If you want a stylish look, shorts with tights is a simple way to create a cute, versatile and edgy outfit that will turn heads and make a statement. As a transitional style, wearing shorts with tights can be a trendy, comfortable and flattering choice for women who want to show off their legs while keeping warm in the fall and winter.
From casual to classy, you can style this fashion-forward combination to suit any occasion, season or look. When pulling off the trend, choosing timeless black tights with loose or tailored shorts and cute sweaters, tops and shoes like boots and heels can make all the difference in achieving a stunning finish.
For a fresh approach, check out these chic shorts with tights outfit ideas to inspire a modern and fashionable look.
How To Style Shorts with Tights
When pairing shorts with tights, a chic outfit that fits comfortably while flattering your body can be a cute and practical look for any occasion. Shorts are generally a spring and summer wardrobe item, but adding tights to your ensemble will allow you to rock them year round.
From denim to leather, styling black tights under shorts is a natural combination that will show off your personality, exude confidence and keep you warm in the fall and winter months. You can wear tailored shorts, fitted denim, loose paper bag styles or high-waisted cuts to create the perfect vibe.
Choosing trendy and functional tights to complement your ensemble will ensure you rock this look with style. Dark opaque tights work well in the winter months and will offer a warm substitute for jeans, trousers and sweater dresses. In the spring and summer, low-denier designs are relatively sheer and can keep you looking sophisticated without overheating.
For a bold statement, consider wearing patterned stockings, colored tights or alluring fishnets. When experimenting with outfit ideas, black tights are an attractive and universally flattering choice for women who want a versatile look that takes them from work to happy hour.
The most popular shoes to wear with shorts and tights include ankle boots, elegant heels, chunky loafers and designer sneakers. Pair a complementary jacket and simple accessories for a balanced look that will allow you to effortlessly transition from day to night.
Shorts with Tights Outfit Ideas
Winter Black Leather Shorts with Cute Sweater, Pantyhose, Ankle Boots and Designer Bag
Channel an enviable Parisian vibe with sleek leather shorts and a slouchy black sweater. A Louis Vuitton purse keeps your outfit neutral while adding eye-catching branding to this casual and low-maintenance look.
Button-Down Shirt, Black Leather Shorts, Tights and Chelsea Boots
Styling a chic button-down shirt with leather shorts can add elegant texture to an otherwise simple look. Sheer black tights will keep your legs warm during transitional months, while muted Chelsea boots pull everything together.
Blue Sweater with Skirt, Pantyhose, Scarf and Boots
Channel and embrace the winter blues with a navy sweater and a bulky leather jacket. A sleek skirt is a gorgeous replacement for casual shorts that pair perfectly with fun and patterned pantyhose. Throw on a leather jacket to take your look from office-chic to bar-ready.
Black Long-Sleeve Blouse, Dark Green Shorts, Tights and Ankle Boots
For a look that screams fall, you can’t go wrong with dark green shorts and a flattering long-sleeve blouse. Keeping the shades deep creates a cohesive look with the sheer black tights. Grab a simple tote back and slick your hair back into a bun for the ultimate professional style.
Black Leather Shorts with Tights, Sweater, Overcoat and Chunky Boots
Styling black leather shorts with a fitted sweater and an overcoat can be an edgy and daring look. Keeping your staple pieces black provides excellent contrast with a grey, camel or vibrant coat for visual interest. Consider a statement belt to cinch the waist for effortlessly cool vibes.
Chic Chunky Knit Sweater, Leather Shorts, Tights and Booties
Slouchy fits are all the rage, and leather shorts prevent this oversized sweater from losing its shape. Fun and patterned black tights add an extra layer of personality to your look, while a belt cinches the waist to create a gorgeous silhouette.
Black T-Shirt, High-Waist Denim Shorts with Polka Dot Tights and Booties
Add some casual flavor to your fall wardrobe by pairing a simple black t-shirt with figure-flattering denim shorts. The high waist gives you the freedom to add a chunky belt, while the polka-dot tights add light texture to the legs. Finish your style with barely-there booties to keep the focus on your all-black ensemble.
Blazer, Shorts, Fishnet Stockings and Cowboy Boots
If you’re heading to Nashville but want to beat the chill, an oversized blazer can be a great option. Wearing sexy fishnets with forgiving paper bag shorts will keep you cool and comfortable but the statement cowboy boots will take this ensemble from metropolitan to full-blown country chic.
Casual Denim Shorts with Tights, Flats, Cropped Shirt and Cardigan
Casual denim shorts are a wardrobe staple for a reason as they add a rugged and relaxed feel to any outfit. A cropped shirt will reveal just enough skin to keep your style playful, while opaque tights provide warmth and balance. A fitted cardigan will help you beat the cold and give your look a hit of understated elegance.
Bodysuit with Low-Rise Denim Shorts with Tights and Booties
When you can’t risk your outfit slipping and sliding, a stylish lace bodysuit can be an amazing solution. Low-rise denim shorts let you reveal the best of your figure, and a sheer lace back is bound to make a statement. For a casual feel, stick with flat and chunky Doc Martens to finish.
Black Sweater, Matching Blazer and Shorts with Tights
Upscale brunch outfits don’t need to be bland when you’re sporting a sleek black sweater, chic shorts and a matching blazer. The monochrome design of this stylish look is effortlessly eye-catching, and the blocky black boots keep things grounded. An attractive shoulder bag and simple jewelry will round off your look beautifully.
Chic Shorts, Tights, Wool Blazer and Lug Boots
When you’re wearing all black, a simple wool blazer and chunky lug boots can work wonders to texturize your look. A pop of color in your handbag and a gold buckle belt will also add glorious flair to this ensemble.
Classic Light-Wash Denim Shorts with Stylish Shirt, Blazer, Tights and Combat Boots
Light-wash denim is an awesome choice for giving any outfit a fresh and youthful feel. A stylish black shirt is at the core of this look, but an oversized blazer, tights and combat boots effortlessly balance the textured denim. For a cute, Parisian vibe, throw a black beret and slimline shades into the mix.
Cropped Jacket, Shorts, Tights and Loafers
When you want Chanel-level elegance without the high price tag, a smart cropped jacket and smart shorts are the answer. The monochrome jacket looks flattering with low-denier tights. Plus, sophisticated loafers offer a preppy finish that transitions effortlessly from the office to the bar.
Cute Shorts, Tan Sweater, Tights, Hat and Dress Shoes
Inject some playful energy into your outfit with polka-dot shorts and a versatile tan sweater. A matching bag and hat will instantly elevate your look, but it’s the sleek patented Oxfords that will steal the show, making it the perfect sightseeing style for those crisp fall mornings!
High-Rise Denim Shorts, Pantyhose, See-Through Shirt, Blazer and Ankle Boots
High-raise denim shorts create an enviable silhouette, but the sexy see-through shirt instantly elevates the look for date night. Adding pantyhose will effortlessly match the sheer shirt, while a cute cropped blazer offers an upscale finishing touch. For a pop of visual interest, throw an animal print tote over your shoulder.
Denim Cutoffs with Tights, Leather Jacket and Boots
The distressed look of cutoffs gives a slick leather jacket and sheer tights a gorgeous undone look. Heeled boots will elongate your legs with minimal effort, and you can even wear a black snood to battle the winter chill in style.
Embellished Leather Jacket, Dark Wash Denim Shorts, Pantyhose and Platform Boots
Sometimes, an old-school pair of dark wash scene shorts and a bold leather jacket are all you need to make a statement. Visible pockets and rips are perfect for showcasing a rebellious attitude and work perfectly with a slouchy beanie. Throw on a graphic tee and chunky platform boots for the ultimate early 2000s look.
Cute Blouse, Light Wash Denim Shorts, Tights and Heels
When you’re trying to capture subtle elegance without a dress or tailored pants, light wash denim shorts and a cute blouse are key. Light shades like blush, cream or lilac will look gorgeous with the lighter denim but can be dialed up with a statement belt. Classic black or nude heels are the feminine finishing touch you need.
Dark Blue Shirt, Blazer, Leather Shorts and Pantyhose
A dark blue shirt looks cool and classy with a fitted blazer, and edgy leather shorts lend this look serious cool girl vibes. Sheer pantyhose offers protection against cooler weather, and heeled boots add an elegant touch without being overly dressy. For a hit of glamor, don a designer crossbody bag and chic gold jewelry.
Gray Cashmere Sweater, Taupe Shorts, Black Stirrup Tights, Silk Scarf and Ankle Boots
Oversized vibes are the name of the game here with a loose cashmere sweater and taupe shorts. The neutral tones give you free rein to experiment with accessories. But a simple silk scarf, traditional stirrup tights and a pair of suede ankle boots are classy companions that you can’t beat.
Cream Shorts, Sweater, Navy Blazer and Pantyhose
Cream shorts and a matching sweater form the base of this gorgeous look. You can opt for white denim shorts, but textured materials like corduroy are excellent for adding visual interest. A flattering oversized blazer keeps this outfit casual, but feel free to switch it for an edgy leather jacket or chic cardigan.
Fun Graphic Tee, Oversized Blazer, Fashionable Shorts with Pantyhose and Ankle Boots
If you want to look like a pop culture icon, a fun graphic tee will look cool and casual with a pair of fashionable shorts. Black lace shorts have enough texture to balance a simple cotton tee and low-denier tights. A loose cardigan will gloss over any problem areas and create a badass monochrome look.
Loose Sweater, Plaid Blazer, Black Faux Leather Shorts, Tights and Black Chelsea Boots
Faux leather shorts are undeniably trendy paired with a relaxed sweater and sleek Chelsea boots. The neutral color palette here creates a sophisticated look that you can switch up with stilettos or kitten heels. The plaid blazer gives the ensemble a preppy feel that won’t look out of place at the bar or your favorite brunch spot.
Cute Sweater with Leather Denim Shorts, Tights, Leather Boots and Ankle Boots
Minimalist leather shorts let a cute sweater with a Peter Pan collar steal the show in this college-inspired style. The leather jacket creates cohesion with the patent shorts and ankle boots that instantly lift the leg for effortless glamour. To carry those essentials, finish your outfit with a tan tote to switch up the neutrals.
Chic Black Shorts, Turtleneck Sweater, Pantyhose and Knee-High Boots
Fitted black shorts can look striking with a classic black turtleneck. Wearing shorts with buttons gives your outfit an almost nautical vibe that you can play up with white, navy or red knee-high boots. If monochrome is the name of the game, stick with black boots.
Graphic Tee, Denim Shorts, Leather Jacket, Tights and Black Sneakers
Wearing a cute graphic tee and a structured leather jacket lets you showcase your rebellious side without sacrificing style. A cropped jacket is cool and textured, but it’s the black sneakers and polka-dot tights that give the outfit a youthful feel. For more oomph, add some color with a statement beanie.
Grey Sweater, Black Jacket, Denim Shorts, Stockings and Suede Boots
When the first leaves of autumn start falling, a basic cardigan and a grey sweater will be your best friends. Classic high-waisted denim shorts give this look much-needed structure, and you can play around with texture by adding suede boots. For a wearable (but kaleidoscopic!) feel, play around with neutrals like tan, black and camel.
Plaid Button-Down Shirt, Hunter Green Shorts with Stockings and Cardigan
The Wizard of Oz aesthetic has never looked better with a plaid button-down shirt and Hunter Green shorts. The neutral and almost army-green feel of the shorts is an amazing alternative to regular black or denim shades. Keep your style quirky with a messenger-style clutch, a simple grey cardigan for texture and a cute top-knot.
Pink Shorts with Tights and Long Coat
Bubblegum pink shorts get a grown-up girl makeover with tights and a tailored long coat. The pop of pastel is perfect for those early spring days, and the overcoat glosses over your outfit for casual elegance. For a night out, bold boots and a metallic clutch are a chic look that will turn heads.
Winter Shorts with Stockings, Sweater, Long Wool Coat and Black Combat Boots
When you need a touch more coverage, thick winter shorts and a long wool coat will save the day. Neutral camel and black shades always look sophisticated and will flatter every skin tone for a balanced appearance. If you need all-day comfort, switch out your usual heels for patent combat boots.
Oversized Button-Down Shirt, Shorts, Fishnets and Boots
On days when you’re not sure what to wear, try an oversized button-down shirt with shorts peeking out from underneath. Black and white shades work well to create a striking two-tone appearance with daring fishnets.
Loose Shorts with Tights, Light Sweater, Jacket and Riding Boots
Loose shorts with tights are an upscale alternative to denim when fall rolls around. A light sweater in a neutral shade like khaki, taupe or camel can work beautifully with a corduroy jacket. Seal the deal with leather riding boots that balance the skin showing on your legs.
Striped Long-Sleeve Sweater, Tights, Shorts, Booties and Scarf
A pop of pattern from a striped sweater can seriously jazz up your look when paired with black shorts. An attractive leather tote is slouchy enough to boost the casual feel of this ensemble, but the pop of color from a simple scarf makes this outfit a must-try during autumn.
Crop Sweater, Faux Leather Shorts with Gucci Tights and Studded Combat Boots
A cropped sweater is surprisingly stylish tucked into a pair of tight leather shorts to create a mix-and-match look. Gucci tights give this outfit a subtle designer nod, while the studded boots keep the style edgy and modern. To avoid overwhelming your ensemble, keep the colors neutral and logos to a minimum.
Leather Shorts and Checkered Tights
When you want to go bold, a chunky overcoat, checkered tights and leather shorts are the answer. Contrasting textures and patterns create major visual interest against a simple white blouse. Simple jewelry and black boots should make the texture of your clothes the main event.
Denim Shorts with Tights and Flats
Frayed denim shorts are perfect for showing off enviable pins. Girly flats and a structured blazer or suede jacket contrast the relaxed look of the shorts. But you can easily skip the extras for a simple style that works for everything from bar-hopping to sightseeing.
Printed Tights with Leather Shorts, Chunky Loafers and Oversized Blazer
Dial up a simple Girl Next Door style by wearing printed tights and an oversized blazer. Leather shorts provide plenty of texture to this minimalistic style. This gives you the freedom to experiment with edgy accessories, jewelry and chunky loafers for easygoing evening dates.
Pullover, High-Waisted Black Denim Shorts with Tights and Sneakers
Casual Friday is about to get a whole lot better with a relaxed pullover and waist-hugging denim shorts. Belted shorts will give you an enviable silhouette that you can balance with casual white sneakers for a shot of modern glamor.
Ripped Black Tights, Studded Shorts, Green Tartan Shirt and White Sneakers
An old-school tartan shirt can be a modern look with rebellious studded shorts. Ripped black tights grunge up this outfit with ease and the chunky white sneakers add to the “Just Woke Up Like This” vibe.
