My summer date outfit options just got a whole lot cuter because I added paper bag shorts!
This was a fashion trend I was wary to try, but after some trial and error (and several years of them being super popular), I found the perfect pair of paper bag shorts. Not only are these shorts incredibly flattering (thanks to the tied, cinched waist), but they’re also ridiculously comfortable. They feel more like wearing pajama shorts than anything else, but they’re chic as can be!
Paper bag waists have been prominent throughout fashion history. The style is quite retro, which adds even more appeal to our modern outfits. You can dress the style up or down, and it’s a fit that’s available in everything from pants and shorts to skirts and skorts! If you’re still unsure whether or not this style is for you, I’d recommend giving it a go, and at least trying on a few different pieces to see which ones suit you the very best.
outfit details
shorts c/o Chicwish (currently out of stock. similar) | top | similar jacket | heels | similar necklace | similar handbag
How to Style Paper Bag Shorts for a Summer Date Night
When it comes to date night outfits, I want to look my best and feel confident in what I’m wearing. This means that my ensemble needs to be comfortable, and highlight my favorite assets. After applying my first faux tan of the summer, I knew I wanted to highlight my legs, and these shorts were the perfect option. The cream color made my tan stand out, and the length is short without feeling like I’m exposing too much of myself.
I decided to go for a tried-and-true black and white look, because you really can’t go wrong with these colors. Okay, so the shorts are off-white/cream, but you get the gist. The sleeveless blouse, tucked into the shorts, with a pair of heels gave me an air of elegance, while still keeping me comfortable and cool in the heat of summer. I brought along a denim jacket because it’s always a good idea to have light layers in case of temperature changes throughout the evening.
This is officially my go-to date outfit for the rest of summer! (Oh, and did I mention that my husband loves it too? Total bonus!)
Related Posts
10 Midi Dresses You Didn’t Know You Needed // How to Look Classy in a Denim Skirt // Why You Need a Striped Top in Your Closet
Have you begun experimenting with paper bag shorts and pants yet?
Pin for Later
Anika says
Gorgeous outfit! I absolutely love the shorts, they suit you so well and are perfect for summer ☀
Anika | chaptersofmay.com
Stephanie says
Thank you so much! I don’t know if I’ve ever loved a pair of shorts more. These are just so flattering and comfortable – ooh, and versatile too!
Jennifer Prince says
You’re so TINY that those shorts look amazing on you!! I feel so conscious when I wear anything with a drawstring waist, BUT I love the idea of wearing shorts and pairing it with a denim jacket – I need to do that more often. It’s such a fun look. You’re adorable!
Stephanie says
Paper bag shorts look absolutely wonderful on all shapes and sizes. It’s just a matter of finding the right pair that makes you feel comfortable and confident. You might be pleasantly surprised if you test a few different pieces 🙂
Erin @ Her Heartland Soul says
This is such a chic outfit! I love it!!
Mariah Rickard says
Such a cute outfit! I can’t wait to get to go out to dates again.
Adaleta Avdic says
I’ve tried rocking a few paper bag shorts, and I think since hips are so wide I never seem to get the right fitted look. Your look is cute since they’re snug on the hips but I think my thigh and hip ratio is off for some reason because I always look like I’m in spandex lol!
Stephanie says
I’d suggest trying a few different brands to discover the perfect fit for you! It took me a while to find this pair (and I have ones that are chambray as well), because I also have wider hips, and the shorts would buckle right above my hips and butt. It just took trial and error!
Adaleta Avdic says
I def have to do a bit more trial and error honestly, thanks for the tip!
Caila Quinn says
ooOOoOO Need paper bag shorts in my closet! I totally haven’t worn them in years – love the inspo!
Stephanie says
Yes you definitely do! I’m glad they’re back “in” and there are even more elegant styles available. I felt like for years they weren’t something I could pull off, and now I have a couple pairs that I love!
Rach says
Anything paperbag I’m obsessed with it! This outfit is the perfect date night look. I also love how comfortable those shorts look and I bet they’re so versatile!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Stephanie says
Paper bag is such a stylish, flattering trend – and I hope it sticks around for an extended period of time. It’s pulled from retro fashion, so I’m pretty convinced it’s not going anywhere!
rebecca piersol says
you rae totally rocking these shorts girl! i am very wary of shorts because i have such a short torso that sometimes they look funny. these are totally making me second guess that, though!
xx rebecca // http://www.rebeccapiersol.me
Stephanie says
It’s all about testing different brands and finding the right ones for you. Maybe don’t start with ones that are super high-waisted, and you’ll find some that work better for a shorter torso! 🙂
Kait | Slumber & Scones says
Can you come be my personal stylist? I don’t think I’ve ever been able to wear shorts and make them look this cute! Also that denim jacket is making me look forward to some cooler weather.
Stephanie says
Hehe I’d be honored! 🙂 I’m not a big fan of typical denim shorties, but these make me feel confident and classy, while still being cool enough for the heat of summer. I usually try to have a denim jacket or light cardigan with me at all times, just in case there’s a change in temperature – but I’m with you, I can’t wait for it to cool down again!
Sarah Lindner says
Love the look…so cute and fresh for summer! xoxo, Sarah
Lyanna Soria says
You are looking absolutely gorgeous in that outfit hun! It suits you quite well and I love the shorts and shoes the best.
Becky @ Disney in your Day says
I really like how those shorts look on you! Comfy shorts are a must. I think I may have to try a pair because they just look so light and nice for summer.
Stephanie says
Absolutely! I’m all about comfort. It’s just as important as style, if you ask me. Long gone are the days where I pick something *just* for the way it looks. You should give paper bag waist shorts a try!
Helena Marz says
I love paper bag shorts but don’t have one yet! Love how you styled yours and you look so glam! ❤️
Stephanie says
I highly recommend them. They’re elegant and super comfy. Best of both worlds!
Laura Leigh says
Oh I love this look! You’re right, so effortless but so incredible chic. I have been in a huge flat phase and you’re inspiring me to pull out a pair of heels! Cannot wait for our next date night!
xo Laura Leigh
https://louellareese.com
Stephanie says
There’s something about a pair of heels that just make me feel totally fierce! I stick with block heels, and always try on pairs first to make sure they’re comfortable for an extended period of time. That way, I can wear them on a date and not get to a point where my husband needs to give me a piggy-back ride because of blisters! Haha.
Rachel says
This look!!! I’m obsessed with your shorts, I’ve been dying for a pair like this and these ones are perfect!
Rachel
http://www.hello-her.com
Stephanie says
I can totally see you rocking these shorts! I’m bummed that this *exact* pair is out of stock (they’re only available in pink right now), but I did link a really similar one.
Liz H. says
This outfit is super cute! I’m in love with the shorts. I feel like you could wear them a million different ways Love how you styled them here!
Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
Stephanie says
You really can! I’ve paired them with a bunch of tops in different styles and colors, and I could even see them working with a lovely, long-sleeve bodysuit and booties in the autumn!
Kim Myers says
I LOVE paperbag waists. I think they are so flattering and comfy. I love how you styled this outfit!
xoxo,
Kim
Em says
This outfit is right up my alley! It’s perfect for date night!
Greta Hollar says
This is the cutest date night look! I love the paperboy waist trend.
Melissa Cruz says
Those shorts aren’t only cute, but they are also look very comfy! That’s definitely something I look into during the summer. I currently just have two paper bag shorts, both in black hahaha, so I need more colors in my closet.
Tanvi says
Give me all the shorts. It has been insanely hot and humid, hasn’t it? Love your outfit.
❥ tanvii.com
Ifeoluwa says
I love paper bag anything! I’ve been meaning to get the paper bag pants. They look so put together when you wear them. You look gorgeous
Anna English says
This is a cute look girl. I love being able to throw on a denim jacket at any time! It was such a great addition to my wardrobe a few years ago!
Alice says
Super cute! I love the paper bag trend and how you put this outfit together!
Xo Alice
Amanda says
Such a pretty outfit! Love how you dressed up these shorts, this entire outfit is so chic!
Deborah says
How do you make everything you wear look so effortlessly chic! I so love everything about this outfit!!
Thebusyshelf says
They look so good on you! I don’t like wearing shorts for various reasons, but I would keep the entire outfit except change the shorts for paper-bag pants 🙂 I really like them, although I have wide hips, the emphasis they put on the wait is super flattering