Spring Runway 2012

Short Tempered

Now that designers from Balenciaga to Piazza Sempione, Marc Jacobs and John Galliano are offering up delectable options, shorts are truly holding their own. And forget the slouch. This new breed of bottoms is tailored, sophisticated, functional and down-right chic. Neutral or drenched in color, Daisy Dukes-cropped or Bermuda, polished off with a blazer or an elegant tunic, remember – if you would’a, could’a, should’a worn a skirt or pants, swap for a great pair of shorts and your spot on trend. Check out our favorite ways to wear the new Short.

The Mini Cropper

Well, if the skirt can do it. With sky-high heels, platform booties or strappy wedges the barely there cut makes legs look a million miles long. Prada’s shorts really look more like couture UnderRoos while Versace’s sea-inspired crops at least make it into thigh region. Paired with a long jacket or lots of thin layers this look will make passers-by wonder ‘does she have anything on under there?’ Confidence!

: Rachel Zoe

Lady and the Vamp

Usually a skirt or dress are go-to when you want to amp up femininity. But some of the season’s short pant options will make you think twice. Rachel Zoe’s sophomore collection boasts tons of beautiful shorts, including a light tan leather pair that strikes exactly the right kind of balance between masculine texture and girlish charm. And Givenchy’s satin and exotic skin short suits are beyond glam. Styled with modern, sexy or sweet tops and jewelry, these looks are pretty and punchy. The output is somewhere between an edgy Jackie O and Reese’s character in Election. Either way, this is a lady who does way more than lunch.

J.Crew

No Shame in Jorts

Since the ’40s denim has been a staple in our closets and it’s not leaving anytime soon. Even still, jean shorts have suffered a certain stigma as the bottom of choice for country bumpkins, non-reformed hippies, bad-ass teens and slackers everywhere. Thanks to powerhouse design labels like the Gap, J Brand and J.Crew denim in general (and the short in specific) is enjoying a fashionable renaissance as a fabric worthy of style effort. This summer’s relaxed/refined look is so well captured by the Crew: well-tamed jean shorts, preppie top and lightweight blazer. It’s casual without being careless.