Some of my clients do not wear shorts because of their lack of coverage. I suggest casual skirts and dresses as a breezy alternative, but it’s not a slam dunk because they simply want to wear some type of trouser. That makes the Summery cropped pant awfully appealing because it’s casual, covered, relatively cool, and much like a pair of VERY long shorts. 

Granted, cropped pants are not as ventilating as a pair of shorts, but they are more ventilating than a full-length pair of pants and jeans. Here are some examples of the types of outfits these clients would wear when they substitute cropped pants for shorts.

1. Columned and Gauzy

This type of column of colour is popular because of its vertical integrity. The cardigan, top and cropped pants are low contrast or the same colour, thereby creating the columned effect. The sleeveless tank works well under the gauzy cardigan, and especially in air conditioning. Make sure you like the way the top looks without the cardigan too. Casual slides, sandals, espadrilles, and mules finish off the look.

M&S Button Detailed Midi Cardigan

2. Cargo, Tee and Sneakers

Combine a pair of lightweight cotton cargo pants or chinos with a semi-tucked tee or tank. Add a pair of sneakers, and a casual bag. Here the white sneakers work well with the white patterned top. You can sub a casual breezy blouse for the tee if you like, and add a pair of sandals for a utility pretty boho-lite vibe.

M&S Tencel Cargo Tapered Cropped Trousers

3. Tie-Front Top or Blouse with Cropped Pants

This version is dressier because of the shirt style and more formal fabric of the pants. The strappy sandals add a bit of glam. The shirt is something you can tie with a regular button-through shirt or blouse, if it’s not already tied. Tie the tie a little LOWER on the waist than you expect for a flattering and practical effect. I’d like to see this combination with white sandals, slides, mules or sneakers.

LOFT Plus Pull On Wide Leg Pants

4. Wide Patterned Bottom and Solid Top

This is a much liked combination with clients because the bottoms make a statement, and the roomy fit is almost as breezy as shorts. This type of bottom is lovely and elegant when it’s soft and flowing. Match up the bottoms with a top that picks up a colour in the pattern. Wear the top tucked or untucked. Finish things off with Summer shoes of your choosing, and a cropped denim jacket for the chill of the air conditioning. Add jewellery, headgear, watch and eyewear as desired.

Anthropologie Odette Swan Printed Trousers