Trends

How To Style Biker Shorts the Cool Girl Way

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more info.

Some might argue that the only time you should wear a pair of cycling shorts is if you’re actually going to a spin class. However, with the rise of the cozy aesthetic, these shorts are more popular than ever.

Princess Diana popularized bike shorts in the 80s and 90s, teaming her pair with an oversized sweatshirt, trainers and pulled-up socks. Over the last few years, the stretchy cutoffs have become as essential to a well-rounded wardrobe as a good pair of black leggings.

How To Style Biker Shorts

Styling black biker shorts may seem one dimensional since they are exercise shorts, however they are such a versatile piece. 

When deciding what to wear with biker shorts, the sky is truly the limit. The sleek biker shorts are best paired with a voluminous tops. Rock the sleek shorts with an oversized graphic t-shirt or your favorite oversized blazer for a put together look. 

Scroll below for plenty of inspo on how to style biker shorts.

Shirt + Biker Shorts + Sneakers

Instagram @about.janedoe

Bike shorts are just as comfy as leggings or sweats—and they’re also trendy. It’s a win-win!

Style with an airy crisp shirt on balmy summer evenings, elevate with heels if you’re brave enough or stay true to the athleisure style with white sneakers.

Shirt + Shorts + Sneakers

Instagram @aimeesong

The line between activewear and street style has become increasingly blurred in recent years, particularly when it comes to the humble bike short.

An icon in of themselves, a pair of biker shorts are now a fashion staple. The humble shorts are back with a vengeance, not just making their way into our workout wear rotation but are now a fashion statement for our day-to-day ensembles.

If you are looking for something more attention seeking, choose a pair of bike shorts in a warm pastel color perfect for the warmer months.

Rainbow hues come in everything from sage green to zesty orange. Keep the look monochrome and pair with fun, bright sneakers.  

Denim Jacket + Shorts + Sandals

Instagram @sincerelyjules


The style set can be divided into two camps when it comes to cycling shorts: those who reserve their activewear for workouts, and those who happily throw on a pair of the clingy shorts to go out to lunch.  

A pair of black biker shorts will stand the test of time as an easy go-to look for the warm months.  Amp up the edgy factor by pairing black biker shorts with a distressed or oversized denim jacket. 

Trench + Shorts + Sneakers

Instagram @aimeesong

As the athleisure movement brought leggings out of the gym and sneakers into the office, mixing luxury with sportswear no longer raises eyebrows.

Bike shorts are the antithesis to baggy, borrowed-from-the-boys sweatpants. Style the thigh-hugging shorts with an oversized trench coat for an effortless look.

Sweatshirt + Shorts + Loafers

Instagram @pepamack

There’s a reason that Princess Diana’s iconic outfit is popular to recreate. This look is classic, comfortable, and uncomplicated — perfect for chilly summer days or transitional weather.

Streamline the iconic look by replacing chunky sneakers with loafers.

Cardigan + Top + Shorts

Instagram @weworewhat

Bike shorts are undoubtedly comfortable for working out during warmer temps, and they’ve proved to be ideal for all sorts of activities, from shopping with friends to heading to the farmers’ market.

Pair a matching set with a sports bra, and throw on a roomy cardigan when things get breezy.

Tank + Shorts + Crossbody Bag

Instagram @mvb

Considering the fashion mood has been a comfy aesthetic and opting for a super casual look. Black bike shorts are a no-brainer piece for the sweltering temps and a humidity level straight out of the swamp.

A white t-shirt or tank is a slam dunk for those hot temperatures. A bricolage of necklaces and a luxury crossbody bag adds an elevated feel to the easy summer look. 

Tee + Cycling Shorts

Instagram @jupviegas

Bike shorts have not become just a summer trend, but are now a closet staple.  Like their ’90s style sister, the fanny pack, has staying power and will continue to evolve as a timeless trend.

For the days you want to ditch the belt bag, grab some bikers with pockets for a forward yet functional ensemble. 

Tee + Shorts + Sneakers

Instagram @louisettexyz

One summer outfit that is super easy, even for Taylor Swift to put together in a flash, is an oversized graphic tee and biker shorts with sneakers or sandals. The laid-back pairing is chill enough for various daytime activities, such as a visiting your football boyfriend.

Shake off those denim shorts and add a graphic oversized t-shirt and retro trainers for a more casual biker shorts look. Paired with a baseball hat and sunnies, the look effortlessly transitions from the gym to brunch. 

Blazer + Shorts + Boots

Instagram @aimeesong

Despite the sporty vibes they give off, the best biker shorts outfits have infinite styling potential for turning the humble shorts into a runway-ready look. Create a sleek and sophisticated look by opting for luxe fabrics, such as leather. 

Pair the shorts with an oversized leather jacket in a complementary color and finish off the perfect pairing with knee-high boots. 

Blazer + Shorts + Sandals

Instagram @andicsinger


Make bikers the new base layer for your statement looks. Opt for a more relaxed vibe by pairing biker shorts with an oversized or boyfriend-style blazer. 

This creates a stylish juxtaposition between the structured blazer and the laid-back shorts. The elevating factors are a statement gold necklace and leather bag, and most of all, a pair of lace-up high heels.

The look reads more date night out than a bike ride. 

Blazer + Shirt + Shorts + Sneakers

Instagram @sasalopez

A bicycle isn’t required to embrace the athleisure trend.  Embrace the styling option by pairing biker shorts with a sporty blazer or track jacket.

Layer a sports bra or crop top underneath the blazer for added athleticism. Complete the look with high-top sneakers for a sporty-chic vibe. 

Blazer + Shirt + Shorts

Instagram @ootdioana

The micro-leggings look can be a tough one to pull off. Bike shorts are to thighs as thong heels are to feet – they are revealing. If that idea is intimidating, there are interesting ways to showcase biker shorts without it being too revealing.

Experiment with layers of different lengths and textures to by adding pieces like an oversized button-down and a cropped blazer. Add depth and dimension to an outfit while adding intrigue to biker short outfits,

lechicstreet

Recent Posts