The Long and Shorts of It

Time is flying by, but there is still one more month of summer left, and that means one more month for shorts!

I have always felt a little self-conscious in shorts (I have this thing about my knees, but that's another post), but I think anyone can feel confident in just about anything that's done right. So, here are some tips for maximizing this summer's hottest short-ish trends.

1. Feel free to play with the length, but the best proportion for this season's dressy shorts is voluminous.

2. For a quick do-it-yourself solution, take a pair of pants stuck at the back of your closet and cut them off around mid-thigh.

3. Tucked-in blouses, graphic tees and lacey shirts are all a good way to top off your chic shorts.

4. Spruce it up, if you'd like, with a pair of heels, a statement piece of jewelry and, of course, well moisturized gams.



Some of these styles might also help you get started.



Try a bold pattern like these silky shorts from See By Chloe.

Or this floral design from Urban Outfitters.

You can also experiment with an unusual fabric or material, like these leather-look-alike bubble shorts from Revolve Clothing.

For a slightly more casual look, but still with a little flair, try a cuffed, tie-front short, like this one from Forever 21...



...or this one from J. Crew.


Now all we need is the willpower to take up five minutes earlier for a smooth shave, right ladies?

That's Tight

I came across this image on The Sartorialist earlier today, and was reminded how much I love boldly colored and patterned tights. In fact, I am wearing bright pink, knit tights as we speak and I'm not going to lie. They look pretty hot.

Bright and patterned hosiery made a scene on the runways this season and, unlike mile-high hats or dresses with huge pieces cut out, this is one trend that translates into real-life as well. Not to mention that bright colors, bold stripes and funky patterns are a great way to warm up the dreary winter months and your little leggies.

Here are a few tips to help you put your best stockinged foot forward. 

Leg up

Keep your clothes simple and let your tights take center stage. For example, if you're wearing tights with a geometric pattern, don't wear clothes with a busy pattern as well. If you're feeling adventurous and want to mix subtler patterns and textures, stick with solid colored shoes and go with a head-to-toe monochromatic color scheme. {'Heather Hip' Diamond Tights from Nordstrom}

Mute button

If you are afraid you can't pull off some of the season's more outrageous colors, such as lime green or fuchsia, you can still follow the trend but keep a lid on it, with more muted colors such as plum or khaki. 

Left to the Imagination

Another way to ease yourself into a bold print or pattern is to just show a little glimpse. Pair an eye-catching geometric design with a skirt and boots and let the pattern fill the gap, without overwhelming you or your outfit. 

Wear the Pants

Who said hosiery always has to go under skirts? The season's hottest colors and patterns are available in thigh-high, knee-high and ankle-high options as well and can be just as striking when paired with pants, especially if you finish off the look with a killer pair of shoes. Round-toed shoes, court shoes, sling-backs and strappy sandals add a little vavoom and let the colors and patterns show through. {Image from Nordstrom.com}

Layer Up

Why only wear one trend when you can wear two? If you are looking to pack a punch in both color and texture, layer a pair of fishnets over a pair of colored opaque tights for a unique, runway worthy look.

And that's not all! Check out this photo slideshow from About.com for more hints on how to get the most out of every kind of hosiery.

Then tell us: what's keeping your legs warm this winter?