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Jorts, capris and pyjama pants: What to wear instead of a midi skirt this summer
- 39 minutes ago
- 4 min read
If you’re bored of wearing your midi skirts this summer – here are 5 stylish alternatives.
The midi skirt is arguably the most dependable wardrobe hero for summer – being versatile enough to dress up or dress down, universally flattering and simple enough to go with almost all your pieces.
But this season, it seems the old faithful is taking a break with the likes of jorts, capris and silky pyjama trousers – such as the viral wide-leg ‘Zara death pants’ – taking hold on fashion fanatics.
As to why the trends seem to be shifting from skirts to trousers, “it’s about movement,” says stylist Oriona Robb.
“A midi skirt asks you to be careful, small steps, watch the slit, adjust when you sit. Trousers and longer shorts let you move through a day without thinking about the fabric as much.”
So if you’re looking for a practical but stylish alternative to the midi skirt, here are some summer top picks…
Jorts
Longline denim shorts aren’t going anywhere, but Robb says the secret to styling them is to pretend they’re a tailored trouser.
“Pair them with a crisp linen shirt tucked in, then a heeled sandal or a loafer,” she says, to avoid looking too casual.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to lean into the streetwear vibe of jorts, wear them with a slight oversized T-shirt and slimline trainers or Mary Jane flats.
Pairing with leather or suede accessories can help make jorts feel a little more grown-up, whether styled with a shirt of a Tee.
H&M White Linen Shirt, £27.99
Weekday Monterey Low Rise Denim Shorts, £25 (were £39.99)
Schuh Lusan Split Toe Leather Ballet in Brown, £50
Tailored Bermuda short
The slightly more sophisticated alternative to jorts is the tailored Bermuda short.
“A well-cut Bermuda short with a longline jacket or oversized blazer is definitely one of the more sophisticated summer options nobody’s talking about enough,” says Robb.
Much like the jort, paired with flats like loafers, ballet pumps or even square-toed flip-flops, the footwear is the most transformative part that can dress up or dress down an outfit.
Unlike shorter shorts, which can often feel more trend-led or best suited for casual occasions, Bermuda shorts are remarkably versatile. It’s best to pair them with minimalist tailoring and an oversized button-down shirt for an effortless office-ready look, or style them with raffia accessories and simple strappy sandals for an elegant take on summer city dressing.
“They give you the coverage and ease [people] want from a midi skirt, without the practical headaches.”
M&S Linen Blend High Waisted Belted Bermuda Shorts, £36
Cos Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag, £119
Capri pants
Love them or hate them, capris are firmly back in the fashion cycle.
The trick to pulling them off lies in the length, Robb says: “They should hit at the narrowest part of the calf, never mid-calf, which shortens the leg on anyone.”
The trick is to balance the top half and bottom half. This could mean opting for a cropped-length track top (also currently trending thanks to lingering World Cup hysteria), or a baggy, oversized shirt that provides just the right amount of slouch to compliment the fitted capris.
“A pointed flat, a kitten heel or a strappy sandal all elongate the leg. Trainers flatten the whole look, so I’d avoid them with capris specifically.”
The Couture Club Funnel-Neck Track Jacket, £85
Mint Velvet Black Cotton Blend Capri Trousers, £59 (were £99)
Whistles Green Toe Post Kitten Heel Mule, £95 (were £125)
Pyjama pants
Silky pyjama-style trousers and lightweight floaty trousers have become a heatwave favourite thanks to their comfort, but Robb says styling is all about contrast.
“Silky or lacy pyjama-style trousers need one hard, structured element [such as] sharp sunglasses or a stacked heel, otherwise they look more like loungewear rather than luxury.”
Her styling mantra is simple: if you’re working with fluid fabrics, pair them with sharp accessories to balance and create tensions, “rather than like you’ve wandered out in your nightwear”.
A linen waistcoat and wedged heels can turn drawstring or elasticated pyjama pants into smart and chic summer wear.
Massimo Dutti Linen Melange Waistcoat with Buttons, £39.95 (was £99.95)
Mango Satin Lace-Trim Pyjama Trousers, £45.99
Balloon trousers
For those after something a little more trend-led, balloon trousers are the perfect alternative, and just as comfortable as pyjama pants.
“Balance is the whole game,” says Robb. “The volume is in the leg, so keep everything else fitted – a tank, a fitted T-shirt or a cropped jacket.”
Cinching the waist where possible can also help stop this silhouette crowning you entirely.
Despite their dramatic shape, Robb believes balloon trousers are surprisingly flattering.
“[Balloon trousers] are genuinely one of the more flattering summer trouser shapes because they skim and flow out from the body.”
With their delicate volume and drape, they’re the perfect alternative to linen and silk. Choose a clean slate in a basic shade and pair them with a lace-trimmed camisole and jewel-embellished sandals or a scoop-neck tank and woven ballet flats for a more city-friendly look.
Zara Volume Sarouel Trousers, £27.99
Ancient Greek Sandals Saionara Beads, £190
