I wouldn't dismiss it out of hand. (How's that from someone who is all about dressing for image in the workplace!) But I'm with Suz that the HLs might be harder to incorporate into a professional setting at a senior level because the style, although dressy, originates from a casual utility pant.
My perspective is that most people in NA still think of shorts on women as casual attire. That association would make me feel more comfortable in shorts which used professional style bottoms, like suit trousers or skirts, as an inspiration. I think it would also make the connection between the shorts and the rest of your outfit more seamless.
