Every spring/summer season, the short enters a new phase in the trend lifecycle. One year might see cut-offs become the style du jour, the next, baggy knee-grazing versions are all over the streets and runways alike. As the weather warms and we’re starting to trade trousers for shorts and minis, the spring short is quickly becoming the most valuable wardrobe staple of the season.  

The spring short takes its cues from tailored versions (think tweed styles like the ones Chanel sent down its 2023/24 Métiers d’art runway) and merges a more formal silhouette with casual and often lightweight fabrics. These are easy-wearing shorts, made for wearing with low-fuss camis and oversized shirts, and pairing with sneakers or kitten heels. They’re as appropriate for the office as they are for the beach, and here, we’ve pulled together an edit of our favourites from the new season collections in store.  

The Burberry check is given a new (and more summery) lease on life in these grey and royal blue boxer-like shorts. Worn with a crisp oversized white shirt and slingbacks, they’d make a very cool after-hours ensemble.  

SHOP NOW: Check Shorts, $1390 from Burberry, Ground Level  

Consider Gucci’s silk shorts a super elevated take on lounge shorts. Crafted from silk twill in the GG Supreme print, they’re right at home worn with a ribbed singlet and sneakers, or the matching silk button-down if you want to go full GG.  

SHOP NOW: GG Supreme Silk Shorts, $1850 from Gucci, Ground Level 

Leave it to Fendi to make shorts appropriate for both the office and a long weekend lunch. Light grey with a front pleat and hidden side pockets, Fendi’s mohair blend versions are as versatile as they are chic, especially when worn with patent leather pumps. 

SHOP NOW: Dove Grey Mohair Shorts, $1590 from Fendi, Ground Level 

Lightweight, courtesy of their linen fabrication, and cut with a tailored silhouette, Saba’s cornflower blue shorts are the perfect instance of easy elegance. Wear them with their matching waistcoat for a chic office outfit when the mercury starts to climb. 

SHOP NOW: Saba Dharma Bermuda Shorts, $199 from David Jones, Ground Level  

These might be the ultimate beach shorts. Dior’s take features nautical-inspired horizontal stripes and are crafted from a terry cotton jersey, meaning they’re comfortable enough to wear over swimmers but easy enough to dress up when heading to the pool bar.  

SHOP NOW: Dioriviera Shorts, $2050 from Dior, Ground Level