OK, I'm finally coming back to this post. Thanks, all, for the thought-provoking feedback. I see opinions are all over the map, which is not exactly unexpected. These are a bit trendy and as with all trends, you're guaranteed some poison eyes. I have plenty of poison eyes myself, but this style is not one of them. Yes, these would be for casual wear. My days are mostly casual, and especially in summer, my style goes a bit more casual than the rest of the year when I dress up a bit more than my life really warrants. Honestly, no one would bat an eye if I wore crappy tees and sweats every day, but I don't feel fab that way. I think this style of short can be worn with a top like the one I'm wearing in these photos and do just fine for a casual day running errands or working in my studio.
When I was young, I gravitated toward variations on this style (although, mostly shorter ones back then), and I do think there's an element of flattery that a curved hem on shorts can provide, especially with a fluid fit. I'm not sure these are "the ones" but they're not expensive, so I would still consider them. However, I think I'd rather get something in a pattern that I can wear with my solid summer tops.
Even though y'all know of my uneasy relationship with my legs, for some reason, I start getting desensitized -- or perhaps more accepting -- a few weeks into the summer. Maybe comfort just starts to overcome my eye, or I get used to seeing my legs. There is also a rebellious streak in me that says, "So what, I'm almost 50 and I have imperfect legs with veins and cellulite, and I still wear shorts because it's HOT, so if anyone doesn't like it, too bad!" So I wouldn't say these are outside of my comfort zone as far as you might think. They pass the sitting test quite well, and the length is not *so* short. However, the quality is not the best. I'm thinking I may pass on this particular pair, but keep an eye out for others. I like the Asos ones below (I'd wear them lower and looser than the model). And then there are the Asos basketball shorts that appeal to me too. But I have to say that these feel pretty good on me, and I felt pretty good wearing them.
Thanks for helping me see these with impartial eyes! I truly appreciate how helpful everyone here is.
