With the weather heating up as of late, we have all been reaching for our trustiest pair of denim shorts more often than we would like to admit. The humble piece, while a sartorial staple for our sunny climate, is hardly the most stylish contender in our closets, making it difficult to create standout looks with. Our solution? Looking to the best-dressed A-listers for the ultimate summer style inspiration to keep us cool and looking chic at the same time.
Models Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber’s pick: a layering piece in their preferred style that both elevates a basic ensemble and keeps them warm in a colder venue. Gigi Hadid exemplified the perfect look for a casual weekend out and sported denim separates in different shades of blue. Meanwhile, Lily-Rose Depp showed off her fashion prowess in an understated combination of a leotard-style bodysuit, denim shorts, chunky sneakers and the It-girl accessory du jour, a pair of wired Apple earphones.
Korean model Irene Kim donned a printed pair of denim shorts in a sunny hue, while her friend, former Girls Generation member Jessica Jung opted to match her pair with a dose of pink and girly accessories. Lisa Manoban, Blackpink’s youngest, paired hers with fringed tops, ultra cropped sweaters and boots true to her edgy personal style.
Below, the best looks to cop from these celebrities that feature the warm weather staple.

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Hailey Bieber: Layer with a blazer
The model dresses up a casual pairing of a cropped top and denim shorts by matching them with an oversized structured blazer, statement boots, and a crossbody bag.

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Lily-Rose Depp: Athleisure meets balletcore
TikTok’s favourite It-girl keeps cool in the sun with a figure-hugging plum coloured bodysuit, mid-rise denim shorts, colourful shades and white dad sneakers.

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Hailey Bieber: Add a sheer layer
For a breezier look, layer your pair with a midriff-baring top, understated jewellery and a see-through button down like Hailey does here.

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Jessica Jung: Channeling Barbie
If a demure, feminine look is more your speed, copy the Korean singer’s pairing of denim shorts with a knitted pink top, headband, and ballet flats with socks.

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Paloma Elsesser: Get beach-ready
The model nails tropical style in a printed bikini set and denim Bermudas, finishing off the look with waist beads and a pair of gold hoops.

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Irene Kim: All over print
Turn heads like the Korean model in a vibrant printed pair of shorts, a matching top and bag, as well as strappy, embellished sandals.

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Gigi Hadid: Double denim
The model pairs denim Bermudas with an oversized denim button-down shirt and black sneakers for the perfect weekend look.

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Alexander McQueen denim shirt, $1,520
Available at Alexander McQueen.

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Kendall Jenner: The off-duty model look
Kendall’s go-to ensemble on a casual day? A crisp white button down and minimal accessories to elevate the classic crop top and distressed denim shorts combination.

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Lisa Manoban: Blinged up
Turn a humble pair of denim shorts into a party look with a bedazzled, fringed top like Lisa does here.

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Lisa Manoban: Bare it all
The singer puts a fresh spin on layering by pairing denim shorts with a cropped sweater and a tank top. Edgy accessories such as necklaces, a wide belt and boots complete her look.