You Need to Add Paperbag Shorts to Your Wardrobe Rotation. Immediately.
1 min readWe’ve spent all year cultivating the perfect shorts lineup for our wardrobe. Denim cutoffs, active shorts, lacy satin pairs, cotton chinos, even knee-length cargos, but alas, we’ve missed a key pair.
Enter paperbag shorts, a high-waisted style denoted by its standout cinching that closely resembles, yes, that of a grocery bag. This style creates an hourglass illusion without requiring all that much effort, and it comes in a vast array of fabrics, from Chan Luu’s technical taffeta take to Veronica Beard’s denim pair. Finding the right pair is easy: there is a plethora of options, after all. The key, however, is paying close attention to how you style them. To take full advantage of the “bag” look, keep your top fitted and tucked in; otherwise, you may find yourself looking quite literally too baggy.
With styling in mind, we’ve found the best paperbag shorts to add to your summer wardrobe rotation. It’s the easiest way to bring some volume to your outfit without all of the noise.
Denim shorts practically come in any silhouette imaginable, so it’s to no surprise that a paperbag style exists. And it’s even less of a surprise that Veronica Beard makes them, as they’re aligned with the brand’s takes on classic pieces.
A far cry from denim, L’Agence’s paperbag shorts elevate the style to the max. Subtle pleats add elegance, the relaxed leg and self-tie belt create comfort, and the side pockets give an element of convenience.
We told you there was a technical taffeta pair on this list, and Chan Luu didn’t disappoint in the delivery. While the brand is known for its handmade jewelry and accessories, its clothing is not to be slept on. Case in point: this pair of sheeny, softly structured shorts.
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You don’t need to shell out the big bucks to participate in this trend. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the paperbag pool, start with this belted pair that epitomize the sophistication of the style.
Of course, if you are down to splurge, Saint Laurent’s Bermuda spin on the style is a surefire way to go. The relaxed knee-grazing length coupled with the custom pin-buckle belt channels effortless ease.
A little less baggy than the others on this list, Balzac Paris has a pair of soft creamy denim shorts that have the flattering cinch of the waist without all of the avant-garde volume. If you want a full set, opt for the matching top for no-brainer styling.
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For those who want to dabble in the trend at the office, St. Agni has a professional pair (albeit a little short, so mind the dress code) that are comprised of a viscose-linen blend that will prevent overheating during commutes.
Here’s a surprise for you: Moncler, the luxury outerwear provider, does indeed make paperbag shorts—and they’re quite fabulous. The crinkled technical faille composition will also help you beat the summer heat.
Primed for dining al fresco along the Amalfi Coast, Loewe’s striped cotton-poplin style is inviting immediate wanderlust into your wardrobe. While we still generally recommend pairing paperbag shorts with fitted tops, the oversized matching blouse is almost too tempting to resist.
Not all paperbag shorts require drawing attention to the cinched waistband. This pair from Et Ochs are more demure, with a slim drawstring that creates an understated spin on the style.
Finally, we turn to A.L.C. for the perfect blend of comfort and class. The elastic waist won’t dig, and the crisp, breathable fabric is heatwave-ready. Oh, and don’t forget about the hidden side seam pockets that finish this style off with a flourish.
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