The top 5 effortlessly chic summer shorts trends according to the runways

The weather is heating up and that means it's time to purchase your summer wardrobe's hero piece - a great pair of shorts.

But with so many options on the market it can be a tad overwhelming, so we've scoured the runways in New York, Milan, London and Paris to bring you a curated edit of the only trends you need to know about.

Don't worry your trusted denim cutoffs can still be on rotation. But to look trendy, you're going to want to expand your horizons with snazzier, less practical options.

Think itty-bitty bottoms that can be confused for underwear! 

Read on for the top five shorts styles you should make room for in your closet.

Who wears short shorts? You do! Or at least you will this season! Isabel Marant teamed red leather shorts -the same size as knickers - with a matching jacket, and a suede handbag

Micro shorts 

Who wears short shorts? You do! Or at least you will this season!

Micro bottoms popped up on more than one catwalk from Isabel Marant to Bally, thus convincing us they are a must!

Designers like Gucci Creative Director, Sabato De Sarno, showed off the leg baring garment's versatility by styling them with pretty much anything.

Isabel Marant teamed red leather shorts -the same size as knickers - with a matching jacket, and a suede handbag.

Bally styled a sleek black pair with a blue button down and a tailored blazer, for the the perfect day-to-night look.

Don't want to invest in a garment that will mostly likely be a one-season-wonder?

Just cut a pair of jeans you never wear anymore for the same effect. 

Designers like Gucci Creative Director, Sabato De Sarno, showed off their versatility by pairing them with pretty much anything

Sweaters are synonymous with fall/winter but light knitwear is ideal for warm summer days

Knit bottoms 

Sweaters are synonymous with fall/winter but light knitwear is ideal for warm summer days.

Knitwear, especially in the form of crochet, can evoke a vintage or bohemian vibe, which resonates with those looking for unique, handmade, and artisanal pieces.

Open knits are light and airy enough for summer wear and can be worn in a number of different ways.

A model walked the runway at JW Anderson in roomy pink shorts with a fold over detail. The cute bottoms were styled with a green leather jacket and white tank top. 

At Max Mara, they were teamed with a coordinating sweater, while Casablanca styled a striped pair with a bright orange jumper.

To elevate the soft separate, try teaming them with a chic blouse or a tucked-in button-down shirt. 

Wear heeled sandals or mules for a more polished appearance. This is great look for an afternoon brunch or casual dinner.

At Max Mara, knit shorts were teamed with a coordinating sweater, while Casablanca styled a striped pair with a bright orange jumper

Paperbag waist shorts 

Paperbag shorts feature a cinched waist that create a flattering silhouette.

Accentuating the waist and elongating the legs, this fit can be universally flattering on various body types.

The style was all the rage at Hermes in various fabrications. The French label  showed them with bra tops, thin seaters, blazers, and everything in between.

While Prada gave them a polished appearance with a tucked-in blouse. 

To create a stylish, summer look you want to play with proportions. 

Balance the volume of the shorts with more fitted or structured tops.  This creates a harmonious look and prevents the outfit from looking too baggy.

Paperbag shorts were all the rage at Hermes who showed them with bra tops, thin seaters, blazers, and everything in between

Prada gave them a polished appearance with a tucked-in blouse. To create a stylish, summer look you want to play with proportions

Bermuda shorts 

Bermuda shorts can easily transition from day to night.

They provide more coverage than shorter shorts, making them a comfortable and modest option.

Bermuda shorts in all fabrications offer a clean and polished look that can be dressed up or down at any time of year.

Blumarine elevated the separate including straight leg options in their summer showcase.

While Wrangler and STAUD collaborated on a pair of denim Bermuda shorts that boast a baggier finish and a flare hem.

Blumarine featured straight leg Bermuda shorts in their summer showcase

Wrangler and STAUD collaborated on a pair of denim Bermuda shorts that boast a baggier finish and a flare hem

The rise of the athleisure trend has made sporty shorts a staple in both the high-end designer market and the fast fashion space

Sporty shorts 

The rise of the athleisure trend has made sporty shorts a staple in both the high-end designer market and the fast fashion space.

Designed for movement and comfort in lightweight and breathable materials, these bottoms are ideal for both physical activities and casual wear.

Miu Miu elevated the feel of the athletic garment styling them with polos, blazers and preppy button downs for summer 24.

For the perfect laidback look, pair sporty shorts with a basic t-shirt or tank top. Add sneakers and a baseball cap and you're good to go.

Or give them a fashion forward twist with a cropped top and blazer. Slip into your favorite high heels, and accessorize with a chic belt bag worn across the chest.