How to Choose Shorts for Your Size

For tall or long-legged individuals, mid-thigh shorts work best. Try shorter lengths if your legs are slim. Wear shorts with cuffs or with a looser fit to balance your hips and thighs if you have an athletic shape. You may also try wearing cargo shorts, with pockets, or shorts that roll up to give the illusion of a fuller shape. Wear Capris if you want to downplay your height.

Wear mid-thigh length shorts to help elongate your legs. If your waist is small, wear a close-fitting fabric. Wear pleated shorts to add curves. Wear shorter shorts with inseams of up to five inches if you're short and slim. Opt for a mid-thigh length if you're short and curvy. Choose a pair of shorts that is not too tight or that flares away from the body.

Avoid tight-fitting shorts if you have a pear-shaped body that is bottom heavy. Choose fabrics that can stretch and wear belts to accentuate your waistline to help balance the weight. Wear a loose top to bring the focus away from your hips. Try wearing shorts that reach right above the knees if you have a pear-shaped body that is top heavy. Avoid wearing pleated shorts, and choose tailored style fabrics instead of loose fabrics. Plus-size individuals should wear long shorts. A long short is somewhere between mid-thigh and just above the knee. Long, looser shorts are a great way to cover up problem areas while still keeping you cooler than long pants. Choose darker colors to give you a slimmer look. In addition, avoid big or bold patterns.

Go with mid-length shorts if you have an average height and body shape. With mid- length shorts, you can never go wrong. You may also opt for Capris--a dressier choice. You can also wear shorter shorts as long as they're not too tight.