18 Stylish Denim Shorts Outfit Ideas

Denim shorts are a timeless wardrobe staple. They’re versatile, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish, making them the perfect go-to for casual outings.

In fact, they can also be excellent for dressing up and creating a chic and fashionable look. However, choosing what to pair with denim shorts can often be a bit of a challenge.

Therefore, this article is dedicated to providing you with 18 stylish denim shorts outfit ideas that will inspire and help you create your unique looks.

Related: 16 Stylish Wide Leg Pants Outfit Ideas

What to Wear with Denim Shorts? 18 Outfit Ideas

Let’s not waste any time and dive right into the outfit ideas. Here are 15 stylish ways to wear denim shorts:

1- Basic Tee and Denim Shorts

The classic combo that never goes out of style.

I want you to pair a plain white or black t-shirt with your favorite denim shorts for an effortless yet stylish look.

2- Denim-on-Denim Look  

For a bold and trendy statement, try pairing your denim shorts with a matching denim jacket or chambray shirt.

You can opt for contrasting washes to add dimension to your outfit or keep it monochromatic for a streamlined look. For a polished finish, complete the ensemble with white sneakers or ankle boots.  

3- Crop Top and High-Waisted Denim Shorts

High-waisted denim shorts paired with a crop top are a classic summer look that never fails.

You can choose from a variety of crop tops, whether it’s a basic tank, graphic tee, or off-shoulder style. This combination is perfect for showing off your waist and creating an hourglass figure.

4- Oversized Shirt and Denim Shorts

For a relaxed and effortlessly cool look, pair your denim shorts with an oversized button-down shirt.

This outfit works well for both beach days and casual city outings. You can keep it simple with a plain white or striped shirt or opt for something more fun like a printed or tie-dye one.

5- Blouse and Denim Shorts

Elevate your denim shorts by pairing them with a blouse.

In my experience, a flowy, lightweight top in a bright color or floral print looks lovely with denim shorts. For a dressier feel, complete the outfit with sandals or heels.

6- Tank Top and Denim Shorts

For a casual yet stylish summer outfit, pair your denim shorts with a tank top.

You can choose from basic solid colors or fun patterns and prints. This combo is perfect for running errands, going to the beach, or having a picnic in the park.

7- Blazer and Denim Shorts

Make a fashion statement by pairing your denim shorts with a blazer.

This unexpected combination creates a chic and sophisticated look that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For added style and comfort, complete the outfit with heels or sneakers.

8- Off-Shoulder Top and Denim Shorts  

Show off your shoulders by pairing an off-shoulder top with your denim shorts.

It won’t make you look overdressed, but it will add a touch of femininity and flair to your outfit. Depending on your personal style, you can choose from flowy or fitted tops.

9- Graphic Tee and Denim Shorts  

For a fun and playful look, pair your denim shorts with a graphic tee.

You can opt for band tees, logo tees, or ones with cute and quirky sayings. This combination is perfect for a casual day out with friends or running errands.

10- Bodysuit and Denim Shorts

Create a sleek and put-together look by pairing your denim shorts with a bodysuit.

Not only does it eliminate the hassle of tucking in a top, but it also accentuates your curves and creates a smooth silhouette. To switch up the look, you can choose from various necklines, such as a v-neck, square neck, or scoop neck.

11- Button-Down Shirt and Denim Shorts 

For a preppy and stylish outfit, pair your denim shorts with a button-down shirt.

You can keep it simple with a white shirt or add some color by opting for a pastel or striped one. For a summery feel, complete the look with sandals or espadrilles.

12- Lace Top and Denim Shorts  

Bring some romance to your outfit by pairing your denim shorts with a lace top.

The delicate fabric adds a feminine touch, making it perfect for date nights or brunch dates. You can choose from various styles such as off-shoulder, cropped, or long-sleeved.

13- Denim Shorts and Kimono

For a bohemian-inspired look, pair your denim shorts with a kimono.

The flowy and lightweight fabric adds dimension to your outfit while keeping you cool in the summer heat. You can choose from various prints and colors to match your style.

14- Oversized Sweater and Denim Shorts 

For those chilly summer evenings, pair your denim shorts with an oversized sweater.

Have you ever heard of the term “sweater weather in summer”? Well, this combination is perfect for just that. You can choose from a variety of knit sweaters, whether it’s solid-colored or patterned, to add some warmth and style to your outfit.

15- Denim Shorts with Long Vest

For a unique and chic look, pair your denim shorts with a long vest.

This outfit option is perfect for transitioning from day to night. You can choose from various colors and fabrics, such as a lightweight cardigan or a structured blazer.

16- Gingham Top and Denim Shorts

Add some texture and pattern to your outfit by pairing your denim shorts with a gingham top.

This classic print is perfect for creating a cute and casual summer outfit. You can choose from various colors, whether it’s traditional black and white or a fun pop of color. Complete the look with sandals or sneakers for a comfortable yet stylish outfit.

17- Crochet Crop Top, Light Wash Denim Shorts

In my opinion, a crochet crop top paired with light-wash denim shorts is the epitome of a bohemian-inspired summer look.

The combination of delicate crochet detailing and breezy denim creates a perfect balance between casual and chic. Finish off the outfit with some statement jewelry and wedges for an effortless yet put-together look.  

18 – Sleeveless Turtleneck, High-Waisted Denim Shorts

A sleeveless turtleneck paired with high-waisted denim shorts is the perfect combination of sophistication and comfort.

This outfit option is versatile and can easily be dressed up or down depending on your accessories. You can add a belt to cinch in your waist or throw on a blazer for a more polished look.

Conclusion

Denim shorts are a timeless wardrobe staple that can be styled in numerous ways to create unique and stylish outfits.

From basic tees to blazers, there are endless options for pairing denim shorts with different tops and layers.

Hopefully, these 18 outfit ideas will inspire you to create your denim shorts look and have fun experimenting with different styles.