The "Boring" Summer Basic Every Fashion Person Owns

White shorts always shape up to be the sleeper hit of the summer. Minimal, easy, and endlessly wearable, they’re the kind of staple that doesn’t need to shout to be relevant. Every fashion person seems to own a pair, but the way they’re being styled this summer feels especially fresh—less resort cliché, more cool-girl uniform. Whether tailored or slouchy, they’re the base for some of the season’s best looks.

For summer 2025, it’s all about contrast. Crisp, structured white shorts paired with oversize poplin shirts and sleek sandals feel modern and pulled together without trying too hard. On the other end of the spectrum, longer, looser silhouettes styled with fitted tanks or sporty pieces like retro sneakers and oversize crewnecks give off an effortless edge. It’s a subtle shift, but it makes all the difference.

Texture also plays a role. Think clean denim, soft linen, or elevated twill—each bringing a slightly different energy. Linen pairs feel breezy and low-maintenance, especially when worn with simple tanks or ribbed knits. White denim cutoffs, on the other hand, still hold their place, but the styling this year is more pared-back: minimal accessories, neutral layers, and sharp shapes.

At the end of the day, white shorts aren’t a trend—they’re a foundation. And right now, they’re the piece every stylish person is building their summer wardrobe around. If you haven’t figured out how to wear yours yet, now’s the time to start.

See our favorite white-shorts outfits for summer 2025 below.

This is how you dress up your white cutoff shorts.

Here's your go-to casual outfit for running errands this summer.

Ballet flats are always the key to a cool and comfortable look.

We love the all-white with a pop of red situation happening here.

This look is checking off all the latest summer trends: long pendant necklace, round glasses, and sleek leather belts.

We're 100% re-creating this outfit on our vacation this summer.

Perfect for the office and beyond.

Another laid-back way to wear white boxer shorts this warm-weather season.

We're seeing a trend here—white trouser shorts paired with a fitted top and timeless black belt.

It's giving the official chill-but-stylish uniform all the girls will wear to and from workouts.

Long shorts paired with tall boots never looked so chic.

More proof it's all in the details, and by details, we mean a fun black belt.

The perfect combo to wear on early morning coffee runs while you're on vacation.

It's the kitten heels styled with long white trouser shorts for us.

It wouldn't be summer style without a breezy white matching et.