Fashion & Style: Winter Shorts

Winter Shorts

Come March, everyone starts itching for spring, despite Mother Nature's plans. Swapping sundresses and T-shirts into your wardrobe sounds great, but the early spring can bring unpredictable weather.

Enter this season's chic and practical trend: winter shorts. When worn correctly, shorts are the perfect transitional item. The key is to layer with thicker fabrics to keep the look seasonally appropriate.

Use these tips to make the switch from pants to shorts look cool -- while staying warm.

1. Know what you're looking for.

It can be tricky to pull off a summer piece in the winter, so be sure to pick the right style and fabric. Choose heavier fabrics like tweed, corduroy, wool or flannel. And look for deep, rich colors like gray or jewel tones. As for length, go for mid-thigh to right-above-the-knee styles. Keep shorts fitted and slim to avoid looking like a parachute.

2. Embrace tights.

Wear heavy tights or leggings under thigh-grazing shorts. Black velvet and tweed shorts look great with black opaque tights. Or, try a brighter hue for a pop of color.

3. Dress up.

Shorts tend to be casual, so you need to add some oomph to make them office-appropriate. Our picks: Choose a statement necklace or a pair of trendy riding boots, and opt for closed-toe heels or booties to avoid looking like a summer bum.

4. Stay fitted on top.

Pairing shorts with well-tailored pieces on the top to stay sophisticated. Tuck in a silk blouse and pair with a heavy cardigan. Stay away from flimsy cotton t-shirts to keep the look warm and winter-appropriate.

Lauren Johnson is a journalist living in New York. Her work has appeared in Redbook and Allure.com, among other publications.

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