Elevating Bermuda Shorts: A Stylish Transformation

New York Fashion Week has just wrapped, and one piece of clothing that repeatedly graced the showgoers was the humble Bermuda short. Often dismissed as a casual summer staple, these versatile bottoms are making a bold statement as a year-round fashion essential. Cut fashion director Jessica Willis shares her expert tips on how to elevate this trend and seamlessly transition it into the cooler months.

Unlock the Potential of Bermuda Shorts

Embrace the Baggy Silhouette

The key to nailing the Bermuda short look is to embrace the relaxed, oversized silhouette. Willis recommends opting for a pair with a slightly higher waist and a looser, more generous fit. "I like these because the color makes them feel a little more dressy, so you can dress them up or down," she says of the Haikure denim shorts she's styled. The pressed seam detail adds structure and shape, while the soft Japanese denim provides a comfortable, lived-in feel. Sizing up for a more relaxed fit allows you to wear the shorts lower on the waist, creating a flattering, elongating effect.

Elongate Your Torso with a Bodysuit

To balance the proportions and visually lengthen the legs, Willis suggests pairing the Bermuda shorts with a bodysuit or tucked-in top. "I have a shorter torso, so my trick is to wear a bodysuit or tuck in my shirt to elongate my legs," she explains. The tighter, more form-fitting top creates a sleek, streamlined silhouette that accentuates the volume of the shorts. Willis opted for a Toteme bodysuit that doubles as a swimsuit, with a low back and strappy details for a touch of feminine flair.

Elevate with Luxe Accessories

Elevating the Bermuda short look is all about the accessories, according to Willis. "Bolder accessories make the look more dressed up and feminine," she says. She layered on a Toteme cashmere sweater draped over her shoulders, adding a pop of color and a cozy touch as the weather cools. To complete the ensemble, Willis accessorized with a Cartier watch, Tabayer jewelry, and a quilted Chanel bag, creating a cohesive, high-fashion aesthetic.

Finish with Statement Shoes

The final touch to this elevated Bermuda short look is the footwear. Willis chose a pair of Khaite snake-print sandals, which she describes as "a little more interesting than a white shoe." The textured, maximalist design complements the relaxed vibe of the shorts without overpowering the overall look. "It's a minimalist silhouette, but the texture plays against the bag," she explains. Alternatively, you could opt for loafers or ballet flats for a more casual, yet still stylish, approach.

Transitioning Bermuda Shorts into Fall

As the weather turns cooler, Willis suggests pairing the Bermuda shorts with boots that hit just at the calf, creating a streamlined, elongated leg line. "Shorts that hit right below the knee are ideal for elongating the leg," she advises. By layering a cozy sweater or jacket over the bodysuit or tighter top, you can seamlessly transition the Bermuda short look into the fall season, making it a versatile and practical choice for your wardrobe.

Embracing the Bermuda Short Trend

The Bermuda short trend is a testament to the fashion industry's embrace of more relaxed, comfortable silhouettes. Willis encourages embracing this trend, stating, "Grab your shorts as often as you'd grab your Levi's 501s." With the right styling techniques and luxurious accessories, these oversized bottoms can be elevated to new heights, making them a chic and practical choice for any season.