5 Stylish Ways French Women Are Wearing Shorts This Summer

Here is how French women style shorts in summer and look sophisticated. A great pair of shorts is the item that probably gets the most use throughout the summer months. And if chosen well, nice tailored shorts paired with blouses, blazers, and chic sandals can look chic and elegant.

In Paris, I think it’s considered acceptable to wear shorts in the city when the weather gets warm (from 25°C or 77°F) and especially during “la canicule” (heat wave). Being French, I feel more comfortable (and safer) wearing bermuda shorts with a tailored finish than skirts or dresses in Paris. And despite still being “shorts,” I think the longer length makes them feel more elevated, less casual, and perfectly work-appropriate.

---

I carefully select and personally love every product featured on Leonce Chenal. If you buy through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Merci for your support <3

Which style of shorts to shop for?

Shorts can be the perfect summer wardrobe staple for staying cool, comfortable, and chic in the heat. However, here, I’m not talking about any kind of shorts. Forget about too-short shorts, baggy, running, cyclist, biker, or distressed denim shorts (and maybe even denim shorts in general, except white ones).

Instead, consider opting for long and tailored shorts or bermuda in high-quality, breathable fabrics (like cotton, linen, or silk) that hit the knee or fall just above. They can be close-fitting but not too tight.

If you’re after office-appropriate shorts, consider opting for these (cut in twill blended with linen, it also exists ). Or, if you’re looking for perfect tailored shorts, check out these très chic . For linen, opt for these beautiful polished or these . I also love these beautiful , perfect to wear with a tucked-in blouse.

How do French women style shorts?

French women definitely know how to make this casual item look chic and sophisticated: they keep it dressy. Give your favorite tailored shorts a sophisticated spin by pairing them with a nice pair of espadrilles (I love these ) or chic flat sandals like these or . Add an oversized white or blue shirt (in cotton-poplin or linen) cinched at the waist and a statement belt. Et voilà!

Keep scrolling below for more outfit inspiration and to find out how French women style shorts and look effortlessly chic.

1. Matching Set + Leather Sandals

For the perfect office-appropriate outfit to wear during the hottest days, consider opting for these with the matching jacket. Elevate this look with a crisp cotton blouse and these chic .

2. Blue Shirt + Strappy Sandals

I love the simplicity of the look! Just pair your favorite white shorts with a blue tucked-in cotton-poplin shirt like this beautiful and chic strappy sandals (I love these ).

3. Breton Stripes + Espadrilles

This is the perfect summer look to wander the cobblestone streets of the South of France. Wear your favorite marinière (mine is the Sézane Colette marinière) with chic white and . If you prefer the comfort of flats I recommend these beautiful K Jacques St Tropez Epicure sandals.

4. Lavallière Blouse + Two-tone Pumps

This chic outfit is perfect for a summer soirée! Wear these fabulous with a chic and these Porte & Paire two-tone pumps. Très chic!

5. Linen Blazer + Suede Slippers

I absolutely adore this look, which is perfectly work-appropriate! Pair these with this beautiful linen blazer. Add a white t-shirt underneath like this Totême linen-jersey T-shirt and these .