Denim Shorts. Isn’t summer in London just incredible?

After the long thaw, when everything heats up and comes alive, there’s this unmistakable energy that draws you out of the house. Suddenly, life feels human again — dinners alfresco, open-air performances, or saying “yes” to things you might normally pass on.

On Sunday night, I found myself in the basement of Sadler’s Wells East, at what can only be described as a ballet rave. Dancers in distressed lace hooded bodysuits and suspenders — designed by none other than Dior’s former creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri — moved instinctively around the audience, in unison, on the dance floor. It was magnetic. (Sadly, it was the closing night, but keep an eye on Sadler’s Wells for more immersive contemporary dance experiences).

The performance was breath taking, but so was the crowd. I found myself in excellent company:

• Rosamund Pike, effortlessly chic in dark sunglasses and a flowing white cotton dress
• Charlie Casely-Hayford in an oversized tee and cropped cargos
• His partner, Sophie Ashby, in a striking printed shorts co-ord

I wore my favourite sporty nylon cargos — a nod to the trousers I used to dance in.

Denim Shorts

But it was my friend’s denim shorts that really caught my eye.

They hit just above the knee and had the ideal width: relaxed off the body but still flattering. It reminded me just how good denim shorts can be (at any age) when they hit all the right places.

The Denim Shorts Edit: What to Consider

Colour

• Darker shades = more formal
• Lighter washes = more casual
• White = polished and refined, especially just above the knee paired with shirting and a simple sandal

Length

• Identify your favourite part of your thigh and tailor the length to that
• Just above the knee works universally — it’s typically where the thigh narrows

Rise

• Whether you prefer high, mid, or low-rise, factor the rise into your overall length measurement

Details

• Distressing or fraying feels more balanced on longer shorts and styles well with a blazer and low-profile trainer for city wear

The Shoe

• A refined or feminine shoe balances the masculinity of longer denim shorts
• Wear strappy sandal, Mary Jane, or a kitten heel for a flattering push-pull effectMy Picks (And What I Wore to Sadler’s)

My Picks (And What I Wore to Sadler’s)

Have you been to any incredible performances lately? I’d love to hear about them.

Have a great week,
Penny. 

P.S.
If you find a particular item tricky to buy (trousers are a classic example), we know how to find the version that works for you and show you how to wear it effortlessly. We’re now booking for September / October, and I’m excited to share that Nadyia is back from maternity leave!
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Photo Credit: Net-A-Porter