As someone who grew up in Louisiana, lived in Los Angeles for a long time and now lives in North Carolina, I will never be one of those “I don’t wear shorts” people. Shorts are one of the most essential wardrobe items for me. That said, I don’t mess with old shorts. I have the classics and I choose shorts from the lineup of new shorts trends that come out each summer. Do you care to join me later?
May is the time when I really ramp up my shorts shopping, so I thought I’d share a timely edit of what trends are getting the most buzz for summer 2026. There are quite a few shorts styles to choose from this season (in fact, more than in other years), so I had to narrow it down to seven stand-out trends that are already going viral or selling out more and more with each 70-plus-degree day. Scroll through to choose from the fashion-crowd’s favorite shorts colors to the lengths people are gravitating toward—and so much more.
Top Summer 2026 Shorts Trends
1. Bloomers
Bubble shorts are the 2026 version of the trend Bloomers They’re cute, they’re fun, and they’ll make your outfit pop.
shop bloomers
2. Red pull-on shorts
Pull-on shorts have become a wardrobe staple over the past few years, but if you want the most 2026 look, choose a red pair.
buy red pull-on shorts
3. A-Line Shorts
When it comes to mid-thigh and denim shorts, I recommend staying away from fitted pairs and buying A-line styles instead. They’re flattering and timeless.
Buy A-Line Shorts
4. Micro shorts
buy micro shorts
5. Polished Bermuda Shorts
if i’m going to wear Bermuda shorts, they won’t get dirty. Luckily, there’s a new wave of long shorts designed to amp up your outfit in an instant.
Buy Polished Bermuda Shorts
6. Satin Shorts
Keep those satin shorts you bought last year—the trend is still here. While it was all about short lace-trimmed styles last year (which are still good), this year there’s more variety, with taffeta and longer lace-trimmed styles, as well as zippered ones, now in the mix.
buy satin shorts
7. White denim shorts
I said this during Coachella And I’ll say it again — everyone is suddenly wearing white denim shorts, and I’ve noticed that the best pairs are going out of stock.
