Shorts for Summer That Aren't Denim Shorts (I Mean!!)

When it’s hot — like fry-an-egg-on-the-sidewalk-and-don’t-even-bother-wearing-deodorant-because-you’re-screwed-anyway hot — jean shorts sound like the absolute worst idea. But here’s a fun reminder that’s easy to forget: Jean shorts, though ubiquitous, are not the only shorts that exist. There are plenty. Now, if we’re talking steamy nether regions, it’s pajama shorts that deserve all the hot weather, leg-baring credit. They’re like button-down shirts for your fanny: sharp, airy and perfect with everything.

Elizabeth Tamkin styled the below to show that proof is in the PJ pudding.

Grandpa’s “House Pants”

**Walk of Shame** shorts, **Land's End** linen top, **Helen Rödel** knit cardigan, **The Row** shoes, **Trademark** bag, **Leven's Jewels** earrings, **Illesteva** sunglasses, **Fendi** scarf in hairWalk of Shame shorts, **Land's End** linen top, **Helen Rödel** knit cardigan, **The Row** shoes, **Trademark** bag, **Leven's Jewels** earrings, **Illesteva** sunglasses, **Fendi** scarf in hair

These shorts (that Leandra once wore to the office) work because they trick everyone’s eyes into thinking you’re wearing a skirt, when really, your grandpa likely wears these to brush his teeth at night. Worn with an oversize linen shirt, slippers and a crochet robe, you’re golden in public, but you’re also prepared should you find yourself overcome by the urge to crawl back in bed.

When Someone Asks You, “Boxers or Briefs?”

**Maison Margiela** shorts, **Helen Rödel** knit crop top under **Monse** blouse, **Chanel** shoes, **Maryam Nassir Zadeh** bag, **Cult Gaia** bamboo braceletsMaison Margiela shorts, **Helen Rödel** knit crop top under **Monse** blouse, **Chanel** shoes, **Maryam Nassir Zadeh** bag, **Cult Gaia** bamboo bracelets

Boxers. Hello, there’s a built-in crotch-breeze window. Add a long blouse over them to avoid a show, though. A teeny top-handle handbag big enough for necessities makes it clear your leaving of the house was intentional. Fancy camper sandals make you a woman of mystery.

None-of-Your-Business Casual

**Sleeper** shorts, **Blazé Milano** blazer, **Helen Rödel** knit camisole, **Staud** belt, **Brother Vellies** shoes, **Mounser** earrings, **Illesteva** glassesSleeper shorts, **Blazé Milano** blazer, **Helen Rödel** knit camisole, **Staud** belt, **Brother Vellies** shoes, **Mounser** earrings, **Illesteva** glasses

Here’s how this outfit works: Roll off your couch-as-chaise lounge in the silky shorts-and-tank combo you were wearing to be At Home Fancy. No one needs to know you slept in it for three days straight. Grab a blazer but don’t don it until you reach an over-air-conditioned destination. Arrive, dive (in a sink of water) and then throw the blazer on. Belt it at your waist. Chill.

Then let the countdown begin until you can run home, half-change and more or less wear the same outfit to bed.

Poll: Would you wear these? Y/N?

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Styled by Elizabeth Tamkin. Modeled by Luiza Farber of MSA Models; follow Luiza @xoxoluiza and MSA @msamodels. Photos by Edith Young.