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9 Work-Appropriate Shorts to Keep You Cool in the Summer Heat

Office Friendly Shorts
Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

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Editor’s Note: Updated on March 25, 2024

Wearing full-length pants during the spring and summer months can be a bit of a drag. Now that many of Us are in the hustle and bustle of hybrid work schedules, we find ourselves working up a sweat while commuting into the office several times throughout the week. Instead of rocking full-length pants that will be sticking to your legs by the time you get to the office, wear shorts instead.

Of course, abiding by your company’s dress code policy is a must, so we compiled a roundup of dressy, office-approved shorts that won’t get you called to the HR office by lunch. We sorted through a mixture of materials, lengths and silhouettes to give you tons of options. Scroll ahead for our top picks!

Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Tailored Short

These pleated shorts are a warm-weather update of office-approved trousers. The menswear-inspired look is perfect for dressing up or dressing down. They come in nine different colors in women’s sizes 23 through 37!

Get the Sloane Tailored Short for $70 at Abercrombie & Fitch!

Liam Linen Short

Don’t wear these shorts unless you’re in the mood for non-stop compliments and questions about where you got them. These knee-length linen shorts are just that chic. The rich blue shade just screams girl boss!

Get the Liam Linen Short for $148 at Reformation!

Hotouch Bermuda Short

Reviewers are so impressed with how comfortable these shorts are. They’re made from a breathable and lightweight fabric that’s pretty stretchy too. Pair these versatile shorts with a collared blouse or a graphic T-shirt and a blazer and you’ll be good to go.

Get the Hotouch Bermuda Shorts starting at $26 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, March 25, 2024, but are subject to change.

Universal Thread Denim Cargo Short

These high-waist denim shorts are perfect for casual Fridays. They’re made from a midweight cotton-rich fabric that’s breathable enough that you won’t sweat when you run out to grab lunch with your colleagues.

Get the Universal Thread Denim Cargo Short for just $20 (originally $25) at Target!

The Drop Women’s Millie Loose-Fit Pleated Long Linen Walk Short

These shorts are made from linen, which is breathable and ideal for the summer! We adore the chic longer length and structured look of these shorts — they’re totally office-appropriate. You can team them with loose tops for the day and change into a crop top if you’re going out!

Get The Drop Women’s Millie Loose-Fit Pleated Long Linen Walk Short for $45 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, March 25, 2024, but are subject to change.

Organic Stretch Cotton Chino Bermuda Short

Chino shorts are an office-approved staple. They hit right over the knee and are made from comfortable, stretchy fabric.

Get the Organic Stretch Cotton Chino Bermuda Short for just $40 (originally $90) at Quince!

Chicilily Wide-Leg Shorts

You’ll be a springtime dream in these whimsical shorts. They have the cutest ruffles and an adjustable belt.

Get the Chiclily Wide-Leg Short for $19 (originally $26) at Walmart!

The Drop Women’s Priya Pull-On Linen Short

These shorts may be the most comfortable pair in our lineup! They’re also made from a breathable linen material and have a pull-on style, so they’re a breeze to throw on. Shoppers note how comfortable they are, and praise the different ways they can be styled for any type of occasion!

Get The Drop Women’s Priya Pull-On Linen Short for $40 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, March 25, 2024, but are subject to change.

Tommy Hilfiger Women’s 9 Inch Hollywood Chino Short

This specific pair of shorts is timeless. They have a lower rise fit and longer length that you can wear to work, on the weekends or even on a summer vacay trip. We also adore the vast sizing range and the color options to choose from!

Get the Tommy Hilfiger Women’s 9 Inch Hollywood Chino Short for just $32 originally ($35) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, March 25, 2024, but are subject to change.

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