What Chic Women Over 60 Wear Instead of Shorts

By Liz Flynn Jul 17, 2023

Many women over 60 want to transform their wardrobe into something more mature and age-appropriate. Finding chic alternatives to shorts is a wonderful way to make that transition.

The key to switching out shorts for an alternative is to wear items that make you feel comfortable, confident, and elegant.

Maxi dresses, loose-fitting linen pants, and fun summer dresses are all excellent options.

Here are 15 chic ideas for what to wear instead of shorts if you’re over 60.

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Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses are a great alternative to shorts because they keep you cool without revealing too much of your legs.

Wear a flowy, boho-inspired maxi dress with a denim jacket and sandals for the perfect beach look. Wear a black maxi dress with heels and a statement necklace if you want a sleek evening ensemble.

Check out our selection of US-made maxi dresses that don’t skimp on quality.

Capri Pants

Wear a pair of cute capri pants that hit mid-calf or just below the knee for a stylish alternative to shorts this summer.

Cropped capri pants look amazing with a chic blouse, tank top, or t-shirt. Throw on a blazer or coat to transition your look from day to evening.

Culottes

Culottes are a fun alternative to shorts because they are flexible, comfortable, and trendy. Best of all, they’re totally age appropriate.

Culottes are wide-legged and range from knee to ankle-length, making them perfect for hot summer days. Create a cinched waist by wearing a belt with a tucked-in classic tee.

Our selection of wide-leg pants has plenty of sustainable culotte options.

Slim-Fit Pants

Some people over 60 don’t like wearing shorts because they think it looks inappropriate for their age. If you’re one of those people, find yourself a pair of high-quality slim-fit pants.

Slim-fit pants work well for any occasion, from casual lunch dates with friends to semi-formal evening events. Invest in a pair of well-tailored pants that will carry your wardrobe from fall into summer.

Shop our favorite work pants to find your perfect pair.

Midi Skirts

Midi skirts hit mid-calf or right above the ankle. This longer hemline is great because it still looks cute and flirty without trying too hard.

The best thing about midi skirts is that they’re wildly comfortable. Many of them have elastic waistbands and high-quality stretchy fabric.

Wear a light cotton midi skirt with a tucked-in tank top for a fun summer look.

Don’t miss our list of the best midi skirts that are sustainably made and affordable.

Bermuda Shorts

If your heart is still set on wearing shorts, go with a pair of Bermuda shorts. Bermuda shorts have a longer hemline, making them a great age-appropriate alternative to shorter styles.

You can pair Bermuda shorts with just about anything, from simple t-shirts to button-up collared tank tops. Wear them with heeled sandals to lengthen your legs, or wear some sneakers for a casual look.

Many American-made short brands offer various cuts and silhouettes.

Linen Trousers

Linen trousers are perfect for warmer weather. Linen is naturally breathable and lightweight, so you won’t feel overheated while wearing them.

Pair some breezy linen pants with a loose tunic or blouse, or wear high-waisted linen palazzo pants with a button-up shirt or t-shirt. Whatever you choose, you’re bound to feel comfortable and confident.

Explore our selection of the best linen pants to get started.

Fun Summer Dresses

Fun summer dresses are even better than shorts because it’s a great opportunity to let loose and express your personal style.

Embrace your chic side with a neutral cotton shirt dress, or create a flirty, carefree look with floral sundresses, boho maxis, and short-sleeve animal prints.

Explore our selection of beautiful summer dresses that are sustainable and affordable.

Long Skirts

Wear long skirts instead of shorts if you want more leg coverage without overheating. Long maxi skirts are breathable and breezy, which is amazing for spring and summer.

Create a timeless romantic outfit with a tiered maxi skirt and boho top. If minimalism is more your style, go with a solid-color maxi skirt and your favorite summer top.

Finish your look off with wedge heels or sandals, and you’re good to go!

Check out our selection of sustainable maxi skirts.

Joggers

Shorts are comfortable, but lightweight joggers are even better. Sweatpants or joggers are an excellent option for lounging, running errands, or simply relaxing.

You can wear cropped joggers instead of shorts to create a relaxed, carefree look. Wear your favorite fitted tee, or dress your look up with a button-up shirt or blouse.

Shop our selection of the best sustainable joggers that won’t break the bank.

Wrap Dresses

A wrap dress is a wonderful wardrobe staple that gives you the breathability of shorts with a touch of elegance.

Wrap dresses are extremely flattering on all body types, so you can feel confident and sexy when you wear one this summer.

Plus, wrap dresses come in various colors, patterns, and styles, from floral midi dresses to boho-inspired maxis. You can’t go wrong with this style of dress.

Leggings

Leggings are best to wear if you love shorts' flexibility and relaxed silhouette.

Leggings are stretchy, versatile, and flattering. You can still show off your legs without revealing too much skin, which is always a plus.

Wear leggings under dresses or with breezy blouses and tunics for an elegant outfit.

Don’t miss our selection of the best workout legging with side pockets.

Palazzo Pants

Palazzo pants are an easy way to create a stylish and relaxed outfit. Plus, their wide-leg silhouette is just as breathable as shorts.

Create an effortlessly chic summer look with high-waisted palazzo pants, a flowy blouse, and comfortable sandals.

Explore our selection of wide-leg trousers.

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are fun to wear instead of shorts if you’re over 60. They’re comfortable, flattering, and oh-so versatile.

Jumpsuits can be dressed up with heels, blazers, and statement handbags. They’re also great for more casual events like family barbecues, lunch dates with friends, or a day at the beach.

Peruse our selection of affordable jumpsuits that work for every season.

Dresses with Tights

If you love dresses but want to transition to a more mature look, try wearing your favorite dresses with tights underneath.

A dress with tights is an easy way to dress up this classic look. Tights don’t have just to be plain and black, either. Try fun styles like sheer or brightly colored tights.

Our favorite fair trade dresses look amazing with eco-friendly tights.

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About the Author: Liz Flynn

Liz Flynn is a freelance writer, fiber artist, and amateur art historian. She is passionate about making sustainable, ethical fashion accessible to everyone. In her spare time, Liz can be found crocheting, reading, hiking, or hanging out with her beloved dog, Atwood. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Art History and Education from UC Riverside.