Should I go back to buy any of these?

I was looking for shorts on the weekend, because it won't be long before our Aussie summer makes anything else unbearable. But the only ones I could find seemed to be either cheek-hugging or matronly.

Can you give me a little perspective on these please? If you think I can do better, say so. Suggestions for where to look in Aussie shops get bonus points

I did find a dress in a beautifully cool fabric, but it's got that waist detail that I'm so drawn too but find kind of odd to wear. I like the touch of military in the cuffs and pockets, but does the top seem like it's made for a larger cup-size? It doesn't seem to sit well above the waist. Or maybe I should size down, I'm just worried about the elastic waist combined with my pot belly.

1. black shorts
2. denim shorts
3. khaki shorts (I messed with the colours to get the detail to show up more)
4 & 5. dress

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14 years ago

modgrl

(website)

Veteran

I love the denim shorts in 2. They give you shape and are a perfect length. The other ones are not as flattering. Not crazy about the dress.It just seems kinda shapeless on you. I don't think the wide shoulders are really that flattering for you.

Suz

I like the denim shorts in #2; they could even be a bit MORE tapered, I think. They give you nice curves.

As for the dress, I think you can do better. It would look good with a wide belt and I believe it is meant to be loose and blousy on the top...but, having said that, it still seems a bit TOO wide on top, and in the fitting room lights, at least, the colour doesn't flatter you. You, of course, know better how it would look IRL.

anne

I agree with Suz on every point! Shorts are such a pain I find, but last summer I had enough dresses so I hardly had to wear them!

missvee

I agree on the shorts, keep #2 and return the others. The legs are too wide but the length is good. I'm not crazy about the dress as shown, but it may have possibilities in a smaller size, with a belt and a pendant necklace. Something like this doesn't have much 'hanger appeal' but could look pretty good when you get it accessorized.

Inge

Moderator

I too like the shorts in picture 2, stringy. They could be quite versatile. I kind of liked the dress from the side, but the front view isn't doing it for me. It looks too big all over? I do like the idea though, perhaps you could try the smaller size?

The second pair of shorts looks really great on you! I have to confess, I've given up on short in favor of skirts because it's so hard to find flattering ones-- but you've done it!

The color and shape of the dress don't let your pretty shape or delicate coloring shine like something else might. I think you can find something comfy and pretty that suits a bit more.

Queen Mum

another vote for shorts #2. Everything else can stay in the store.

Jonesy

I also like the shorts in 2, but, at least for me, when it's super-duper hot I just don't want to wear really form-fitting shorts like these. I also like the shorts in 3--they seem comfy and they're cute. I like the silhouette of the dress--it's supposed to be somewhat slouchy I'm thinking (cool and breezy on a hot day)...Not 100% sold on the color for you though...

Just my two cents!

fern

Hmm, I think #1 looks good. Are those black linen, Stringy?
Can someone explain their preference for 2?
I am trying to understand proportions and fitting - what makes a flattering pair of shorts?

Lantana

Hi Stringy, speaking Aussie to Aussie, #2shorts are a great cut for you and will suit the spring and autumn ends of our summer. High summer, however, will have you scrabbling to peel any of those 3 shorts styles off sweat-prickling legs. I suggest Billabong shorts in denim; tho heavy, denim wicks moisture away from the skin. What is the dress fabric? I've found lawn to be the best for really stinking hot days, even better than linen. I think lightweight dresses, including maxis, beat shorts hands down for cooling because they allow air circulation. And they're simple. And sometimes you can get away without a bra. Try birdsnest.com.au. They have delicious summer dresses. I haven't bought from this site yet but frequently visit for inspiration.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

Loving those denim shorts!

I also like the dress but am not wild about the colour against your skin tone. Could be the lighting though - so I leave that up to your eye.

banananutmuffin

Active Member

Another vote here for #2 shorts. I like the dress if it's the look you're going for, but it's not super flattering on your cute figure.

rute

another vote for 2!

nancylee

The denim shorts, definitely. And I like the shape of the dress, but it does seems a little baggy on top...and I echo Angie's concerns about the color.

Maybe you could keep looking for a similar dress?

stringy

Thanks everyone - work got busy so I didn't get to reply sooner.

I'm glad you all liked the #2 pair of shorts! I liked them much more once I saw them in the photo. I'll go back and grab them. They'll be too hot for mid-summer, but just right for casual days now and in late summer.

I like the feel of the dress, but agree with you all that it's just not working for me. Perhaps I'll encourage a friend to buy it instead, so I can enjoy it vicariously

Fern, the #1 shorts were a linen/cotton blend. I think a flattering pair of shorts depends very much on your body shape. Tapered and close-fitting work well on me, by making me seem a little more curvy. Boxy shapes like #1 and #3 make me look... a bit stumpy? I'm quite short. But I can see where someone with longer legs or a curvier butt might like the shape they give her.

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