I took a look around a nearby mall yesterday after my haircut and thought I'd check out some shorts that caught my eye, since we've talked about shorts lately. These two examples are prime illustrations of my problem with casual summer shorts, and I thought I'd ask for advice, feedback, verification, or suggestions...

1. In Banana Republic. I think the paisley print is cute, but all the printed shorts were only available in 4.5" inseams. Why? Even though I like the fit on these and think they *almost* work, I think they're too short for me. Am I right?

2. At Gap. I love the length! They had these rolled up on display, but the roll wasn't stitched. I love the color and the ombré effect. BUT the color change from blue to white hits at a spot that seems to emphasize my widest part, so sadly, these were left behind. I know my eye is "highly sensitized" to this area, as Angie says, so I'm looking for honest impartial opinions -- am I correct that this is best left behind? It would probably have worked better with a different top, but I didn't think to try that until too late. And yes, I see the wrinkles on the front, but trust me, these are not tight. I think that fabric just looks wrinkly from the moment you put them on and sit down once or twice.

I'm in no rush to buy more shorts -- I looked at what I have from previous years and they're ok, although a little boring (or maybe I should say basic). Solid black, solid navy, solid olive, solid grey. It seems every time I find something a bit more fun, they're not flattering on me (the Zara shorts being the happy exception, but they're also a bit more dressy).

I don't always trust my eye when it comes to showing my legs, so I welcome your feedback. Be honest but gentle.