War has been waging in the fashionscape. For many seasons now, it’s been the quiet luxury lovers vs the Y2K maximalists, battling to prove their style reigns supreme. However, it finally seems that a peace treaty has arisen between the two camps - in the form of low-waisted, baggy Bermuda shorts.
A perfect marriage of slouch and sophistication, Bermuda shorts are the ultimate compromise. The tailored garments originated in the early 20th century as part of British military and colonial uniforms, designed for comfort in tropical climates like Bermuda - where the name stuck.
Traditionally cut just above the knee, they were adopted in the 1940s and 50s as a modest yet breezy option for both men and women, later drifting into business casualwear. Though considered prim or outdated for years, Bermuda shorts have cycled in and out of fashion, often associated with dads on holiday or preppy uniforms.
© GC ImagesToday, Gen Z is reclaiming Bermuda shorts with fresh energy. Instead of leaning into their conservative roots, young women are subverting expectations - pairing oversized Bermudas with crop tops, shirting, tube socks, and kitten heel boots for a streetwear spin. The silhouette remains particualr popular in Scandinavian fashion husb such as Copenhagen and Sweden, with influencers hitting the streets in the breezy bottoms left, right and centre.
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© ImaxtreeStyling the hero piece with a simple tank top, a clean-cut blazer or crisp white tee, Bermuda baddies are enlisting the help of the short to help execute the perfect Y2K-meets-clean-girl aesthetic. Similarly, brands from Prada to Reformation have reimagined them in bold prints, leather, and denim, proving their endlessly appealing versatility.
The silhouette was particularly popular on the AW26 runways. Emporio Armani debuted lightweight, metallic options that paid homage to the brand's iconic tailoring. Similarly, Moschino leaned into tailored whimsy, pairing pale grey cuts with spiralling, dandy-esque off-cuts. Fendi took a different route, imbuing their knee-skimmers with utilitarian adornments and cargo features.
© Pretty WomanComfortable in the extreme (no risk of flashing anyone on the tube here) and suitable for casual in-office wear, Bermuda shorts have been wholeheartedly adopted by playful dressers seeking a touch of polished practicality in their everyday.
Discover how to style Bermuda shorts below and ignite your summer-into-autumn style with some androgynous flair.
How to style Bermuda shorts:
© Getty ImagesSleek Monochrome
Lean into a matchy-matchy palette with a tailored twist. Bermuda short suits are having a major moment - striking the perfect balance between polished and playful for everything from office hours to after-dark dates.
© Getty ImagesWhite Tee
You can never go wrong with a classic white tee. This timeless staple effortlessly elevates any look, letting your preppy new Bermuda shorts take centre stage while keeping things crisp, clean, and effortlessly cool.
© Getty ImagesSchool Girl Chic
Channel your inner geek with the preppiest combination of Bermuda shorts, stockings and loafers. Not only is the look practical, but oh-so comfortable too. Academia à la mode.
© Getty ImagesSummer Whites
Want to break the mould? Opt for a crisp white pair of Bermuda shorts - perfect for both sun-soaked getaways and stylish city strolls. Just keep them far from any red wine - consider this your only warning.
© Getty ImagesSuited and Booted
Nothing says confidence like a double-breasted blazer. Pair yours with some matching Bermudas and knee-high boots. Feminine - with a touch of baggy, boyish charm.
© Getty ImagesTank Trick
Dipping your toe into the world of Gen Z style? A simple tank top is set to become your new best friend. Pared back with a polished feel, the humble tank marries effortlessly with these slouchy bottoms - creating a sleek blend of tight and tent-like.
© Getty ImagesUnapologetically Gen Z
Are they jorts? Are they cargos? Are they Bermudas? Keep them guessing with a totally Gen Z-coded look consisting of the oversized silhouettes, a slogan tee, studded belt and Kangol beret. Go hard or go home, right?
Best Bermuda shorts to shop for 2026:
Drew Short
Reformation
Available in two timeless tones - black and rich brown - Reformation's Drew Shorts are a highly versatile, wearable staple for stylish skirt avoidants.
Mid-Rise Denim Bermuda Jorts
Mango
A halfway house between Bermuda bottoms and jorts, Mango's affordable denim slacks are topping our summer wish list.
Tailored Wool-Blend Bermuda Shorts
Claudie Pierlot
A luxurious option topped with chic button detailing, Claudie Pierlot's Bermuda shorts will pair perfectly with heeled mules and a classic white tee.
Navy Compact Cotton Bermuda Short
Whistles
Crafted from soft-touch cotton with a knee-grazing length, Whistles' navy shorts feature an elegant mid-to-low waist, a straight-leg silhouette and practical pockets for easy in-office styling.
Crepe Pleated Bermuda Shorts
Michael Kors
Last year, I treated myself to a pair of Michael Kors Crepe Pleated Bermuda Shorts - and they did not disappoint. The breezy bottoms have become a summer hero piece, primed for both casual days spent deskside and sun-soaked weekends.
Black Squid Linen Boyfriend Shorts
Sassy Squid
For a blissfully beachy aesthetic, look to Sassy Squid. The London-based brand is brimming with leisurely linen pieces to consider, and these airy black bottoms are perfect for days spent basking oceanside.
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