Sport-inspired looks are having a moment right now, and this summer you can work the trend by donning a pair of runner shorts. Runner shorts usually have an elastic waistband and dolphin hemline (curved sides), making them look quite sporty. They aren’t just limited to running marathons or going to the gym either. This season you can easily style your runner shorts up to make them look oh so chic. Take a look at these cool and casual runner shorts for summer.
1 Acid Wash Runner Shorts
You can’t go past a pair of denim shorts for summer. These runner shorts are a cool twist on the classic jean short. They feature a relaxed elastic waistband and draw cord, and come in a subtle acid wash finish. These shorts are from Topshop and cost $20. Wear them fitted for a retro '70s inspired look or go up a size for something looser.
Frequently asked questions
2 Tailored Runner Shorts
If you’re after a more polished and sophisticated look then try a pair of runner shorts in a more tailored finish. Just look for styles with a tailored waistband and in a looser cut. These slate cupro shorts from Topshop would look super stylish worn with a tucked-in blouse and pointed pumps.
3 Striped Runner Shorts
Monochrome stripes are a big trend this season. A pair of striped runner shorts is a cool and casual way to work the trend. These runner shorts cost around $13 from Forever 21 and would look great teamed with a crisp button-up blouse and patent Oxford shoes for a polished look.
4 Silk Runner Shorts
Go for something a bit more luxe with a pair of silk runner shorts. Dress them up by teaming them with a tank top, fitted blazer, and strappy sandals. These Topshop shorts come in navy but feature colourful green piping around the edges. They’ll set you back around $90 (they are silk, after all), but are a fraction of the cost of similar shorts by DKNY and Alexander Wang.
5 Geometric Print Runner Shorts
Geometric prints are big business this season. A cool geometric print is a great statement piece for any wardrobe. Wear yours in a more casual way with these printed runner shorts. The navy and taupe pattern isn’t too in-your-face, making these the perfect shorts for a casual daytime outfit. These Forever 21 shorts would look great worn with a sleeveless collared shirt and tan sandals.
6 Leather Runner Shorts
Leather clothing is having a huge moment. Make leather-look clothing work for you this summer in a pair of leather shorts. Choosing a runner style short is great as it gives the leather a casual and relaxed look. Try wearing them with a classic striped tee and ankle boots. These Thakoon shorts are pretty pricey at around $500 but you can find more affordable faux leather styles at Urban Outfitters and Piperlime.
7 Abstract Print Runner Shorts
These runner shorts feature a colourful abstract print. They’re perfect for wearing at the beach with a slouchy tee or loose button-up blouse. These shorts are $24 from Topshop but you can find similar styles at Forever 21 and ASOS.
8 Oversized Runner Shorts
Runner shorts tend to be on the very short side, so if you’re after looser styles then check out these BASE canvas runner shorts from La Garçonne. They sit at the hips and reach to just above the knees. Since they’re quite oversized, keep things fitted on your top half so your figure doesn’t get swamped.
These are just a few different styles of runner shorts available at the moment. They can easily be dressed up or down, making them a versatile choice for summer. What do you think of these runner shorts? How would you style them?
