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Shorts for Every Personality

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Anjerika Wilmer Student Contributor, James Madison University
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Alexa Johnson Student Contributor, James Madison University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at JMU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Although finals are coming up (ugh, I know!), studying for these stressful exams isnot the only thing on my agenda.   As each new season arrives, my motto is to always try something new. Be it a fresh hairstyle, different lip color, or new perfume, the objective is to mix it up.  And with warm weather here, what better thing to experiment with than SHORTS! 
 
Right now I’m quite obsessed with finding the quintessential pair of summer shorts.  If you are the type of collegiette™ to wear plaid or denim shorts day-in day-out, maybe it’s time to step out of your comfort zone.  Don’t gravitate toward that pair of short shorts, instead try on some high-waisted ones.  Similarly, leave those conservative shorts behind, invest in some daring lace.  Whatever works – just take a chance!
 

While I tend to be a skirt and dress kind of girl, shorts surely deserve a place in my wardrobe…see, I’m taking chances too!  Here are some shorts that scream summer!
 

Bold and Brash

Urban Outfitters (Urban Renewal Levi’s Denim Short Short)
Shorts that make a statement (while keeping it classy) seem to be a rare find these days.  Not only are these shorts bunches of fun, but they also come in a variety of different colors for you to try.  In brilliant pastel hues, you won’t need the warm weather to remind you that summer days are ahead.   
 

Dressy-Dressy


Anthropologie and Diane von Furstenberg
For an impeccable and ultra-feminine look, lacy shorts are your answer.  Either of these options will take you from day-to-night.  While these cream-colored lace shorts will look superb with a black blazer and frilly blouse, this sparkling black pair will be the ultimate alternative to your traditional LBD. 

Classic Denim


7 For All Mankind, AG Jeans, Madewell
Every summer, I tell myself that I am going to invest in a good pair of denim shorts.  No such luck…yet.  My ideal pair would be cuffed and come in a dark wash.  Don’t get me wrong though, vintage and light washes would be great too…so maybe one pair won’t be enough!  
 

Try a Bow!


Kate Spade and Urban Outfitters 
Feminine and relaxed, all three of these shorts have one thing in common:  a classic bow.  Revamp your everyday wardrobe by pairing these sophisticated shorts with a simple tee, and your favorite heels.  Casual meets luxe, perfection.   
 

Plaid and Pinstripes

Urban Outfitters and BCBGeneration
Take style cues from the guys in your life by investing in menswear prints.  Pair with a feminine top, cardigan and classic ballet flats for a put-together look!
 

Lovely and Divine

Topshop and Forever 21
As I said before, I love my skirts…especially ones covered in floral prints.  As I abhor the idea of abandoning my skirts, these two shorts (especially the one from Topshop) make the transition a little bit easier.  And the best part: when it’s super windy outside, you don’t have to worry about the flimsy material flying up (they’re shorts, remember!). 

Dizzyingly Floral

Diane von Furstenberg, Forever 21, and Delias
Not only are floral prints a prevalent spring runway trend, but they are also über fun to wear.  Mix-and-match prints or pair with a solid color top and you’re all set.     

High and Mighty

Urban Outfitters (both) and Forever 21
A classic silhouette for a classy collegiette™.  If you love high-waisted skirts, then these shorts are a must.  Tuck in a lacy top, put on your favorite cocktail rings, and don some oversized sunglasses for the perfect summer soiree.
 

White Out!

Labor Day is not for a long time.  If you are one to follow the age old myth (no white after Labor Day), here’s your chance to wear white.  Pristine, clean, and always chic…not to mention
that white shorts look fab with freshly tanned legs.
 

Anjerika Wilmer is a senior at James Madison University, pursuing a degree in Art History and Media Arts & Design with a concentration in Journalism. In addition to being a Branch Manager for Her Campus, Anjerika is a contributing writer for Her Campus JMU. Over the summer, she spent five weeks abroad in Vienna, Austria in search of “the Good.” After her inspirational trip to Vienna, Anjerika hopes to see more of the world, specifically Paris and London. Obsessed with all things girly and feminine, nothing makes her happier than classic cardigans, pleated skirts and oxford shoes! A full-fledged fashionista, Anjerika dedicates her spare time to reading fashion magazines, studying runway, blogging and swooning over Olivia Palermo’s impeccable style. As for the future, she plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career in fashion journalism. Moleskine journal in hand, Anjerika is ready to take the fashion world by storm!
Alexa is a junior from Cream Ridge, New Jersey.  She is studying Media Arts & Design with a concentration in Corporate Communication and minors in Creative Writing and Anthropology.  She works for the JMU Office of Residence Life as a Program Adviser and as the Graphics Editor for The Breeze.  She loves watching The Bachelor, pinning to her fashion boards and running outside.   Alexa aspires to work in the glamouous fashion magazine industry in New York City or LA.