Don’t pick your shorts based on your age. There, I’ve said it. If you don’t read any further, please remember this. Instead, when selecting shorts over 50, think more of your height and body shape. That’s what will give you a look that you’ll love.
But seriously, be open to what looks best for your body type. I know that “at this age” there are lots more issues like spider veins, crepey skin, you name it. (I am dealing with both myself).
Put that aside for the moment and try on all different styles until you find the one that you like best. There are self-tanners and leg makeup that can help you work through that. But, if you’re that uncomfortable, of course, pick a style that makes you feel great. That’s what’s important. I’m here to help you find that.
I’ll go through some styling tips and finish with a bunch of shorts for you to shop. If you just want to shop, you can click here to jump to that section.
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Shorts Over 50: Inseam
Inseam is probably the number one concern when it comes to selected shorts over 50. There are three standard length of shorts:
- Short (2 – 3″ inseam)
- Midrange (3 – 5″ inseam)
- Bermudas (9 – 13″ inseam)
Here’s what I was referring to when I started this post with “don’t pick your shorts based on your age”. Being over 50 doesn’t mean that you have to wear bermudas. But if you’re 6 feet tall, they might be perfect for you.
Midrange shorts are the most universally flattering and they are what I am wearing. When I am shopping for shorts, I look mostly for a 4″ – 5″ inseam. I will wear a 3″ inseam if they are more casual or athletic. If you saw our shorts sets in our latest “How to Wear it at Age”, these striped shorts are actually 3″. I do think they look longer though! I feel comfortable wearing these and don’t feel that they are too short.
Shorter shorts are best for petite women because it will make their legs look longer. As I mentioned, taller women can pull off the bermuda short better than most. For me personally, bermudas just don’t look good on me. I am only 5’3″ and they make me look even shorter.
Find The Right Fit
Shorts seem like an easy purchase but there really is more the picking the right pair. Making sure that they are not too big or too small is key. Leg opening is one of the key factors. You don’t want them tight against your leg and you also don’t want a really wide opening either.
I prefer shorts with a narrower fit in the legs. Denim fabrics tend to be a little tighter but they also usually have a lot of stretch so they move with you. My denim trouser shorts, above, are about as wide as I wear.
On the flip side, you don’t want them too baggy or loose either. I carry my weight around the middle (thank you menopause) but I have fairly thin legs. So if the leg opening is too wide, they just don’t look polished. You should be able to pinch up to one inch of fabric. Anything greater than that is probably too wide.
As far as body shapes go, if you have an apple-shaped body, you want to avoid drawing attention to your legs and midsection. You’ll want to go with a mid-range or bermuda short. Shorter shorts draw attention to that area.
Pear shapes should look for shorts that balance your top half and helps to slim your legs. Try a bermuda short to see if that works for you.
If you’re looking to highlight your hips or waist, trouser or chino shorts work well. These styles work well for hourglass shapes.
Different fabrics can make a difference as well. Fabrics that are more stiff can be easier to style. A loose shirt can work well with with more tailored shorts, and a more fitted shirt can look good with looser shorts.
Try Them On, Be Particular, Sit in Them!
So, I’ve had some shorts that I love how they look when I am standing, but when I sit down, they can rise up to the middle of my thigh and I am constantly pulling them down. Or, I’ve put at a party and make sure to keep my napkin on my leg.
So, no matter if you’re shopping in store or ordering online, make sure you sit in them before making a final decision. I also recommend checking the rear view of your shorts and bending over as well. You want to make sure that nothing is “hanging out”.
What Shoes Look Best with Shorts Over 50?
I have three go-to shoes that I wear with shorts. My platform sneakers, a nude flat/wedge sandal and a nude kitten heel sandal. This does not include when I wear athletic shorts – for those I stick with a regular sneaker.
I like a platform sneaker as I think it elevates the look a bit, even for a casual, relaxed look. I also prefer a platform over a regular sneaker because I am not that tall. That said, if I am on vacation and going to be walking a lot, my go-to is my On Clouds!
I love a nude shoe with shorts because it continues that elongation of the leg. There are occasions where I will wear a colored shoe if it works with the outfit, but most of the time I like to stick to neutrals. I will wear the kitten heel or wedge for dressier looks and the flats for an everyday look. I don’t recommend high heels or stilettos with sandals – that can get a little vampy!
Ther are some recommended shoes below the shorts.
What if I Don’t Like My Legs?
As I mentioned at the top of this post, spider veins and crepey skin are real issues, especially over 50. Here are my favorite three products that I use to minimize those problem areas.
Shopping for Shorts Over 50
Here are lots of looks for you to shop from, in all different lengths and styles
Midrange Shorts (3 – 5″ Inseam)
Bermuda Shorts (9-13″ Inseam)
Short Shorts (2 – 3″ Inseam)
Sailor Shorts
Denim Shorts (All Inseams)
Shorts Over 50 – Shoe Ideas
Here are some shoe choices to wear with your shorts!
If you liked this post, then you might really enjoy “How to Wear the Latest Jean Trends Over 50”
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