This post is dedicated to those go-to outfit combinations I reach for over and over again. We all have them, and admittedly, I am a jeans/denim shorts and a top outfit kind of person. If I were streamlining my wardrobe, I would buy maybe 2-3 pairs of denim shorts, a mix of tops/t-shirts, a few dresses, and a pair of neutral sandals, and call it a day. My job (this blog) has forced me out of my comfort zone so I wear a lot more than that these days, but these classic combinations are still ones I rely on heavily.
Affiliate links are included in this post.
Go-To Summer Outfit Combinations
My Sizing: I’m 4’10”, and my bust, waist, and hip measurements are 32″, 24″, and 36″. My inseam is 25″ (the measurement from the inside of my leg to my ankle bone). The clothes shown are unaltered and show how they fit me right from the store. I list my sizing beside each item to help you compare when shopping online. When referencing my true size, that is often the smallest option available at a brand or petite xxs/00/24. I wear a size 5 shoe.
Denim Shorts + Statement Top
When it comes to a pair of denim shorts, my perfect pair has a 4-5″ inseam, comfortable stretch denim, and ample leg openings. My thighs are relatively thick for my size, so I struggle with shorts being too tight on my thighs. I also can’t stand when shorts ride up. There is nothing worse than being hot and sweaty with a wedgie. So, you can expect all of the denim shorts I share to be comfortable and modest overall. The pair I’m wearing here is from J.Crew. They have a 4″ inseam and a 10″ rise. They run a bit large so I went down a size and found a perfect fit in this pair. I also love this relaxed pair from AE. In my true size (00) they fit me like the J.Crew pair, not baggy like they fit the model. I’ll work to share these in an upcoming post. The outfit is simple but what pulled it together is the puff sleeve top. I found this top at J.Crew Factory and love it! The puff sleeves aren’t overly large and I love the detail of the drawstring bottom. In white it’s not see through, but it also comes in two other colors. For reference I’m wearing it here in XXS.
Shorts 23 sized down | Shorts Option 00 | Top XXS | Sandals tts | Earrings | Bag
Denim Shorts + Button Down
Another combination I wear often is denim shorts and a button down top. In the post I went with a white linen top, but I will wear all different colors and prints. Sometimes I wear them open, and other times I’ll wear them buttons – either way I always cuff the sleeves above my elbow. This combination is a nice way to add a layer to an outfit without making it hot. Of course you’ll want to use a light weight button down and save the flannel for the fall. In this outfit I’m wearing the Brynn Long Shorts from Madewell. They have a similar fit to the J.Crew pair but have a 4.5″ inseam and a raw hem. My pair is brand new, so the hem hasn’t had a chance to distress in the wash, but you can expect it to thread like it has on the model.
Shorts 24 | Tank Top XS | Linen Top XS | Sandals tts | Earrings | Bag
White Denim Shorts + Statement Top
White denim shorts are so crisp and summery. I love wearing them with a printed top in the summer. The pair I’m wearing here is also from Madewell. They are the Emmett Shorts. They have patch pockets on the front but they also have pockets on the back. The denim is thick and stretchy and in white they are not see-through. They have a 4″ inseam. I paired them with a floral top from Free People. I love the print, but this top is open on the sides so it needs to be layered over a camisole unless you’re comfortable wearing it open.
Shorts 24 | Top XS | Camisole S | Sandal tts | Bag | Earrings
Dress
A dress is a one-and-done, easy outfit. I love a breezy and roomy casual dress, and this denim dress is the ticket. It’s roomy, but because it’s short, it’s not overwhelming. I like that it’s drawn in a little bit under the chest to give it some shape while still being a swing style. The denim is stretchy, and the armholes are not too low. It’s an all-around win. I love it with simple sandals, but sneakers would also look great.
Dress Petite XXS | Sandals tts | Bracelets | bag polene un nano
As always, I appreciate you reading and following along! Check back for my daily petite-friendly style finds.
-Brooke
