When it’s warm outside, looking put together can get a bit challenging. Resist the temptation to throw on cut off denim shorts and flip flops with something a tad bit more refined, like the Dittos Saddleback Betty Shorts. These cute cuffed shorts with a 2″ inseam is made with a ton of fun details, like the tabs in the front and back, and the curved seams around the front pockets and back placket. These will look great with all your colorful halters and tube tops, plus a pair of gladiator sandals.

Buy: $152

Shorts are a fantastic buy when you find an amazing, unusual pair. These one’s do the trick, that’s for sure! Raw silk fashioned in an African-inspired look are just what we need to style peasant tops and even our basic tanks. Try these shorts out with ballerina flats, sandals, or sneaker a la Agyness Deyn. Concealed snap and button closure and a higher waist.

Buy: $165.00

It can be pretty hard to avoid denim shorts in the summer, especially if you’re in an area where it gets to be extremely hot. But a pair of tailored denim shorts are sure fire way to keep cool, feel comfy and still look put together. One option is the Anlo Bethany Shorts ($158); they’re not exactly a steal, but you definitely get your money’s worth. These shorts have tabbed cuffs, a waist band and a nice dark wash to boot. On the other hand, for less than half the price you can pick up the Self Sash Denim Short from Arden B. ($68), which also have cuffs, paired with a super cute sash.

Buy: $68

I usually don’t advocate the wearing of leggings (too many potential fashion disasters!), but I think that these take the cake in terms of leggings cuteness. They’re super soft– no latex business here– but have a fun row that races up each ankle in a fun five-snap closure. Choose from either black or navy, both pictured, and don’t forget to wash them by hand if you want them to last!

Buy: $125.00

My, my: what a creative pair of wide-legged pants. Young, Broke, and Fabulous have hit it out of the park in their extreme loungewear silhouettes. If you’re going to wear wide-legged, comfy pants, you might as well go all the way in these ones. Fleece pants feature a wide waistband topped off with a cute bow. Unfinished bottom hem.

Buy: $185.00

how about a pair of shorts that are meant to be worn with something other than flip flops? Tailored shorts are a great alternative for those of us who want to stay cool but still look put together. They can be paired perfectly with heels, or just a nice pair of italian leather sandals. The Diane Von Furstenberg Jonah Shorts ($175) in brown linen/viscose, will go well with a pair of sling back wedges. And on the more budget conscious end is the white Martin Cotton Shorts by Banana Republic ($44) which can be paired with a pair of black lace up flat sandals and tops in a variety of colors. No matter which pair you choose, you’ll look stylish and have tons of options on how to accessorize them.

These high-waisted shorts are quite the prim-and-proper pick indeed! You’ll find them at Madison Los Angeles, where you’ll probably find plenty of star-style inspired pieces as well as the proper basics to flatter your shape. One styling tip for anyone who wishes to pull these off: these shorts must be worn with your very highest heels! It’s a prerequisite for glamorous styling.

Buy: $225.00

(Paul & Joe Heritier High Waisted Shorts, $288.00)

Shorts, shorts, shorts: we love them all. What’s truly striking our fancy right now is the simple shape of this season’s bunch, which is the high-waisted version. Whether you choose black, denim, khaki, or anything else in between, you’ll be surprised at how “clean” the look turns out. Now stock up on those shorts and still save. . . we’ll tell you how.

For many of us in warmer climates, shorts are an absolute must for summer. And wearing the same denim shorts over and over can be quite boring, which is why the Joe’s Jeans Scoop Pocket Shorts are the perfect alternative. These shorts are similar to a pair of denim shorts making them versatile enough to pair with a multitude of tops, but they’re distinct enough to give you variety at the same time. Pair it with a white top and red flats for that crisp all America look.

Buy: $132

We all know that high waists are in, and most of us probably have a high waisted pair of pants or a skirt by now. Why not get even more daring by trying a pair of high waisted shorts? The Morphine Generation Grey Twill High Waisted Shorts fit snuggly around the waist with a series of darts and they’re also perfect to pair with a skinny belt. These shorts are also well tailored and will look great with heels and a silky blouse, tucked in of course.

Buy for $154

When cooler weather hits us, a pair of tailored, well fitted shorts that can be dressed up or down are absolutely must have. We think the Alice & Olivia Cuff Shorts are absolutely to die for with their glamorous silver sheen. These shorts are flashy in such a subtly way, and can surprisingly be paired with a wide array of tops. We recommend wearing them with heels and a fitted woven button down for an intriguingly sexy look.

Buy for $198

These Couture Couture High-Waisted Pants remind me, on a purely abstract level, of a reverse mullet: party in the front, business in the back! If you stick close to your black trousers for work, remember that these ones can pull you out of the doldrums. White buttons march up the front high-waisted placket, while slit pocket are the only things adorning the back. Consider a white blouse like the one shown for a serious look. Wide waistband and zip fastening.

Buy for $750.00.