Ask Our Style Techs | How to Winterize Shorts

Q: I love the look of shorts in fall and winter, but I’m not sure how to pull off the look. How do I winterize my shorts?
– Betsy T.

A: Shorts for fall and winter are super chic — we are big fans at MSL! The key to wearing shorts as the weather cools down is essentially about fabric and proper styling.

Fabric. Put away your chinos and lightweight cottons. Tweeds, lightweight wools, brocades and leather are the shorts of winter. There are some all-season poly blends that ease into fall and work in warmer weather as well.

Styling. Think layering with trousers or tights, pairing with sweaters and jackets, and finishing with boots or chunky menswear flats. Accessorize with of-the-moment handbags and jewelry in gold and autumnal tones. Winter shorts can be dressed up with a blazer or down with a denim jacket — up with heels and down with flats.

Here are a few of our favorites for this time of year and how to wear them.

Over-the-knee boots provide coverage and significantly up the hip factor when paired with classic camel shorts.
Shorts, Carven // Jacket, AG Adriano Goldschmied // Sweater, Wildfox // Over-the-Knee Boots in Timber, Stuart Weitzman // Earrings, Alexis Bittar

 Patterned tights and a sweater transition leather shorts from warmer weather into fall. The oxblood-color satchel and lug-sole booties complete the transformation.
Shorts, BlankNYC (Only $44!) // Sweater, Joie // Tights, Wolford // Handbag, Fendi // Boots, Brunello Cucinelli

Layer slim-fit trousers under tweed shorts for a look that’s of-the-moment and practical for keeping warm. The floral top and cotton-candy-colored handbag add feminine flair.
Shorts, Mango (Only $50!) // Trousers, Mango // Top, Thakoon Addition // Shoes, Ash // Clutch, Chloe