Shorts, a wardrobe essential

A model that has become a must-have over the seasons

White or black, in cotton or linen for summer, in leather for winter, or timeless in denim... they're as daring as trousers all year round! Worn casually with a boyish shirt and trainers, glamorously with high heels and a blazer, or as citywear under a coat or trench, shorts add a chic, sexy note to our outfits. They come in a range of shapes and colours: low-rise or high-waisted, worn with trainers or shoes, with or without a jacket... anything goes, depending on your style and look.

And yet, for many years now, shorts (especially mini shorts) have been confined to the shelves of sportswear, children's fashion, beach or holiday accessories. This summer staple was not considered suitable for city life. Unlike jeans, it would never have occurred to an elegant woman to wear them to the office or out, even if they were well cut and of good quality.

Then came the vintage trend and the influence of the 50s! With them came nostalgia for the flamboyant era when Lauren Bacall, Marilyn Monroe and even Jackie Kennedy, perched on their slender high-heeled shoes, small handbag on their arm, sported elegant shorts and a silk shirt, with as much class as their expensive dresses ...

Our fashion tips for autumn winter 2023

Shorts are taking fashionistas' wardrobes by storm, making their mark in the battle between jeans, classic trousers and skirts. Do you need one at all costs? Here's our fashion advice to help you make the most of your look. Follow the guide!

Shorts aren't just for summer. As soon as the rain and clouds herald the approach of winter, we tend to forget white, of course, and opt for dark or mineral colours. Pieces in leather or faux leather, wool or tweed, velvet or suede have something to appeal to every woman, depending on her style and body type. More original than a mini-skirt, shorts have become a basic piece of clothing that's a must-have in every woman's wardrobe this season.

In the Autumn 2023 collection from Elora, we're immediately smitten with the loose black mid-length shorts in satin imitation, a nod to Bermuda shorts. Wear with a re-refined black blouse and a gold buckle belt. Chic and stylish, this outfit has been designed in the spirit of the haute couture capsule collections on Rue Cambon. Depending on the occasion, these timeless shorts can also be one of those cosy, comfortable garments you love to wear in cocooning mode. All you need to do is layer them with a sleeveless down jacket and, instead of shoes, slip on some chunky ankle boots with notched soles.

Other trendy options for this autumn/winter season are corduroy shorts and studded suede shorts... Alongside them are the essential high-waisted shorts in disco-style sequins. A must-have for a perfect winter evening look! For everyday wear, tone down the shine with a more casual top piece, such as (depending on the season) a white or ecru T-shirt or short trench coat, a sober felted wool jacket or a chunky jumper. Heeled ankle boots and a tote bag are the perfect accessories to complete this unique style.

An outsider to add to your autumn winter collection: tweed shorts. They're undoubtedly the easiest style to make your own, without the fuss! Wear them by day with a thin jumper and preppy loafers. In the evening, tweed shorts go well with heels (worn with thin tights). Why not even try a strapless top? Good to know: the fashion trends for spring 2024 already predict a comeback, with a trench coat and flat shoes, ballerina-style.

Whatever the case, shorts are taking over all the fashion departments, at all prices, with models, materials and colours that are sometimes unexpected.

Winter shorts: which accessories to wear?

Choosing the right accessories when putting on your shorts is an essential question. Especially in the middle of winter: tights! These off-season basics need to be in harmony with your look and with the other clothes that make up your outfit for the day. When it comes to wearing shorts, you can be daring enough to try the mid-season or bare-legged winter look with high boots or thigh-high boots, but it's more realistic to find styles that will go well with a pair of plain or fancy tights.

The rules are pretty much the same as when you want to accessorise a dress or short skirt...

black leather shorts can be worn with a pair of opaque or finely striped tights (beware of flashy colours!), possibly with biker-style boots and a denim jacket for a more casual look. Suedette shorts can be worn in a glamorous version, with fine black tights (possibly with polka dots), heels and a smart blazer. For corduroy shorts, a classic revisited this season, dare to wear sequined tights, with a loose shirt and babies: a chic, offbeat effect guaranteed!

In general, here are a few basic tips for looking your best... to bear in mind when you're picking out your favourite pieces and putting together your outfits!

• to avoid the 'back from holiday' effect, combine shorts with destroy or faded denim with quality pieces that are as sensible and understated as possible.
• with classic shorts, try more daring tops: flowers, sheer effects, chiffon or lace, folk embroidery, bright colours..
• in general, when out on the town, think about minimising the casual side of shorts by wearing them with a pretty pair of ballet flats, a little jacket, a leather bag, a sophisticated belt, jewellery...
• if your shorts are boyish, you can contrast them with a girly or glamorous top
• don't be afraid to tuck a loose shirt into your shorts, but don't let it hang down at the back. Tie it at the waist if it's too long, like Rita Hayworth!
• beware of the jean shorts / tee shirt (in summer) or shorts / sweet shirt (in winter) duo: this casual pairing only works with a well-cut, quality top. Beware of the 'Routard Guide' look!

Adapt your choice of shorts to your body shape

Themost important thing is the cut, to enhance your body shape. So, rather than piling on unflattering pieces, don't hesitate to invest a certain amount of money in a quality model... As with trousers or jeans, choose a shapely waist that hugs your curves, but doesn't mould them too much.

Even if you're extremely slim, avoid denim shorts that are very close to the body, or fabrics boosted with elastane. A high-waisted style, without going too high, will elongate your legs, in the manner of the stars of the 60s. Especially if the shorts remain a little loose at the top of the thighs.

Also beware of very pronounced cuffs and hems, or contrasting colours, which can 'break' and shorten the line of the leg. The same goes for darts and pockets, which should preferably be discreet and flat-fronted, otherwise they will unnecessarily weigh down the tummy and hips.

As with a dress, choose flowing fabrics that will move with you. In summer, cotton or linen shorts will be your best ally. For city or winter wear, try velvet or suede.