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Instead of Shorts? Wear These 11 Alternatives

casual
Comments(76)
June 9, 2025

Hello and welcome to Dressed for My Day, where my goal is to inspire and help women like you and me to dress beautifully and appropriately for our unique days so we can engage graciously with those around us and influence them well. You’ve come across one of my most popular posts that I update every year when I notice women are beginning to look for shorts alternatives. I’m sharing some great ideas for what to wear instead of shorts this spring and summer.

I get it. You still want to look summer fresh, feel cool and be comfortable, but you just don’t want to wear shorts. Or maybe you just don’t want to wear shorts all the time, every day. Fortunately there are a number of fashionable, comfortable and easy-to-wear alternatives to shorts. And my list may not be exhaustive, but I think every woman will find at least a few choices that suit.

Before we start, let me explain how I selected these styles. I’m not including things like slacks or dressy dresses. Instead, these options are distinctly casual alternatives. A few of them are more chic than others, but they’re all appropriate for things like going to a church picnic, running errands, rooting on the home team, entertaining in your backyard or playing with the grandkids. These are truly the non-shorts pieces you can wear when others are wearing shorts. Make sense? Perfect!

Updated Post – 06/09/2025

This is a popular post that I update every year. Several of the photos are from one, two and three years back. Since I haven’t yet worn or modeled all of these options this year, it serves me best to keep using the old photos in some instances. But I’ve updated all of the links and shopping widgets as of the date above. And the Style Boards are brand new in 2025!

How to Shop Here: To shop the items I feature, just click on the words in the captions of photos, the highlighted words in my text or the images in the shopping widgets I sometimes include. When you shop through my links I potentially earn a commission on your purchases, but at no additional cost to you. Thank you so much for supporting my work here by shopping my links. Items that have been gifted to me by the associated brand are indicated with “c/o”.

Check Out My Latest Video on the Topic!

I’ll be posting a wide range of summer outfit ideas in the coming weeks, but in May, 2025, I shared 9 Summer Outfit Ideas. Granted, there is one shorts outfit, but you’ll find 8 other non-shorts outfit formulas that will keep you looking stylish all summer long. Subscribe to my channel, hit the little bell for notifications and watch for more summer style inspiration for the woman over 50 throughout the warm months.

Summer Blue Jeans

Let’s get jeans out of the way. They’re not my favorite choice because they can be hot. But if you are going out on a cool evening you will look summery fresh in lightweight or ankle length jeans with sandals.

Light Wash Jeans & Cheerful Print Shirt
relaxed trouser jeans (TTS; wearing 10) // button-up shirt (TTS; wearing medium) // jacquard crewneck pullover (TTS) // sunglasses // espadrille sandals // raffia hoop earrings // raffia buckle leather belt

The jeans outfit above is from Talbots. They’re a great source for summer styles for women of any age. They carry a wide range of sizes in misses, petite, plus and plus petite fits.

Upgrade Your Daily Summer Outfits with Affordable Finds from Chico's
blue pearl high rise wide cropped jeans (C/O) // slub knit blazer in alabaster (C/O) // tank (similar tank from Chico’s) Sioux Flower T-Strap Sandals (C/O) // necklace (not Chico’s) // earrings // chain bracelet // paperclip bracelet // clutch

Remember, the heat is on! So keep your jeans on the cooler side by wearing either light weight options or ankle length. Ideally, ankle length jeans should hit right at the ankle bone or up to an inch above. And wide leg and straight leg silhouettes are more on trend than those that fit too close to the body.

Throughout the post I’m sharing style inspiration boards with additional ideas for how to style my suggested shorts alternatives. You can shop the shorts alternative and the other pieces through the captions under each style board. And as of June 9, 2025, these items were in stock.

light wash Jeans
light wash slim wide-leg ankle jeans // linen t-shirt // sandals // straw tote // bandana // earrings // beaded necklace // sand dollar necklace // bracelet // belt // book

I’ve created shopping widgets for each of my shorts alternatives to wear instead of shorts. These are current as of 6/9/25. I’ve got a wide range of prices and a large assortment of retailers included, and I am indicating those in the shopping widget. But please remember, that sale prices don’t show up in the shopping widget, so click through for the current price.

White Jeans

Of course, I’m a big fan of white jeans in the spring and summer. And right now off white jeans are popular, too. You can dress either up or down.

similar ivory jeans // sandals // handbag // blouse not available

You can create really sporty looks with your white jeans or go ultra feminine. They’re just so versatile.

white Jeans
white jeans // t-shirt // sandals // belt // tote bag // necklace // bracelet cuff // bandana to tie onto your bag // book

This year looser fit jeans are trending and these can be quite comfortable for the warm days since they don’t cling to you like skinny jeans. And of course you can also top those white jeans with a simple tee and wear sneakers.

I’ve gathered a few of my favorite white jeans in the shopping widget below.

Polyester/Spandex Athleisure Pants

Joggers became very popular several years ago when we were all staying home for an extended period of time. But these super comfortable, casual pants are less in vogue now that we are again dressing up just a bit more. And when I do see them, they’re not the tapered, full legs with the band at the bottom.

Endless high rise pants // Venna Casual Mary Jane Flats // t-shirt option // denim jacket

Instead the trend is to wear a more sleek silhouette or a straight, cropped look. The current trending pants are constructed in moisture-wicking polyester blends (often in recycled polyesters) with Spandex so that they are perfect for travel or active days.

POLYESTER KNIT PANTS
endless cargo pants // linen jersey tee // sneakers // crossbody belt bag // water bottle // necklace // earrings

Wondering what shoes to wear with your knit athleisure pants? Really, the sky’s the limit. You can wear feminine sandals and other shoes like these knit upper Mary Janes (shown above). Or opt for more sporty sandals, such as these Tevas or these Birkenstocks (similar for less). But you can of course wear sneakers or flip flops, too. Here are some similar pants to consider.

Casual Skirt

If you’re wanting more coverage of your legs but still want to keep cool, a midi skirt is a pretty choice. But if you’re just wanting to wear something besides shorts and don’t mind baring your legs, a shorter skirt will be cool and fun. Just add a simple tee and sweet sandals or even sneakers for a casual vibe.

Favorite Summer Outfit Formula with a Skirt
linen collared top // crochet and leather handbag // linen and rayon blend pull-on skirt // leather crisscross slides // Georgia beaded bracelet set (C/O) // Georgia beaded bracelet (C/O) // Meeghan shell earrings (C/O) // coin necklace

I love a linen skirt this time of year. But this year skirts are so on trend, so you’ll find a wide assortment of selections in cotton, silk and beautiful blends, too. Really all lengths and styles are looking fresh and contemporary this summer, so choose skirts that work best for your body type and lifestyle.

Arwen skirt from VB
skirt no longer available (similar from same brand) // similar silk shirt // sandals

Denim skirts can be a little heavy when it gets really hot, but they are definitely still trending this year. I’m getting this beautiful light wash denim skirt in today and can’t wait to style it with this shirt.

Denim Skirt Instead of Shorts
denim skirt // tank top // shirt // sandals // shoulder bag // hand cream // necklace // earrings

I’ve gathered lots of pretty, fresh skirts for 2025 in the shopping widget below.

Summery Dress

If you want even more coverage of your legs, but still want the feminine appeal of a skirt, choose a maxi length skirt or dress. You’ll be cool and stylish. Add sandals or sneakers, depending on the occasion.

Wear Jewelry with Your Summer Dress
Mirabella Dress (C/O) // sandals

There are so many styles of dresses to choose from these days. Look for something in a natural fiber fabric like cotton, linen or even silk. If you just want an option other than shorts, but don’t mind baring your legs, choose a shorter dress for comfort and style.

CASUAL DRESS
tank dress // racerback bra // sandals // scarf // wicker bag // knit jacket // necklace // earrings

Make sure you have the right bra to wear with your dress. Many sleeveless dresses look best with a racerback bra like the one shown above.

French terry t-shirt dress (c/o) // Tretorn sneakers

You can wear pretty sandals or more casual sneakers with your summer dresses. Choose the option that fits the activities of the day.

cotton dress
cotton poplin dress // bandana // wicker tote // sandals // necklace // earrings // bangles (sold separately) // sunglasses

I’ve gathered a number of dresses in a variety of styles in the shopping widget below.

Check out the video below for tips on How to Look Stylish in Your Summer Dresses.

Barrel or Lantern Pants & Jeans

Personally, I’m loving the new fuller leg silhouettes that are definitely trending right now. And I do believe that every woman can weal a fuller leg pant of some sort. The barrel or lantern silhouette may just be the most friendly option because the tapered calf to ankle is quite flattering.

What to Wear for a Day with the Grandkids in Spring
utility barrel pants (TTS) // graphic t-shirt in the pattern sketched (TTS) (use code KAY15 for 15% off) //  similar loafer option at a more economical price  // necklace // large hoop earrings // small huggie earrings // small link bracelet // larger paperclip bracelet

These slightly cropped pants are very cool and lightweight, so they’re a great option for summer. I’m finding many other similar pants for you to check out. You’ll find some options, like the ones above, that are a little slimmer, and others that are fuller. Select the style that works best for your body type.

barrel pants // shirt // sandals // shoulder bag // necklace // earrings // bracelets (sold separately) // sunglasses

Remember, these are all meant to be casual alternatives to shorts, so don’t be afraid to have a little fun with your outfits. Every outfit doesn’t have to be slimming or elongating or chic. Sometimes you just want to be cool and comfortable and casual.

I’ve filled a shopping widget with these and other options. I’d look for lantern or barrel (or cigar or balloon!) pants in lightweight fabrics that will have a nice, casual drape for the summer.

Silk or Silky Drawstring Pants

This year I’m seeing so many beautiful silk, flowy drawstring pants in beautiful, exotic prints. These billowy pants look elevated, sophisticated and so classy. They’re the perfect alternative to shorts on your summer beach vacation when you’re going out to dinner. But I also think they’re nice for a date night or entertaining in your home, especially for a patio brunch or girls’ night.

the Trending Polo Top
 ribbed polo sweater // wide leg pull on pants // leather sandals // bamboo handle woven tote // earrings

I personally don’t own any silk drawstring pants. But I do have these silky wide leg pull on pants with a black background and ivory daisies. They’re marked down and still available in a wide range of sizes. So your pants don’t have to be genuine silk to still look on trend and gorgeous. But oh my, the silk ones are so beautiful.

block print pants // tank top // linen vest // leather flip flops // clutch // heeled sandals // necklace // earrings

I gathered more silk or silky gathered pants here. Keep in mind that, because some of them are in fact silk, prices vary a good bit.

Cotton and Cotton Blend Ankle Pants

For simple days out shopping, running errands or maybe even meeting a friend for lunch, you can’t beat a simple pair of cotton twill pants with a favorite top in a color that flatters.

polo top // twill pants // necklace // earrings // bracelet // sandals // handbag // belt // see the original blog post for details

To keep this traditional look modern, choose cotton or cotton blend pants in a modern silhouette. So choose straight or wide legs with a mid to high rise. Look for pants in an ankle length for the summer. That means they should hit at the ankle bone or up to one and a half inches above. Wear them with sandals and accessorize for the day.

relaxed straight leg twill pants // cotton gauze shirt // shoulder bag // sneakers // necklace // earrings

Here is a wide selection of cotton twill pants from you to choose from. Keep in mind that many of these come in additional color options, so click through for details.

Linen Pants

A few summers ago I fell in love with linen. And I plan to live in my wide assortment of linen pants this summer. That’s one of the nice things about linen – it doesn’t go out of style. Even if you purchase linen pants in some of the newer fuller silhouettes, I expect them to look stylish for years. I think that’s simply because linen is its own breed of clothing. It is quite unique.

How to Wear Black Linen Trousers for Spring and Summer
 white tee not available//  linen way-high® drape pants (TTS) // The Everlane Day Crossover Sandal in Sienna Brown // Veronica Beard Goody Bag // cognac belt //  Levi’s denim jacket //  See the original post.

The linen pants above are slightly dressier than others that I own simply because they have a button and zip fly. But they still have the wonderful casual vibe of soft, breathable linen. Pair them with a basic tee like I did above for a casual look. Or wear them with a silk blouse for the office. Here’s another way to wear more tailored linen pants this summer.

the first way to work my favorite summer outfit formula
wide-leg crop pants // white tank (more economical option) // sandals // similar belt //organic handkerchief linen high collar jacket // clutch // earrings // coin necklace // paperclip bracelet // link bracelet

Of course I also love my less structured linen pants. And these are perfect for casual wear.

linen button front shirt// perfect reversible tank top // cropped linen pants// crochet leather handbag // sandals // earrings// necklace// stone bracelet // gold bangle bracelet

And my Frank & Eileen Wexford linen pants are favorites, too. I have them in several colors and I wear them very frequently throughout the summer.

Linen from Frank and eileen
Wexford linen pants

Another favorite source for great linen pants is Eileen Fisher. I have these lantern style linen pants in several neutrals and colors. And this year I added this fun chartreuse green wide leg ankle pants to my wardrobe. They also come in a bold sangria pink.

wide leg ankle pants // linen shirt

You might want to check out my video 6 Linen Essentials for Spring for more outfit inspiration. I’ll share more videos with linen pants and other pieces throughout the summer, so subscribe to my channel.

What about the wrinkles? Really, you just have to get past that. But I’ve also noticed that linen isn’t wrinkling the way it used to. I think the quality is higher and the technology is better. And many brands produce linen/cotton blends that really hold their shape nicely and don’t even need to be ironed. And the more you wear and launder your linen pieces, they soften and wrinkle even less.

Cool Girl Summer Outfit Formula
linen drawstring pants // graphic tee no longer available – similar option // twill jacket // sandals // straw tote // earrings // chain link bracelet // smaller chain link bracelet

You can find linen pants at a variety of price points. But as someone who purchased a lot of it in the last several years I can tell you that there is indeed a difference in quality. So I suggest buying the best quality you can afford.

Cotton Gauze Pants

I know that some readers do not like the wrinkles that come with linen. In recent years a fun alternative has surfaced: cotton gauze pants. These lightweight, easy-breezy pants have the wrinkles built in, of course. And while I do not find them to be as cool as linen, they are quite comfortable and equally attractive.

Gatlin Slide Sandals
Outfit no longer available

You can wear gauze pants very similarly to how you style linen pants, too. Wear a simple tee or button-up shirt and add your favorite sandals.

gauze pants // linen tee // flip flops // market tote // bandana // necklace // earrings

Skorts

I realize that if you don’t want to bare your legs, this isn’t really a viable option. But if you’re just looking for a variety of things to wear instead of shorts, a skort is a fun and sporty alternative. And of course they’re especially appropriate for activities such as golf, tennis or hiking.

skort and tank
crinkle weave jacket (c/o) // contour stretch ribbed tank (c/o) // crinkle weave skort (c/o) // Tretorn sneakers

And right now tennis style skorts especially are on trend. We’re finding skorts suitable for the court and the course, but you can wear them all day long, too,

Spartina 449 outfit
half-zip top // skort

I collected skorts from a number of favorite retailers in the shopping widget below.

Well there you have it! Eleven alternatives to wear instead of shorts this summer. Which do you enjoy wearing already? And which will you consider adding to your summer line-up?

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You might be interested in this video from last summer, too. I’ve got lots of ideas – besides shorts! – for looking chic in the heat!

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Blessed for My Day

Today I pray that you, dear reader, would know how much you are loved and accepted by the One who truly matters. The One who gets the final say has already professed His love to you. His love never fails. And it’s deeper, wider and more prevailing than you can ever imagine.

Does that matter to you? It should. The more you experience the fullness of Christ’s love for you, the healthier you will be in mind and heart and soul. When we are filled with the love of God we are then able to love others without strings and without unrealistic expectations. Allow God’s love to fill you today so that you can pour into others’ lives freely.

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. ~ Ephesians 3:17-19

xoxo, Kay
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76 thoughts on “Instead of Shorts? Wear These 11 Alternatives

  1. Thank you for all you do especially your daily devotional! You have beautiful style and the love of Jesus radiates through your smile! Praying you get to feeling better today.

  2. Kay, I am so sorry that you are not feeling good today. I pray that you will feel much better tomorrow. You shared some great options for us today. Fabulous DFMD!

  3. So sorry you’re not feeling well today Kay. Praying you bounce back quickly. I love wearing skorts more than shorts. They can be dressed down or elevated depending on the top and shoes you wear with them. Plus they’re cool, comfortable and modest. I used to buy cheap reading glasses and sunglasses many years ago until I decided quality was essential to take good care of my eyesight. I have 3 pair of reading glasses I enjoy changing out with whatever outfit I’m wearing for the day. And in sunglasses I have 2 pair of Maui Jim’s that I love. Once you buy quality eyewear, you’ll never go back to budget choices again, plus they hold up for years, so in the long run, you actually get much better value cost per wear.

    1. I’m with you on the reading and sunglasses. Especially the reading glasses, since I have them on so often…including when I’m standing in front of a group of people speaking. That’s when I realized how important it was to not slap on some ugly reading glasses! Thanks for sharing!!

  4. I am on my way to the Loft to pick up the blue flower print shift dress! I have been obsessing over it since you first wore it. When you featured it again today I clicked under your picture and found it on sale with another 40% off and bought it.
    I hope it fits I am getting a regular XS. My closet is overflowing with new things from The Loft.

      1. I like the dress! And I just clicked on your original Post for that dress. In the shopping widget you have a pair of Treasure & Bond Sannibel Leopard Sandals. So I just bought those at Nordstrom through your widget. Now I really must start saving HaHaHa!

  5. I appreciate this post as I no longer wear shorts. This gives me options that accommodate my age and pear-shaped body. I personally enjoy wearing cute cotton skirts with tees or tank tops during the hot summer days…so much cooler than capris. Thank you for your positive posts and Scriptural truths!
    Anita

  6. You inspire me. I have wanted to update my wardrobe for awhile now. It is hard to know what to buy because of what is out there that is not really age appropriate. Thank you for your style and grace.

  7. I would like a post on what to wear when you can’t wear pants. At all. Ever. I’d rather not say why but it’s a medical problem. Thanks.

  8. During the hot humid deep south summer, I wear shorts all the time at home and (depending on the length…) will wear them on a grocery run, but I love skorts! Wearing a skort makes me feel a bit more covered up than a pair of shorts and a tad less casual. I really like cropped pants – yes, just showing that tiny bit of ankle does make me feel cooler! Planning to buy linen crops this summer and would loooove some “long enough” linen shorts. Thanks for keeping us current!!

  9. Hi Kay! I’ve recently started subscribing to your emails and your channel. I get so much inspiration from your insight and photos of your lovely outfits. I was happy to see the lantern pants. I purchased some recently thinking they were straight leg linen pants and not being allowed to try them on in the store. I was surprised when I got home and tried them on, not knowing what to think of this silhouette. Now that I know they are a “thing,” I think they’re very cute and comfy!☺️ Thank you!

    1. Hi Anne. Welcome to Dressed for My Day and thanks so much for subscribing. Yes! Those lantern pants are just so fun to wear. I wore some yesterday. They feel great and look super “cool” ?and modern. Enjoy!

  10. Kay, I love your posts! I’ve gotten my sister hooked on DFMD.
    Hope you are feeling better. I’m sure you are exhausted from moving.

  11. Kay, thank you for publishing this post again with some updated options for us! I actually ordered the Girlfriend Utility Joggers with Washwell from Gap after I saw them in your post. I am going to check out the High Rise Barrel Pants from Gap, since I am interested in trying that style pant in an economical way. While I would like to have one casual maxi dress in my closet, I have not had any luck finding one that I love when I put it on, so I’m just sticking with lightweight pants. For anyone that would like to try an economical pair of linen blend pants, I highly recommend Old Navy. I have a pair in light grey and flax that I am very pleased with. I hope that you’ve had an awesome day!

  12. Excellent suggestions, I buy linen jogger/pants from Old Navy. I’m pretty hard on summer clothes so if these get ruined I don’t feel so bad. On my summer wish list I have a linen wrap skirt from Etsy. It seems this could be dressed up or down and it hits below the knee for more coverage. On a negative note, I’m in camp no pedal pushers pleas.

  13. Kay, I enjoyed reading your suggestions. I am curious where you got the shoes in your first picture. They are a taupe colored sandal. You are wearing them with a pink cardigan and beige linen looking pants. The shoes look very comfortable.
    Thanks,
    Lori

  14. I’m wearing the casual knit “t-shirt” dresses, a denim skirt, and a knee-length camo cargo skirt as shorts alternatives. I like poplin cargo capris that are very light and breathable, and have roll tabs or drawstrings at the bottom so the length can be adjusted. They may not be the most fashion-forward item but when it’s over 90 degrees who cares! I also like wide-leg palazzo pants in gauzy cotton or lightweight cotton/modal blend.

  15. A question about your linen pants. Do you wash them or dry clean them? I have one pair that are hand-me-downs but I like them. I dry-cleaned them after I received them, and I have them in the laundry basket right now–and am debating about whether or not to wash them! They are lined. The tag says they can be hand-washed or dry cleaned. Your suggestions?

    1. Hmm. I wash mine so rarely, I can’t remember. Ha! I really follow labels though. So unless it says dry clean only I almost always wash myself. I would definitely use cold water and a gentle cycle. And I’d definitely hang or lay flat to dry.

      1. Thanks, Kay! I like those suggstions. I, too, like to wash when possible instead of dry-clean, and hang to dry. I’d do that! And if I think of it, I’ll let you know how it comes out. 🙂

  16. I love all your ideas on how to look stylish. I love all the scripture. My husband is a pastor also. My issue is I am heavier on my top part. So this is hard to buy button down tops. Any alternatives.

  17. Just found your website. Love the fact that you are a Christian, me too!!! Like the fact that you are into alternative dressing for older women (or any age for that matter). I don’t wear shorts but like flowing pants and mid-skirts for summer for work.

  18. Kay-Loved this post on what to wear instead of shorts during the summer. You look wonderful in all your suggestions-you have a great figure and definitely wear just about anything and look good. On
    the other hand, I am 74, petite and a little bit overweight. I could get away with most of the fun looks you highlighted, but definitely do not want to wear shorts. I have varicose veins and my legs looK
    awful! I am hopeful I would be able to find similar items even tho I could not afford to buy at Talbots. I’m so glad I looked at your post on fresh summer wear items!

  19. Kay, this post made me excited for my summer wardrobe! If only the good vibes would melt some of this stubborn snow. I think it’s so important to revisit what we already have in our closets so when we add new pieces they work with the old. Clearly a lot of thought and effort went in to creating these looks, saving your devoted followers lots of time and money. Blessings to you and your talented team for what you do!

    1. Thanks so much Krys, I’ll definitely pass that on to Holly who created these style boards. She worked hard on them, and I’m so grateful.

  20. I love dresses in the summer, but everything seems to be sleeves. I’m always disappointed by that. I want short sleeves so I can be completely comfortable.

  21. I like to wear dresses, skirts and especially skorts during summer. My thighs aren’t as slim as they used to be (!!!) so I always wear jockey brand boy shorts under a dress or skirt. I especially enjoy skorts – I think they look a bit more polished than shorts on a “mature” woman! Would like to add some linen pants to my summer wardrobe but haven’t had luck finding any that looked quite right in years past. Will try again this year. You always look so cute in your linen pants!

  22. What a great post! I love the style boards. They are an awesome resource and add so much to your suggestions. Thank you! I appreciate your lovely posts and videos for women who want to stay current and stylish as they age.

  23. Where can I buy the light blue and white stripe, waist tie, flowy capris on your post? I love them for summer!

    1. Hmm. I’m not sure which pants you’re referring to? I had some like that on here before, but they’re gone. They were from several years ago. If something is available I always share a link to it.

  24. Hannah is so gorgeous 💞What a Joy and Blessing for you all , Thank you for sharing . Loved the ‘No Shorts’ looks lots of lovely Summer vibes going on🌞🌻Loved your Devotional too ♥️

  25. Kay,

    Another great post!
    Thank you for sharing a photo of your adorable granddaughter Hannah!
    All the best to you and your family!

  26. Alot of style ideas. I have found I cannot wear jeans in the Summer unless it is cooler evening and then I might do white jeans. Too bad pedal pushers coming back. Not that flattering on most women. Love linen pants or ankle length if not too hot. I have found for me the best is a skirt or dress, midi or shorter is the coolest when it is hot. For the little jacket from J Jill does it run large as most of their items, or maybe you didn’t purchase it.? It is cute. Nice BFMD.

  27. Your little Hannah is beautiful and she looks very happy to be with her grandma…aren’t grandchildren just the best 💕. P.S. Thank you for the blog post, loved it and will most definitely use it….have fun, fun, fun, with that little treasure. Linda

  28. Awe! Your granddaughter steals the show! What a cute,happy little baby! Hate her mom is not feeling well but hopefully she is doing a little better today? Know you are enjoying every moment with them.🥰 You have us some get outfit inspirations to look over. When I am unsure what to wear I pop on and look thru your post and always find something great to pull together. Thank you Kay for all you do !

  29. So sweet. That little dress reminds me of one I sewed in high school (1970 graduate).
    Glad you are getting to enjoy her and her parents.

  30. I love Tencel denim jeans for summer. The fabric is so lightweight but has the look of heavier jeans. I also found a denim skirt in Tencel.. I live in Northern California but it gets so hot in the summer that they call the area the Thermalands. If you run across Tencel items, it would be a great to feature it as an alternative cool fabric like linen. I am always on the hunt for new Tencel items and they are often hard to find.

  31. Hi Kay! Your granddaughter is precious. How blessed you are to have the time with her. I’m sure you are enjoying every second. Thanks for this extensive post on alternatives to shorts. It’s great that you put the widgets below each category with items that are available now. I live in a very hot summer climate. I gravitate toward skirts and dresses because they are overall cooler than anything else I put on. I still do wear shorts though!

  32. Kay, how precious your Hannah is! And that smile – priceless!
    I enjoyed the alternatives to shorts. I want some white pants that are elasticized in the waist. Think you had several for me to try! Thanks!

  33. I have the patchwork skirt and I loved it. I was afraid it was out of date, but I’m going to style it with your ideas and give it a go!

    Thanks, Kay

    Oh, and your grandbaby is ADORABLE! Congratulations!

  34. Thank you for the good ideas. I don’t like to wear shorts because of my veins. I used to wear capris because of that. Once I saw how short my legs look in photos I got rid of them and will never wear them again. Last year was so hot that I threw all vanity aside and wore longer shorts. Linen and linen blend pants are my choice of pants in summer. I’m glad wide leg pants are in style. They’re so much cooler. Your grandbaby is adorable. I hope you get better.

  35. Your granddaughter is precious! Such a cute smile. This was a great post of wonderful options! Thank you so much!💜💜💜

  36. Kay,

    While I love wearing shorts, I really like a lot of your alternative options. The only ones I cannot work with – wide leg slacks of any sort, including those lantern type ones. They just swallow me whole. I stick to trimmer silhouettes. And yes this is a popular post… I read it much earlier today (before work), but when I came back to read it again late this afternoon, there were quite a number of comments!

  37. Thank you for all the work you put into this post — so helpful and comprehensive. You are also so right about the change during and after COVID. Before COVID, I would never have worn pull-on pants or joggers (unless jugging). Since COVID, though, I admit to wearing both. Wearing wide-leg, loose pants in the summer is such a great alternative to shorts — and I can avoid belts. I laughed about the pedal pushers: the only thing that I can think to do in them is garden because they might keep my knees clean. The Style Boards are so helpful — really loving that Quince leather bag.

  38. This morning I was in such a hurry finish up your blog and to get to Bible study, I forgot to tell you how beautiful you’re granddaughter is.
    Baby are such blessings.

  39. For casual non-shorts looks in the summer, white jeans, midi/maxi skirts, and dresses of all lengths, those would be my go-to choices. Oh and I did try that slub blazer from Chico’s (you have it linked in one of your summer blue jeans photos). Super lightweight, perfect for warm weather. I loved the fit through the body (soft structure, but forgiving) and the color was beautiful (Seaport), but alas, it is too long for a petite woman, and it can’t be altered due to how the pockets are structured. So I had to return it. Just thought some of your petite readers might appreciate that information. If you’re not petite, that blazer is a serious win!

    1. Thanks for sharing, Carolyn. I’m sorry the blazer didn’t work out for your size. It’s a shame they didn’t carry a petite. But thanks for sharing your positive review.

      1. You’re welcome, it’s a great blazer. I’m sure many of your readers will love it! But for sure, when something can’t be altered due to construction, I wish they offered a petite version. 🙂

  40. Nice options of outfits for Summer instead of shorts. Of course, my favorites are linen pieces and dresses or skirts. So much cooler in the heat. Thank you for reminding meus that Jesus loves more than anyone. Have a blessed day.

  41. I love all the options you give here. My goal is to try barrel pants, something I have not tried yet. Thank you for your reflection, too.

    1. Ooh! I bet you would love the ones I showed in today’s YouTube video. They work so nicely. Thanks for dropping in today!

  42. I’m wondering about crop pants (maybe called capris?). I just purchased a pair of khaki ones at Talbots a few weeks ago. They fall between the ankle and knee. I didn’t see any in this post as an alternative to shorts. Now I’m wondering if I should return them. They still have the tags on.

    1. So yes, there are basically several different things here. I shared ankle length pants and jeans because I feel like they’re modern and a good option for most women over 50. But you can go shorter, say two to three inches above the ankle bone for a crop length, or mid-calf to just under the knee for a Capri. But I suggest you beware of pants that end at your widest part of your calf. They’re going to emphasize that wideness (unless you’re thin, then go for it!). Also Capris are really hard to work with to create nice proportions. But it can be done with a high waist and a more cropped length tee or shirt. Finally, Capris can look a little old-fashioned on women over 50, but they’re actually supposedly back in style. I gave them a go again a few years ago, but I just didn’t feel comfortable recommending them this time around. People tend to have strong feelings about Capris (against them mostly), and there are so many other more current options to recommend. But if you love them and enjoy wearing them, then wear them with confidence. If anyone questions you, tell them they actually are back in style.

  43. Thank you for this post. I ordered the cotton pant with the tie front waist from Wit n Wisdom. Just what I need and the Wit n Wisdom denim fits me good so hope these do too. I ordered two sizes to be safe. I’ll wear shorts but not loving my legs, so feel most comfortable in light weight pants or dresses.

    1. Ooh! I almost ordered those myself because they look so good. But alas, I decided I did not need one more pant. But let me know how they work for you. I’d really like to know. And be sure to tell me how the sizing is. I just may order some after all.

  44. Hi Kay,
    This was another very helpful post because we do need good alternatives to shorts.
    I would love a blog post about styling skirts—you may have done one already? But I find skirts difficult to work with, though I do like them—what length? A-line? Straight? Full? Patterned? What kind of top to wear? And third piece? What about shoes? Aargh.
    Anne

    1. I have not done that in a while at least. I’ll try to work on that soon. It is quite the dilemma, I’ll agree.

  45. Hi Kay I love skirts because I’m do short, and very short waisted; they’re cool, modest, fun, and don’t drown
    me like wide lag long pants.
    You mentioned the glaucoma procedure and I had that surprise 2 years ago. It was a quick, simple procedure and pressures have been great ever since the in office procedure. Piece of cake. Good luck and enjoy every day after that 😇 Sandra

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