White shorts might seem basic, but they’re one of the most versatile pieces in my warm-weather wardrobe. I packed these Vineyard Vines white shorts for my trip to Sarasota, Florida last month. We spent the first few days shooting blog content, and then Paul joined me for a week’s vacation, and the shorts stayed in rotation as part of my spring travel capsule.
When I got home and looked through the pictures, I had to laugh—almost every outfit followed the same basic formula with just a few minor variations. Apparently, when I find something that works, I really commit!
One thing stood out: every single outfit had a patterned top—whether it was stripes, a graphic print, or a classic button-up. Of course, white shorts work just as well with solid tops, but since I wasn’t layering, the prints helped keep these looks from feeling too plain.
Maybe variety is overrated. Sometimes, a handful of simple go-to combos are all you really need. Today, I’m sharing how I’ve been wearing these white shorts on repeat—and why this easy outfit formula just works.
How I’m Styling White Shorts This Season
The white shorts I’ve been wearing on repeat are these Vineyard Vines Herringbone Stretch Cotton Shorts. The subtle herringbone texture gives them a polished feel, and the 98% cotton fabric has just a touch of elastane for comfort without sacrificing structure.
They hold their shape, wash well, and have become a go-to in my warm-weather wardrobe. In fact, they were one of the first items that went into my suitcase for this second trip to Florida!
Vineyard Vines shorts, also at Bloomies (8) // EVEREVE Shayla Pullover sold out, option (M) // Jeffrey Campbell boat shoe in Camel Brush (8.5) // Tom Ford sunnies // similar bag
I’m wearing the 3 1/2″ version, but they also come in a 5″ version, if you prefer a longer length. And if white isn’t your thing, these shorts come in a bunch of other colors too. I’m tempted to add the navy… or maybe even the bold “black raspberry” next!
Sizing notes: They run true to size, or you may want to size down if you’re between sizes. I ordered my usual size 8 and they feel perfect—plenty of comfort without being too loose. I didn’t try the 6, so it’s hard to say for sure, but I like having a little extra room in my shorts, and these fit just right for that.
I’m clearly loving a striped sweater this season! This red and white pullover is an EVEREVE find, and it’s made from a soft, breathable cotton-blend knit. The vertical stitching adds subtle texture, and the ribbed cuffs with gold buttons give it a polished feel with just the right amount of detail. I ordered the medium for a more relaxed fit, but I’d say it runs true to size.
And I picked up this navy and white striped pullover during last summer’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but it’s sold out. so I linked up a similar sweater.
Vineyard Vines shorts, also at Bloomies (8) // similar pullover sweater (S) // Jeffrey Campbell boat shoe in Camel Brush (8.5) // similar bag
I wore these Jeffrey Campbell boat shoes with both of those outfits, and I was surprised by how much I liked this new/old trend once I tried them. I know some of you will say you’ve been wearing them for years, and they’re definitely a classic, but they haven’t exactly been trending for some time.
That said, they’re definitely having a moment right now, and I’m kind of here for it. I almost brought them with me on this trip to Florida, but decided to save the packing space at the last minute. They’re really comfortable and such a great alternative to sneakers—especially with shorts.
Jeffrey Campbell boat shoe in Camel Brush (8.5)
I also wore these white shorts with this pink and white striped sweater, which is sold out, but this is similar. For a fun twist, I paired the outfit with green sneakers that have white and pink accents.
Vineyard Vines shorts (8) // simlar sweater (S) // Steve Madden Verdict Mesh Sneaker (8.5) // Tom Ford sunnies
Another striped top that works surprisingly well with these shorts is this pinstriped button-up shirt. It has long sleeves with button tabs (I keep them cuffed at all times) and a cropped silhouette that gives it a chic, modern feel.
In this case, I wore the shirt and shorts over a blue swimsuit so I could head straight to the pool when I arrived at my hotel. I kept it casual with flip-flops, but I’ve also worn this outfit with more elevated leather slides for a slightly dressier vibe.
Vineyard Vines shorts ((8) // EVEREVE Aiden Crop Shirting sold out, similar (S) // beek Sunbeam Flip Flops (8) // similiar straw tote
Another easy way to wear white shorts is with a graphic tee. This one is sold out, but I still wanted to share the look because we got a great shot of the rear pocket’s button tab detail on the shorts—it’s a subtle design detail that gives them a more refined feel.
And finally, I wore these shorts last night to dinner with a solid v-neck top… so I guess I’m breaking a little bit from the white-shorts-plus-stripes formula here at the end of the post. But obviously, there are so many ways to wear white shorts.
This look was super simple, but we were heading to a BBQ place for dinner, and it was a warm, humid night, so I kept it ultra casual with leather sneakers and a woven shoulder bag.
Vineyard Vines shorts (8) // LNA Dessa Muscle Tee (M) // VEJA Esplar Sneakers (39) // NAGHEDI Nomad Hobo // similar Anna Beck necklace (option) // Tom Ford sunnies
As you can see, these white shorts have become a real workhorse in my spring and summer wardrobe. Whether I’m pairing them with a striped sweater, a button-up, or just a simple tee, they’re so easy to throw on and look pulled-together!
Shop White Shorts for Spring/Summer
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24 Responses
Vineyard Vines makes great shorts. I love how they are available in a 5″ length, not just 3-1/2. I think you should definitely get the black raspberry color (on sale)! Enjoy St. Augustine. I’ve been there once, the fort is very cool! The sun finally came out here in the Philly area, but it’s still COLD!
Also, in the shopping widgets there is a Tommy Bahama short in a 7″ inseam. That is my sweet spot. I have seen that Bermuda lengths are also starting to trend again (I guess that is 9-11inch?}. I love that length also on those with longer legs
Oh thanks! I forgot about those.
I have these same shorts in 3 colors! They’re so good! They remind me of the former j crew similar style and quality.
I love long sleeve tops w shorts to transition!! All these pictures show the value of an open neckline vs a crew and the elongating (slimming?) effect. Good reminder for myself to watch that.
We’ve only done Disney world in FL, so it’s fun to hear about other parts and what you enjoy😊
I love the pairing of a lightweight sweater with white shorts this time of year. Now I just need a little color on my legs!
Several of the links aren’t working for me today. The two links to J Crew work but the rest give me an error message. Anyone else having the same issue?
These shorts are giving me ’80’s flashbacks in a good way! In college we wore shorts like this with button down oxford shirts and top siders! But I love the new styling you’ve given these!
Love the shorts but can you show a longer length pair?
Thank you
They come in a 5″ length, as well.
Love the short but can you show a longer length pair in a color.
How do you cuff your sleeves? They don’t look like they’re just rolled up. Very neat looking. Maybe a short video 🙏🏼
These were already fixed for me when I bought the shirt and they button up so they stay pretty well.
I was looking at all the travel capsule close. I was wondering, do you check your suitcase? I am trying to travel with just a carry-on and there’s no way I can get that many clothes in my bag even with compression bags.
Yes I did.
The code HAPPY20SF – is that for Athleta? I tried it and it isn’t working.
I’m sorry that code is for Saks. I forgot to change the title of that section. Those are Saks sale finds. I believe the Athleta sale ended yesterday.
Hi JoLynne, I’m looking through many old posts to see if you had linked the actual raffia/leather bag you’re wearing this spring but by the comment you made it must be the YSL you mention? Do you know if it is still available or the name of it as I love the lines and amount of raffia to leather vs the Loeffler mentioned on sale at Saks.
Thank you for any help.
The camel brush color of the boat shoes looks so much darker on the website you linked. Which color is more accurate?
My favorite look – the crop shirt and silver flip flops. Also like the v-neck and sneakers look. I just can’t get into the boat shoe thing.
I like all of these looks! I’m ready for spring! Colors are so pretty and I love stripes.
Ordered the white and navy ! Thank you, Jo-Lynne☀️💐🌊
I’m very interested in the Vineyard Vine shorts, but reading the reviews, several ladies said they had to size down 1-2 sizes because the shorts run very big and stretch out with wear. Did you experience that?
I didn’t really find that to be true, but it did make me wonder if I should try the size 28. Although… I think I’m really more of a 30, so the 29 is probably “sizing down” for me.
Where did you get that blue pinstripe? It’s not just any ordinary pinstripe. It’s quite adorable.
It’s linked under the picture! 🤗