Move over, joggers. Biker shorts are without a doubt our favorite 2021 summer trend. With our penchant for everything practical these days—it looks like this trend is here to stay. No longer just a workout staple, biker shorts are the fashion must we’re reaching for this summer for just about every occasion. Do we dare say how easy they are to dress up and down? We’ve got you covered on how to style biker shorts.
How to Style Biker Shorts: Our Top Ten
The invention of the bicycle in the late 19th century revolutionized society and had a profound, lasting impact on women’s fashion. The bicycle provided women with a newfound freedom of movement and independence, ushering in the rational clothing movement. As a result, women soon ditched elaborate hoop skirts for pants. Our modern-day biker shorts have evolved from the practical bloomers of a bygone era to becoming one of our favorite must-have pieces this summer.
The popular bike shorts trend in the 80s and 90s became an instant fashion statement when spotted on Princess Diana. Madonna also had a hand in making us all want to vogue in this trend. Biker shorts have since reemerged as a fashion do these past few seasons. With their modern and minimalist design, the options are endless when it comes to styling biker shorts. Here’s our round-up on how to style biker shorts with our top 10 summer styles.
1. Activewear
We’ve been living in our activewear this year, and cycling has become a favorite form of exercise. Whether connecting virtually on Peloton or outside with nature, biking has kept us healthy this year. As a result, we’re living in our biker shorts.
When thinking about how to style biker shorts for active days, look for shorts with performance features. Opting for 4-way stretch and moisture-wicking is key. Our favorite detail? Pockets just big enough for a phone. This summer, style performance bike shorts with a bra top and cropped performance jacket to refresh that workout vibe. Printed patterns like snake and space-dye sets for workout looks do double duty. Take your look from the studio to the street by adding a hoodie after your workout for a laid-back style that’s perfect for running errands.
2. Loungewear
We’ve gotten used to feeling comfy this past year, and this is another trend that we aren’t ready to give up quite yet. Loungewear staples are an essential part of any wardrobe when relaxing at home. It’s also just as stylish when walking the dog or getting in your steps for the day. Biker shorts are an integral part of any loungewear set and a must for your closet. Not sure how to style biker shorts? No worries—keep reading to find out.
Look for coordinating sets—you can’t beat a knit ribbed racerback tank and matching shorts. A super soft and slouchy cardigan is an ideal layer for lounging. Prefer a roomier fit and feel? Opt for a cropped boxy t-shirt in linen or slub cotton, and add a short-sleeve sweatshirt for a little edge. Now for the biggest decision of them all: Bare feet all the way, or keep cozy in your fuzzy slippers all summer long?
3. Unstructured Blazer
Need inspiration on how to style biker shorts for more elegant occasions? Layering is the go-to fashion advice that never disappoints. Style a blazer for an effortlessly chic bike shorts trend look. On-trend for summer, the boyfriend blazer is unstructured and offers just the right amount of tailoring and polish to any look. Keep it fun and play with proportion here. Layer a blazer over a fitted crop top, bike shorts and loafers for a feminine twist on a traditional menswear look. For a casual yet sporty feel, wear a graphic t-shirt with biker shorts and stack a hoodie and blazer. Accessorize with a backpack to store all of your summer essentials, and finish off the look with hiking boots.
4. Denim and Utility Jacket
If a blazer feels too buttoned-up, you’ve got options. Cargo and denim jackets are treasured for a reason. They’re lightweight, versatile and never go out of style. Reach for a utility jacket with a tie-waist detail to define your shape. Style a cargo jacket with your favorite tie-dye tee. Or, wear a classic denim jacket unbuttoned, over a white t-shirt or tank with your biker shorts this summer. A chunky sole sneaker and a crossbody bag complement this timeless look.
5. Monochromatic
Dip your toes in the bike shorts trend with a simple styling hack—monochromatic dressing. A head to toe all-black power look is flattering and lets accessories do the heavy lifting. From bomber jackets to blazers, style a biker short bodysuit with your favorite layer. Add finishing touches with platform sandals and a chunky chain-link necklace for a bold look. On the flip side, keep it simple with hoop earrings, an Apple watch and fly-knit flats for a sleek take on this polished, yet trendy, ensemble.
6. Tonal: À la neutral
Looking for a more pulled-together style? Less is more. Embrace the biker shorts trend with a tasteful and tonal look. This summer, you’ll find quintessential neutrals in a variety of colorways. The trick to pulling off a tonal ensemble is to stick to one color palette. Explore neutral hues by combining ivories with camels and soft browns. Shades of grey are always in style. If you’re up for a ride in a tonal ensemble, try incorporating animal prints to add depth. Or, for a stylish surprise, look for an array of soft purples, reds, greens or blues to mix up your take on the tonal look. Tonal is in. What about you?
7. Pop of Color
Bright and uplifting colors usher in the carefree days of summer. Add a splash of color to your biker shorts looks. The Desert Daze trend evokes the southwest’s relaxed bohemian vibe and, like bike shorts, is on-trend and a style must this summer. The earthy color palette has us feeling green and longing to add a little spice to our wardrobe.
Try pairing your classic biker shorts with sky blues, deep greens and mustard yellows for a pop of desert color. Lean into this trend and look for a blouse with boho details like embroidery or balloon sleeves to pair with your biker shorts. The small details and fringe finishes are key here. Summer staples such as buckled sandals and a pair of 70s inspired sunglasses top off this look.
8. Classic Summer Patterns and Prints
Summer prints and patterns are being reimagined this year. For more bike shorts trend inspiration, look for a fresh update on an old classic. The floral pattern options are endless this summer. From ditsy floral and tropical palm prints to abstract watercolor variations. Pairing a floral knit top with your biker shorts adds a sweet and femme twist. Go all in on a preppy look, and try biker shorts with nautical-inspired pieces. A striped top with espadrille sneakers adds charm to this outfit—perfect for a summer beach day.
9. On The Town
A modern and minimalist pair of biker shorts is a breeze to dress up or down. Style biker shorts with a statement top and strappy heeled sandals for added glam to a night-out look. Demi Moore wearing biker shorts to the Oscars officially gave us permission to take this sportswear staple to a whole new level. This summer, give your biker shorts a luxe makeover with peplum and wrap tops. These silhouettes add definition, which in turn, elongates your frame and highlights your waist. Dressing up biker shorts means there is no need to sacrifice comfort all night long.
10. Work from Home
When deciding what to wear when working from home, achieving the right blend of comfort and style is key. Pair biker shorts with suede loafers and an oversized button-down shirt. A size or two bigger than your usual size creates a comfy and chic work-from-home look. Choose between iconic white or pinstripe for that business casual feel, and express your individuality on Zoom with a favorite accessory or two.
What Shoes to Wear with Biker Shorts
The good news? When wondering how to style biker shorts with shoes, you have many choices. Sneakers may be your go-to, but they shouldn’t be the only shoes you grab to complete your look. From casual to chic, shoes are the foundation for creating fashionable looks this summer. Here are our favorite footwear options that will put the finishing touches on all of your biker short outfits.
How to style biker shorts with sneakers
Our elevated sneaker game gives us a variety of options when it comes to how to style biker shorts. Choose from updated white tennis shoes to on-trend chunky kicks to retro court sneakers for a sporty and stylish vibe. We love comfortable sneakers in vibrant colors and prints that add both subtle and bold style to our looks.
How to style biker shorts with boots
Wondering how to style biker shorts with boots? Hands down, the perfect pairing is the lace-up combat boot. This wardrobe workhorse spruces up your ensemble in a snap. Put some pedal to the metal and style biker shorts and boots with socks that pop and a printed tee. On the other hand, it’s right at home dressing up a tailored biker short look with a bomber jacket and blouse. Don’t be afraid to mix delicate jewelry and accessories with these structured statement pieces. The versatility of the lace-up boots allows for personal style to shine bright.
How to style biker shorts with sporty sandals
Lean into the summer casual aesthetic with the sport sandal trend. For ultimate comfort, sporty sandals are a stylish alternative to sneakers when wondering what shoes to wear with biker shorts. Add pops of color with your sports sandals, or opt for a little height with a platform style. Made for outdoor adventures, take a whirl with this 90s inspired trend. Think beach trips, hiking and easy strolling through the farmers’ market on a Sunday morning. Keep it simple. Wear sports sandals with biker shorts, a bra top and a denim jacket—it’s a go-to look, all summer long. Do we have you on board?
How to style biker shorts with heeled sandals
Take your biker shorts up a notch this summer with a strappy heel. For an elegant ensemble, a simple high-heeled sandal adds serious style points. Add a blouse, blazer or moto jacket and finish the look with dazzling accessories. What’s the short answer when deciding what shoes to wear with biker shorts for a night out? High-heeled sandals add instant allure.
Are you ready to take a spin in this summer’s hottest trend? Our style experts are ready to help. Take your style quiz, schedule a Fix and ask your stylist to send you a pair of on-trend biker shorts. Don’t forget, shipping and returns are always on us.
