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How to Style a T-shirt with Shorts This Summer: Full Outfit Guide

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When you are looking for the perfect summer outfit, t-shirts and shorts won’t disappoint. However, every combination of tees (t-shirts) and shorts is never the same. Based on the occasions you are heading to this summer, you need to pair them well. No worries if you have no ideas on how to style tees with shorts this summer! We have created this post as your full outfit guide to pair t-shirts with shorts.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about how to style tees with shorts to rock this summer. But before that, we want to talk about the following:

  • Types of Shorts to Pair with T-shirts
  • T-shirt Styles: Graphic, Plain, and Oversized
  • Choosing the Right T-shirt for Summer

Types of Shorts to Pair with T-shirts

Different styles of shorts for men and women pair well with t-shirts. We’ll talk about the most popular of those styles next.

Popular Shorts for Men to Pair with Tees

Here are the most popular men’s shorts for pairing with tees:

Cargo Shorts

The functionality and ruggedness best describe the cargo shorts. These shorts feature sturdy materials, multiple patch pockets, and are loose-fitting. In fact, cargo shorts pair well with hi-visibility t-shirts, making them a good choice for the summer. Thanks to their ample storage space, these military-inspired shorts are ideal for outdoor activities!

Chino Shorts

Chino shorts also pair well with t-shirts as stylish and comfortable bottoms. Featuring lightweight materials, these shorts come in different colors, especially solid ones, and patterns. Not to mention, these bottoms bridge the gap between casual and formal wear. 

Athletic Shorts

Athletic shorts as their name indicates are for gym rats, athletes, and active individuals. In general, these shorts are breathable, stretchy, and moisture-wicking. So, athletic shorts; more specifically mesh shorts, ensure maximum comfort to athletes during physical activities.  

Board Shorts

Traditionally, board shorts were a pick of surfers for surfing. However, they have made their way into mainstream fashion with time. These shorts feature a typical length (around-the-knee), quick-drying material, and vibrant prints. And their colorful designs and comfort have contributed to their popularity in fashion.

Apart from these shorts, various other styles of shorts also remain men’s pick for the summer. Boxer shorts (worn as both underwear and shorts) and camo shorts, to name them.

Popular Shorts for Women to Pair with Tees

Here are the most popular women’s shorts for pairing with tees:

Denim Shorts

Denim shorts are highly popular among women and pair well with t-shirts. You can find them in various lengths, ranging from distressed to high-waisted ones. The reason these shorts are popular is because they are durable and have a stimulating appeal. 

Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts are recognized for their longer length, usually around the knee. In general, these women’s shirts feature a straight cut. Because of their modest and chic appeal, they are perfect for accomplishing sophisticated yet casual looks.

High-waisted Shorts

High-waisted shorts for women often have a waistband that sits above the navel. These shorts come in a plethora of styles that feature different materials. Not to mention, they are ideal for women who want to make a fashion-forward statement.

T-shirt Styles: Graphic, Plain, and Oversized

T-shirts are a must-have wardrobe staple besides shorts, especially for the summer. Similar to shorts, you can find tees for men and women in a wide variety of styles. However, we’ll mainly talk about the three of those styles here, including graphic, plain, and oversized tees. Without further ado, let’s talk about these styles:

Graphic T-Shirts

Graphic t-shirts have been around for many decades now. These t-shirts may feature funny quotes, custom artwork, photographs, etc. And you can find graphic tees in different styles, such as a crewneck t-shirt, a tank top, and others. By the same token, they are perfect for making a strong personality statement and pairing with shorts.

Plain T-shirts

Plain or basic t-shirts are unquestionably a highly popular style of tees. Besides wearing them as everyday tees, you can style them to fashion on a budget. Many of the wholesale t-shirts that you can find today are plain tees. What makes plain tees versatile is their availability in a wide range of colors. Black, white, navy, red, pink, and so on.

Oversized T-shirts

Oversized t-shirts are larger than t-shirts in the standard size. It is their loose and baggy fit that differentiates these tees from other t-shirts. So what has contributed to their popularity as summer t-shirts to pair with shirts? The answer is their relaxed and comfortable feel. Irrespective of the body type, everyone can wear oversized tees for style, which are a versatile addition to any wardrobe.  

Apart from the above-mentioned tees, the following t-shirts are also worth considering for pairing with shorts:

Choosing the Right T-shirt for Summer

There are tips you can follow to choose the right t-shirt for summer. We have shared them below:

Understanding T-shirt Sizing: Finding Your Fit

Understanding the size of t-shirts is important when choosing the right one. In this regard, you will need to check the seams, hem, and neckband of a tee. It will help you t-shirt in the size that lies flat on your body and looks smooth.

In other words, choose a t-shirt for the summer, such as a garment-dyed t-shirt, that flatters your body. However, you can choose an oversized tee for a loose fit to accomplish certain casual outfits.

Considering the Fabric and Weight

Fabric consideration is as important as t-shirt sizing or fit. Of course, you cannot compromise on your breathability and comfort when choosing a summer t-shirt. For this reason, you should ideally choose a tee not weighing more than 7 ounces. Also, make sure you choose a lighter fabric tee made of 100% cotton, linen, silk, etc.

Pondering the Quality

Last, but not least, ponder the quality of t-shirts to choose the right t-shirt for summer. A high-quality t-shirt not only feels soft but is also firm. However, the question stands: How will you assess the quality of t-shirts when purchasing them online?

When buying online, go through customer reviews of tees and invest in t-shirts from reputable brands like Gildan and Hanes.

The above-mentioned tips regarding sizing, fabric & weight, and quality also apply to the following clothes items for the summer:

Styling Tips for Different Occasions: T-shirt and Shorts

T-shirts with shorts let you accomplish various outfits, which are ideal for different occasions and settings. As an example, you can confidently wear them for beach trips, casual outings, and sporty activities.

Moreover, there are styling tips you can follow to style t-shirts with shorts for different occasions. We have shared those tips for you below:

Know the Different Types

 It is important that you know the different types of t-shirts and shorts for styling. For instance, muscle t-shirts pair well with shorts for accomplishing casual summer looks. Still, it is important you choose these t-shirts in the right fit, neither too loose nor too baggy. 

In addition, chino shorts are appropriate for a wide range of occasions. Paring performance shorts with a reversible tank will rock your look for the gym. And pairing denim shirts with tees, you can accomplish casual looks with a cool vibe.

Tuck Your Top

Another styling tip you can follow to style a t-shirt with shorts is tucking your top. Tucking your t-shirt in shorts, such as high-waisted shorts, is a classic way of styling. And you can look casual in this fashion if you choose to wear sneakers as well.

Show Some Skin

You may prefer wearing t-shirts that are a bit loose. At the same time, you may not feel afraid of showing your skin. Then, you can style a t-shirt with shorts to add a personal touch to your looks.

For instance, you may want to showcase a tattoo or a jewelry piece wearing a tee with shorts. You can accomplish that if you wear a short-sleeve tee with cargo shorts for running errands. Or you can roll up the sleeves if you prefer wearing long-sleeve t-shirts for a more put-together look. Styling a t-shirt in this fashion works best in warm weather or mild summer evenings.

Try Layering

You can accomplish interesting looks with your tee paired with shorts via layering in the summer. However, styling tees and shorts with layering in the summer will work for you with lightweight fabric clothing.

For example, you can wear a t-shirt as a base layer under a plaid button-up shirt. Pair them with shorts and sneakers for a casual look. Or wear a tee under a solid color button-up shirt, tucked into chino shorts. Pair the items with loafers to accomplish smart casual looks. 

Styling Options: Casual vs. Dressy Looks - Tees & Shorts 

You can style t-shirts with shorts in different ways to accomplish casual (everyday) and dressy (polished) looks. We have shared outfit ideas for men and women in both of these respects next.

Casual Outfit Ideas: Styling T-shirts with Shorts

Here are different ways to style t-shirts and shorts to achieve casual looks:

The Classic Tuck

Grab an oversized t-shirt to tuck it into your shorts the classic way. That is front tucking your top into your everyday gym shorts. You can wear a pink tee with white shorts to style in this fashion to make a strong personality statement.                 

Knot It in Style

You can knot your tee in novel ways to style it with shorts for a casual vibe. As an example, you can knot your tee on the side when pairing it with high-waisted shorts. Or you can tie a knot at the front of your tee when pairing it with denim shorts. Not to mention, styling in this fashion works best with plain t-shirts. Or it can work when you want to steal the limelight in a group, such as a get-together with your friends.

Get Sporty

Wear everything athletic to accomplish sporty looks wearing tees, shorts, accessories, etc. For instance, you can pair an athletic tee with gym shorts. Then, finish your sporty looks with a baseball cap, sports socks, and trainers with a sling bag across your body. Consider wearing varsity t-shirts with shorts for accomplishing athleisure (sports casual) looks. 

Borrowed-from-My-Boyfriend Look

As a lady, you can accomplish borrow-from-my-boyfriend-look with the right shorts and tees. You can pair a graphic tee, featuring a cool band with mom shorts. Wear chunky sneakers with leather bracelets and a pair of statement earrings to complete this look.  

Have Some Tie-dye Fun

Who doesn’t love tie-dye fun? Perhaps, everyone loves it, and you may, too. You can style a tie-dye tee with shorts of your choice, based on your gender. As a woman, we recommend you pair denim shorts with your tie-dye tee. And we suggest men wear a tie-dye tee with chino shorts in a solid color and finish their tie-dye looks.

Quite Casual for Running Errands

You can look quite casual in shorts and tees for running errands this summer, pairing them smartly. In this regard, you can choose to wear a pink tee, paired with denim or chino shorts. Finally, add a hat and sneakers to finish your summer look while looking quite casual.

Dressy Outfit Ideas: Styling T-shirts with Shorts

Here are different ways to style t-shirts with shorts to accomplish dressy looks:

Adding a Belt for Effortless Styling

You can add a belt to style tees with shorts and make a strong statement. As a man, you can pair camouflage shorts with a white tee. And you can pair a plain tee with denim shorts as a woman. Then, add a classic brown belt to cinch in your waist to finish this effortless look with a summery feel.

Dressing up with a Blazer to Look Cool

You can wear a fitted t-shirt, more specifically a graphic t-shirt for dressing up and throw on a tailored blazer over your stylish t-shirt. Then, pair the items with tailored shorts. Finally, you can put on strappy or leather sandals based on your gender to finish your cool dressier look.

Sticking on to Monochromatic Magic

Another way you can look dressier in tees and shorts is via sticking to a monochromatic theme. That is pairing both of these items in the same color. Not to mention, a white tee tucked into white shorts is a classic combo to achieving a dressier summer look. So, you can stick to the same combination, and add trainers in the same color for a polished look.

Accessorizing Your T-shirt and Shorts Outfit

You can accomplish dressy looks with your tee and shorts outfits with the right accessories. For instance, women can pair a fitted black tee with tailored shorts. Then, add a statement necklace, a fedora, ankle-strap sandals, and a crossbody bag to accessorize for a dressy look. 

Contrarily, men can pair an olive or beige colored t-shirt with chino shorts complementing the tee. Add a stylish wristwatch, Panama hat, loafers, and a messenger bag to finish accessorizing for a dressy look.

Mixing Patterns and Textures for a Stylish Look

You can mix patterns and textures, too, for accomplishing dressy looks pairing tees with shorts in style. Here are some of the ways to accomplish that comfortably in style:

  • Pair a striped t-shirt with lightweight fabric (linen) shorts and leather sandals.
  • Or wear a graphic tee with denim shorts and suede loafers.
  • Or pair a heather contender tee with chino shorts and boat shoes.

How to Layer for Cooler Summer Evenings

Unquestionably, t-shirts and shorts are essential wardrobe staples for the summer. Nonetheless, the weather can suddenly become unpredictable in the summer evenings. It can happen with sudden showers, overcast skies, and cooler evenings. When it happens, you need to think out of the box layering for cooler summer evenings. Here are some handy tips you can follow to layer for cooler summer evenings:

  • Prioritize wearing lightweight fabrics, like cotton, silk, and linen for summer layering.
  • Have essential layering items in your closets ready, such as jackets & vests, scarves, cardigans, etc.
  • Don’t feel afraid of experimenting with layering long-sleeved tops, including shirts and other tops, for accomplishing effortless summer looks.
  • Have headwear, such as athletic caps, and blazers, in your closets for warmth and layering in style.
  • Layer smartly, that is to say, choose lighter layers for slightly cool evenings and multiple layers for quite cool evenings. 
  • Also, make sure you have the right footwear, like sandals, boots, and stylish sneakers, to tackle cooler summer evenings.

T-shirt and Shorts Customization to Make a Statement

You can customize t-shirts and shorts of your choosing to make a strong statement this summer. In fact, you can accomplish personalized looks this way and stand out. Now the question stands: Whether screen printing or embroidery is a better option to customize tees and shorts? Let us give you the answer to this question to help you choose the right customization services.

Screen printing is the most popular option to customize a large number of t-shirts without breaking the bank. Also, here is our guide that is worth checking out and focuses on bulk t-shirt purchases.

Embroidery works well on durable, thicker fabric shorts for embroidering small logos or designs. Screen printing also works on shorts but on casual and athletic shorts for printing large, bold designs. So, you should choose screen-printing-services and embroidery-services accordingly to make a strong statement styling personalized tees with shorts. 

Footwear Options to Complete Your Look in the Summer

When looking to stay cool and fashionable in the summer, you must have the right pair of summer shoes. As a matter of fact, you can make a strong statement wearing the right shoes with your summer outfits. We have talked about various footwear options for you for the summer below:

Slip-on Shoes

Slip-ons are ultimately comfortable to wear and allow for effortless styling for any occasion. For instance, you can wear them while attending a casual brunch with friends or spending time outside.

Loafers

You can wear loafers in all seasons as long as you choose high-quality ones in appropriate colors. Not to mention, wearing loafers with lightweight socks in the summer gives you a fresh look.

Sandals

Sandals are great shoes for the summer that offer minimal coverage and allow your feet to stay cool. The unmatched comfort and freedom of movement they provide make them the ideal choice for summer.

Sliders

Sliders are backless and open-toed shoes that feature one or more straps across the toes. As practical and casual shoes, they are ideal to wear in the summer for the day at the beach or at summer barbecues.

Sneakers

You can wear sneakers year-round, including in the summer. Designed for athletic activities, comfortable sneakers pair well with athletic-apparel and headwear.

Boots

Boots are essential shoes to wear and tackle cold weather, such as cooler summer evenings. Not to mention, they pair well with warmer clothes, wholesale sweatshirts & hoodies, for example, designed for warmth.

Also, don’t forget to check out our blog post on hoodies vs sweatshirts with their detailed comparison. 

Apart from the above, dress shoes are essential for accomplishing formal looks in the summer. Ballet flats are a popular choice, too, for women in particular for ballet dancing.  

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Styling T-shirts with Shorts

You can make common mistakes when wearing t-shirts with shorts this summer and make your outfit fall flat. We have revealed those common mistakes to help you avoid making them:

Choosing Tees in the Wrong Fit

Choosing tees that are too tight or overly bag won’t help you make an intended impact wearing them in the summer. Therefore, you shouldn’t make that mistake. Instead, choose tees that fit you well and flatter your body type.

Selecting Shorts in the Wrong Length

Selecting shorts in longer lengths can make you look shorter and old-fashioned unless you are tall. And choosing shorts in shorter lengths is inappropriate as they can make you feel uncomfortable. So, we recommend you choose mid-length shorts, which are appropriate for most body types.

Not Considering the Wrong Fabric

When styling tees with shorts this summer to make an impact, you cannot choose the wrong fabric clothes. So, avoid choosing wrinkled or poor-quality fabric t-shirts and shorts this summer. 

Neglecting Accessories

Accessories can polish your looks in tees and shorts to make a strong impact this summer. Therefore, you shouldn’t ignore accessories and choose them based on the summer outfits you want to create. 

Sticking to Too Many Patterns or Colors

When pairing shorts with tees for style, too many colors or patterns can spoil your fashionable looks. As a matter of fact, it can make your outfit look messy. So, it is best to stick to tees and shorts with a maximum of two or three patterns. Also, make sure the colors you choose for these tops and bottoms complement each other.

Also, avoid making the same mistakes when choosing other clothing items, wholesale polo shirts and compression shorts, for example.

Wrapping up

T-shirts and shorts never disappoint when you are looking to accomplish the perfect summer outfits. You have different options for shorts, including cargo, chino, denim, etc., to pair with tees. In addition, you can look stylish in the summer wearing the right t-shirts. Graphic, plain, and oversized t-shirts, to restate the styles of those tees.

As a matter of fact, you can accomplish casual and dressy looks if you pair tees with shorts in different ways. Further, you can customize them to make a strong and personalized statement in style. And you should layer your tees smartly to tackle cooler summer evenings. Also, ponder accessories and footwear options to polish your looks in tees and shorts. Lastly, avoid making common mistakes to make an impact wearing t-shirts with shorts this summer.

 


Frequently Asked Questions


Ideally, you need t-shirts made of lighter and breathable fabrics, like 100% cotton in the summer. Also, some popular t-shirt styles for the summer include striped, sleeveless, basic, and oversized.

In general, mid-length shorts sitting just above the knee work for most body types. At the same time, they are perfect to wear and accomplish casual or semi-casual outfits. However, you can also choose shorter and longer shorts based on your needs, as mentioned below:

  • To Elongate Your Figure - Short Shirts Are Ideal to Wear
  • As a Taller Men - Longer Shorts Are Your Perfect Companion

As t-shirts and shorts are casual, we won’t recommend you wear tees and shorts for formal occasions. Instead, you should wear dress shirts, suits, and other types of formal clothes in formal settings.

Firstly, it is up to your personal preference to choose what accessories you wear with a t-shirt and shorts outfit. Nonetheless, the following accessories can still help you refine your looks in tees and short outfits:
  • A Watch
  • A Baseball Cap
  • A Sun Hat
  • A Lightweight Belt 

There are various ways to wear graphic tees with shorts. As an example, you can pair them with neutral color shorts, such as white, to balance your looks. Or wear your graphic tee under a casual jacket zipped open and add sneakers to complete your streetwear look.
 


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