Yesterday, I wore a dress without leggings. Today, SHORTS!

I created a little info-graphic for you all, in case you aren’t sure if you can “pull off” shorts:

Yes, it’s that simple!!! I don’t know about you, but I refuse to sweat my ASS off because someone might be offended by my cellulite, and I can look damn cute rocking it too!

My key to short-ed bliss, is finding the RIGHT shorts. Not every style works for me. Here are a few short trends, and how I make them work:

The printed shorts: These are Torrid’s Paisley print pleated shorts. This was a BIG jump for me, because a print can make anything it covers look LARGER. The key to wearing pleated AND print shorts is to let them be the focus. I did a fitted cami and cardigan on top in the same color to avoid anything being “too much.” I chose the cardigan to camouflage my hips and offer me coverage on my arms.

Next: Black shorts.

I am a big fan of dressing up black shorts. I think you can and should rock heels with shorts, and sparkly tops. For this look, I went more casual and dressed down my black “dressy” shorts with a t-shirt and a floral kimono. (PS: I LOVE this Kimono from Kohl’s that I snagged for only $3). I also love how fun the slogan t-shirt can be, paired with the bright, floral print! Again, 2 pieces are monochromatic, and one piece is fun!

And last but not least… classic denim shorts:

These are probably my least favorite pair of the 3, mainly because the zipper won’t stay up without being rigged, lol. The great thing about denim shorts though, is that you can virtually wear them with anything. Since these are SO SHORT and a little tight (to me, I am a Mom now), I like to pair them with a flowy shirt and of course, my black Zig Zag Cardigan.

In the end, shorts serve a FUNCTION as much as they are FASHION: they keep you cool, and in Texas, you can’t take that for granted, no matter what your size. Now I just need to go shopping for sandals!

More info:

Outfit #1:
Shorts: Torrid, find them HERE
Cami: Cato, find it HERE
Cardigan: Zig Zag Stripe, find it HERE
Necklace: Claire’s, like a million years ago.

Outfit #2:
Shorts: Kohl’s, Levi’s (not available online)
T-shirt: Torrid, (out of stock, but any graphic tee will work!)
Kimono: Kohl’s (clearance rack, but these are everywhere right now)

Outfit #3:
Shorts: Ross
Shirt: Torrid, (aptly named “the boob shirt” by my husband) find it HERE
Cardigan: Zig Zag Stripe, find it HERE

Photos courtesy of Heather Fritz of Violet Rose Photography