5 Ways to Pair This Season’s Hiker Shorts

How to style this easy and casual summer short look.

It’s almost time to start thinking about how to break out our favorite shorts; on the east coast, the chill is slowly but surely leaving the air, and on the west coast it’s already starting to feel closer and closer to summer. Whether you’re here, there, or in between, we’re excited to start styling with one of our favorite new looks: the hiker shorts trend. We’re not talking about the serious ripstop material or waterproof shorts that serious hikers wear, but the women’s shorts inspired by them. You can wear them hiking, if you’re so inclined—but you can also pull on a pair for brunch or a stroll through town, too. Let’s explore hiker shorts.

What Is The Hiker Shorts Trend?

Put your form fitting short shorts back in your drawer and save them for another day. The hiker shorts trend is very different and much more comfortable. Imagine a cross between Bermuda shorts (but with a shorter hem) and actual hiking shorts—roomy through the leg and thighs and easy to move around in. Unlike your favorite daisy dukes or even your trusty bike shorts, you can actually hike in hiking shorts if you want to.

The fashion community has long been inspired by the outdoorsy—albeit in a less practical way (rain repellant, after all, has no place on the runway). Still, you’ll see Sherpa, anoraks, and even hiking boots worn by street style stars around the globe. There’s even a name for it: “Gorpcore,” derived from the popular, high-protein hiking snack gorp, or “good old raisins and peanuts.” 

The hiker shorts trend is about roomy, breathable shorts in varying lengths that can be dressed up or down, depending on your goal.

How To Style Hiker Shorts For Your Body Type

The best news about hiker shorts is that this is a very inclusive style: The forgiving cut not only makes them comfortable, but also very flattering. The a-line shape of hiker shorts embraces curvy hips and thighs as well as thin, long legs.

Our tip: Enhance the natural shape that hiker shorts highlight: Keep shirts (including tanks and tees) tucked in, or try a French tuck so your shape really shows. If you’re opting for a layer on a cool summer night, try a cardigan that hangs open and runs the length of your shorts to add a streamlined silhouette, or a cropped denim jacket to further accentuate your curves.

How To Style The Hiker Shorts Trend

The cut of this style lends itself to a tremendous amount of versatility and fashionable expression. With just one pair of hiker style shorts, you can create endless outfits that go anywhere. Here are a few ideas. 

Dressed Up & Easy

We found your perfect summertime bridal shower/birthday brunch look: Try hiker-style shorts or shorts featuring a similar cut in a bold and popping color (we love this pink—bonus for the feminine tie-belt detail), add a summery top that matches, and top it all off with a fitted white denim jacket. Slip into your favorite heels, add your most sparkling rings, and get going.

Sweet Surf Style

These easy-on shorts are perfect for your next beach day. You can pair a summer-ready style with your favorite bathing suit or bikini. Let your suit act as a top, or try a simple coverup over everything for extra sun coverage. Add your favorite flip flops or flat sandals and take your style to the sand.

Go-Anywhere Easy

These shorts truly can go anywhere, from the office (with heels and a blazer) to the grocery store. When considering how to style the hiker shorts trend for everyday wear, consider them like any other shorts. Add your favorite t-shirt and platform sneakers, or throw on your favorite hoodie and sandals.

Cuffed Hiker Shorts

Marrying the 80s- and 90s- inspired style to the hiker short trend, cuffed hiker shorts add an element of detailing that we love by lending a softened edge to the longer hem. You may even find some with callouts to your favorite cargo pants: large, oversized pockets, or button-loop closures for authenticity.

These easy shorts look just right with either a fitted tee and flip-flops or a tank, long cardigan. and heels. Because they offer a utilitarian look, consider them for your next actual hike—paired with a t-shirt and sturdy boots (plus plenty of bug spray).

Not planning on taking the trails? Add a sweet and feminine top and strappy sandals for a go-anywhere look.