Shorts - how to look classy?

[RideTheLightning]

I've tried countless pairs of shorts on recently and none are hitting the spot. I'm mid 30s, mother of two, 5 foot 8, long legs, size 10/12 on the bottom half and (fairly) athletic. I have a baby and a slight tummy. I was pregnant last summer and wafted around in maxi dresses. This summer I want to look classy in a pair of shorts rather than hide my pale pins away as I do every year.

What should I look for? What's a classy length? What material will be cool, comfortable but keep its shape/not be see-through? I want to convey 'relaxed yet polished'.

Thanks in advance

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I think it's very tricky.

Chino style, between high mid-thigh and top of knee length, plain or patterned, top or bottom, not too fitted, only a flash of bare midriff/shoulder. Bare arms are fine. Keep it simple. De fuzzed legs, no high heels. Smile. No cut-off jeans, except for the beach or gardening! Those are my rules (no midriff on display here as I'm much older than you). No one has fainted, yet, anyway. It is tricky though; you don't want to look like a middle-aged lady golfer!

I'd go for a thicker fabric - chino is a good one, as is a good quality lined linen. Simple lines. In terms of length, mid thigh is good. I'd wear a crisp button down shirt on top - sleeveless or rolled up sleeves. Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina vibe.

For ideas, J Crew is great at this look. here

As long as none of your underwear or backside is visible, anything is fine in the uK. The girl guides used to say 'check for decency when sitting' - perhaps check rear view is better. Daisy duke not a good look.

When you try on mid thigh chino ones, have a good look in the mirror. People often look a bit like Captain Mainwaring in them!

I have these Zara ones in every colour

Classy and cotton..

I have also just ordered these

And I want these but currently out of stock in my size.. Can you tell I like shorts?

Thank you everyone, that's so helpful, I'm sure I'll find something I like from that lot. They all look a lot nicer than the shorts I've tried on recently. Here's hoping I get it right and don't end up looking like a dad's army extra!

People often make the mistake of going too long in the leg, like they are trying to hide. Boy Scout length (or Captain Mainwaring ) is rather aging, I think.

Totally agree Cointreau - short is better.. As long as the legs are up to it

Short is definitely better...or one looks middle aged before one's time.