Shorts can be pretty controversial. I find that many of my clients fall in one of three categories: love ‘em, hate ‘em, or want to love them but hate ’em.

Finding your best short can be tricky if you’re someone who doesn’t feel comfortable showing their legs. Here are a few tips to help you find your perfect short!

1. Rise. I talked about this a few weeks ago in my denim newsletter. The same stands true for your shorts. Ideally, you want them to hit as close to the smallest part of your waist, which is typically an inch or so above the bellybutton. Refer to the denim post to see how to measure.

2. Inseam. An average shorts inseam is 3-4 inches, but the Spring trends have shown us that longer Bermuda styles are trending. To find your ideal inseam, look at your bare legs standing in the mirror. Take note of where your thigh begins to narrow and taper. Measure from your crotch to that spot and use this as a general rule of your perfect inseam length. You can also try on shorts that you have at home and see where they fall and add/subtract accordingly.

3. Fit. If you’re someone who is fuller in the thigh, a short that flares out a bit in the leg opening to allot for a fuller thigh is going to be more comfortable and flattering vs styles that are skin tight. You want to be able to fit a few fingers in between your thigh and the shorts leg opening.

4. To pleat or not to pleat? Pleats are very common in fashion right now on tailored short styles. Pleats have a widening effect on the body, so if you are someone who carries weight in their midsection or has a fuller thigh, you’re going to want to avoid them. However, if you’re someone who has narrow hips they will help to balance your top half. Often my clients with narrow hips also have a broad top half, so widening your bottom half will trick the eye to more balanced proportions.

5. Think beyond denim. I personally love a printed short for all of its styling possibilities! It’s so easy to pull a color from the print and style it with a basic top. I also love a shorts suit as an alternative to a dress for a night out or for a casual lunch meeting with a colleague paired with flats or sneakers. Shorts can certainly be worn in some industries and for some work functions, just make sure the length feels appropriate and the styling is polished and professional.

6. Prep your legs. Shaving is obvious, but making sure your skin is moisturized will help to showcase your legs. I love to put on a body oil to give my legs a little sheen when wearing anything short. I’ve linked my favorite one in the shopping link below.

Shorts are practical as we enter the summer months, so if they fit into your lifestyle I encourage you to find a pair that make you feel good! Life’s too short to skip the shorts!

Check out these 8 shorts looks that feature all different styles, perfect for your next summer event!