Cycling shorts were one of last summer’s biggest hits, counting everyone from Emily Ratajkowski, Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Kim Kardashian as fans – but this year, the tides are changing.
If the trend wasn’t for you, you’ll love the styles coming in for spring 2021. Much like the move away from skinny jeans to slouchy denim, shorts will be relaxed, loose fitting and best of all, comfy.
Read on to find out which styles will be most popular this year, how you can wear them, and where to buy them now.
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Sweat shorts
If the casual look of legging shorts appealed, sweat shorts will be right up your street.
Comfy, relaxed and effortless, these shorts were seen at the Chanel and Louis Vuitton SS21 shows – amongst many others.
Worn with crop tops, form-fitting tops, or even relaxed styles, they’re one of the easiest styles to wear. Take inspiration from the 90s for a modern look and add chunky trainers and oval shades.
Bermuda shorts
Bermuda shorts achieve a smarter look and offer coverage for those who want it, with added length on the leg.
Not dissimilar from culottes, these shorts are flattering and stylish, making for the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.
Whether worn in muted tones, or bright colours as seen on Olivia and Alice or in leather styles, you can’t go wrong.
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Denim shorts
Denim shorts are timeless, so if you’re looking for a pair of shorts that will never go out of style, these are your lot.
While denim cycling shorts were everywhere in 2020, this spring it’s all about relaxed fits worn simply.
Linen shorts
It’s hard to imagine the sun shining hard here in the UK, but when it does, you’ll want some lightweight shorts to keep the sweats at bay.
Not only are linen shorts the obvious choice for warm temperatures, but as shown by Fia, they’re effortlessly chic. Opt for paperbag styles if you want to highlight your waist.
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Buy now

Linen Shorts, £35.99, Mango – buy now

Pull-on Shorts, £17.99, Cotton:On Curve at ASOS (available in sizes 18-24) – buy now

Mid-Rise Relaxed Ripped Shorts, £19.99, Zara – buy now

Cotton Sweat Shorts, £20, Monki – buy now

Hazel Shorts, £25, Weekday – buy now

Wide Bermuda Shorts, £19.99, H&M – buy now
Pull-On Leather Shorts, £175, & Other Stories – buy now
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