So fly: why jorts are your new season staple.
It’s that sweet, sweet time of year when the warmer weather’s got us in the mood to venture out, soak up some rays and show a little leg. Half a leg, to be exact, if the epic return of jorts is anything to go by. Yup, these delightful denim hybrids – whose iconic design straddles the line between jeans and shorts – have sauntered back into style.
Not convinced? Read on as we take a look at the history of jorts and why they’re the go-to pants of the season. We’ll also drop some easy summer styling tips and product recs to make these knee-grazing cuties work for you.
What’s the deal with jorts?
Jorts in 2023 are nailing the Cs – casual, cool and comfy. It’s why we love ‘em. But jorts are nothing new: they first emerged around the 80s when the skimpy 70s hot pants gave way to a longer style. It was in the 90s that jorts had their heyday, seen on the likes of trend-setting boy bands, hip-hop artists and sitcom stars.
Fast forward to today, and jorts are having a glorious renaissance. The Y2K resurgence, popularised by gen Z, means these easy-breezy bottoms are back and better than ever.
Jorts have been dominating runways over the past 24 months, with the likes of Gucci, Coach and Louis Vuitton showcasing unique iterations of the surprisingly versatile garment. If you’re not sure where to start, you can’t go wrong with a relaxed 90s-inspired stonewash style – the Dakota501 Relaxed 90s Denim Short and A Brand A Carrie Short Georgia are solid choices. Pair ‘em with a tight tube top and some cowboy boots or sneakers, and you’re golden.
If you’re seeking something smart for your capsule wardrobe, the Glassons Low Rise Baggy Longline Denim Jort will do nicely. Hailey Bieber is known to pair a similar style with a cute white cropped tee, slim black belt and gold accessories for a casual yet elevated vibe that’s perfect for brunch with friends. You can even dress them up with a blazer, crisp button-up and dainty shoes for days in the office.
Why is it a Jorts Girl Summer?
From the 2010s to now, we’ve loosened our death grip on the old skinny jeans in favour of slouchier fits. And the WFH phenomenon has further fuelled our desire for comfortable everyday clothing. So it’s no surprise, really, that jorts have made a comeback. The latest styles provide good thigh coverage and are just as wide at the leg as they are at the waist, allowing for blessed freedom of movement on hot summer days.
Thanks to their DIY vibe, jorts are also appealing to younger generations’ move towards sustainable fashion. Many styles, including the Glassons Wide Leg Longline Jort and Cotton On Super Baggy Carpenter Denim Jort, are made with recycled cotton. Got an old pair of mum jeans you never wear? A pair of scissors and a steady hand are all you need to give them new life in less than 30 seconds. You know what they say – reduce, reuse, rejort!
Jorts also lend well to the quiet luxury approach to dressing, with options like TOTEME’s Knee-Length Denim Shorts carefully crafted to stand the test of time (helping you to buy less in the long run). Plus, the higher waist, dark wash and flared hem exude sophistication, perfectly demonstrating how jorts can be casual and classy all at once. Jean-ius.
From baggy jorts to cargo shorts.
Not big on denim? There’s no reason you can’t embrace the airy-leg joy of jorts, too. There’s a wide range of baggy knee-length shorts available in a range of fabrics to suit your personal style.
If you’re into 90s revival, cargo shorts might be the solulu. Supre’s Gigi Cargo Short lets you rock the tourist-dad look in the coolest way possible, with ample pocket space for stashing summer essentials (sunscreen, chapstick and the like).
For something a lil more rugged, a pair of outdoorsy Parachute Cargo Shorts by Jaded London look badass with a utility jacket and hiking boots.
Linen lovers will adore the uber-flattering UNIKSPACE’s Parker Tailored Linen Shorts. With a light buttery-yellow hue and high-rise waist, they’ll go with almost any shirt or top in your warm-weather wardrobe. Nab the matching Anya Kimono, and you’ve got yourself a chic and comfy suit to get you through the summer months.
Sort your jorts with Afterpay.
Whether you’re all about the slouch or prefer a fitted style, a pair of jorts can be an eco-conscious way to get into the carefree spirit of summer this year – and look head-turningly stylish while doing it.
Need ‘em now? We’ve got you – with Afterpay, keeping up with fashun trends is as easy as slipping into a pair of laidback baggy jorts on a sunny day. Make your purchase today and spread your payments over four weeks wherever you see our logo.
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