What to Wear When You Don’t Wear Shorts
If shorts are on your “do not wear” list, you’re not alone.
Every summer, I hear from readers asking: What can I wear instead of shorts when it’s hot out? For some, it’s about wanting more coverage. For others, it’s not about coverage at all—they just want something more comfortable or a little more polished. Whatever your reason, the good news is: there are plenty of stylish, warm-weather alternatives to shorts that keep you cool without sacrificing style.
Personally, I like shorts. They’re practical and sporty, and they make sense when I’m juggling work and three kids during those long, hot East Coast summer days. But I also get it—style is personal. And if shorts aren’t your thing, you deserve options that still feel effortless and chic.
And just to be clear—if you like wearing shorts, by all means, keep wearing them. Shorts can be stylish, flattering, and totally age-appropriate for everyone. With the right fit and thoughtful styling, they can even look incredibly chic.
And if the reason you avoid them is because you think your knees aren’t cute, I promise you—no one’s entering a “best knees” contest. Most of us are just out here trying to stay cool and feel good in what we’re wearing.
So today, we’re answering the question: What to wear when you don’t wear shorts? From breezy dresses and linen pants to cropped jeans and skorts, here are the best alternatives to shorts for women over 40.
The Best Alternatives to Shorts for Summer
1. Dresses: Easy, Breezy & Always Chic
Dresses are the easiest and most versatile alternative to shorts when it’s warm. They’re cool, comfortable, and effortlessly put-together—just throw one on, and you’re done. Whether you’re running errands, heading to lunch, or packing for vacation, a great dress works for almost anything. Keep it casual with sneakers or flat slides, or dress it up with sandals, a tote, and a few simple accessories. From breezy cotton to polished knits, there’s a style for every day of the week.
I own several of these and wear them constantly—they’re the kind of throw-on-and-go pieces that make getting dressed feel easy.
- Frank & Eileen Mini Harper Tee Shirt Dress, $168 |Great quality, 100% Cotton, flattering subtle high low hem that hits at the top of the knee.
- SPANX AirEssentials® Maxi Tank Dress $118 | Lightweight, breathable, just the right amount of stretch and the slit lets you move about without being too much.
- UNTUCKit Shirt Dress, $98 | I’m living in these, specifically from UNTUCKit, the fit is great, wonderful quality, can wear most of the them with heels or sneakers.
2. Casual Linen and Lightweight Pants
If pants feel too warm for summer, try a lightweight linen, an airy cotton blend, or a moisture-wicking fabric. These breathable options are designed to keep you cool—sometimes even cooler than shorts—thanks to their relaxed silhouettes and heat-friendly materials. A wide-leg linen pant with a tucked-in tank, or a crisp cotton style paired with a lightweight button-down, looks polished while still feeling effortless and comfortable.
Top Picks:
- Wide Leg Casual Beach Pants Cotton Linen, $37.99 | From Amazon, 10/10, lightweight, linen not see through and do not wrinkle.
- Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant, $99 | You can wear these to work with kitten heels or sneakers for a sporty look, GREAT for travel, breathable, and almost 20,000 rave reviews from customers.
- Drapey Denim Trouser, $88 | Not your typical denim, these are soft, easy and polished while super comfy, ideal for summer outfits.
3. Skirts and Skorts
Skirts and skorts are a great option if you like the ease of shorts but want a more polished feel. They offer the same comfort and freedom of movement, with a bit more versatility. Pair a cotton skort with a tee and sneakers for daytime, or try a flowy midi skirt with a tank and sandals for a lightweight, pulled-together look.
Top Picks:
- Poplin Drop Waist Midi Skirt, $34.97 | A fabulous color in a flattering fit and priced well. But you can find these everywhere. Pair with a simple tee and you favorite summer slides.
- 100% Organic Cotton Poplin Tiered Maxi Skirt, $59.90 | Another sweet option, longer, fuller, pair with a top that fits closer to the body.
- Tee Time High Rise 17″ Skort, $69.00 | I love these, a bit more polished than basic shorts, but still sporty and easy to move in.
What to Wear Instead of Shorts: Final Thoughts
You don’t have to wear shorts to dress for summer. You just need the right mix of breathable fabrics, flattering silhouettes, and versatile pieces that suit your life and style.
From dresses and linen pants to polished skorts and lightweight jumpsuits, these are the best alternatives to shorts for women over 40. Whether you want more coverage, better comfort, or just a change—there’s something here that can help you build a summer wardrobe that works.
👇 Keep Reading:
- What to Do With Clothes That No Longer Fit Hanging in Your Closet
- The Best White Jeans That Aren’t See-Through
- Are Capris Still in Style in 2025? Here’s What to Wear Instead
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Thank you, Meg, for this post. I’ve been thinking about what I’m going to wear this summer, and haven’t come up with an answer. Due to skin cancer surgeries, I’m not comfortable in shorts. And yes, aging has hit with the broken veins. Guess I need to go shopping and try on some summer pants. Ugh. What are chinos? I’ve always shied away from linen bc I hate wrinkled clothes. Feeling a bit lost. I love your ideas and information you share.
I just returned home from a 4 hour shopping spree as I am desperately trying to change my style. I just happened upon your post and I love your suggestions. However, I am a 5’2” overweight pear shaped woman with huge hips, thighs and calves. And LOTS of veins and dimples. I’ve tried most of the styles you suggest and they do not flatter my figure at all. Not to mention that I loathe the clingy fabrics. I’m glad to see cotton/linen making a comeback and I love the high waisted wide leg pants but they only look good with shirts tucked in and that just ain’t happening here! While I appreciate how you are helping other women, showing how styles look on larger figured women would be most helpful for someone like myself.
None of your links work. This has to be the most worthless article ever. Every time I was interested in seeing or buying a pair of pants or a dress, the link will only take me to the top of your article, I thought the whole point was that you make money from the links. I guess you’re missing the whole point. What a colossal waste of my time.
Imagine talking to a person like this? Obviously there’s a an issue that I’m not aware of, but what do you think, Mary, I’m out here just trying to annoy you with broken links?
I’m new to your site & look forward to your styling suggestions & recommendations.
Just read your post on capri pants and in the UK they aren’t even really back in shops except some outlets in garden centres which tend to sell clothes for really old ladies (I’m nearly 67 and wouldn’t dream of wearing capri pants). I’ve just finished reading about shorts and alternatives. I do not wish to inflict my varicose veined legs on anyone (I hope to arrange a private operation in the New Year)so I dont wear shorts but have cropped, ankle grazers, linen and jumpsuits instead.