Bonmarché blog - styling tips and fashion inspiration

Make Long Shorts Work for Any Dress Code

24th June 2025

How to Style Long Shorts for Any Occasion

Long shorts are having a bit of a moment - and honestly, it’s about time. Stylish, comfy and just the right length for those of us who want a little more coverage, they’re the kind of warm-weather staple you’ll reach for again and again. Whether you’re popping to the garden centre, heading off on holiday, or dressing up for lunch with the girls, ladies’ long shorts are as practical as they are chic.


Bonmarché stocks a collection of women’s long shorts that are designed to flatter real figures, with sizes ranging from 10 to 28. From long linen shorts to everyday jogger styles, there’s something for every shape, every day and every occasion - all at prices that won’t make you wince.

Why Long Shorts Are a Summer Staple

If you’ve ever tried on a pair of shorts and thought, “Not for me,” you’re not alone. Ladies’ long length shorts are a brilliant option for those of us who want something flattering, comfy and endlessly wearable.


Think garden barbecues, family days out, seaside strolls, or even just a trip into town. They’re perfect for women who want to feel confident and cool without showing off too much leg. They also make a brilliant switch from cropped trousers or skirts, especially if you’re after something lighter.


As one happy customer put it: “They are very comfortable and look smart enough to go ashore when on a cruise…I've had several ladies ask me where I got them.” 

The Ultimate Holiday Clothing Checklist

Planning a trip? Long linen shorts for women are the perfect pack-along piece. Lightweight, breezy, and easy to pair with your holiday favourites, they’re ideal whether you're headed for the Med or enjoying a staycation a little closer to home.

Tropical & Leafy Print Long Shorts

For sunshine days, you can’t go wrong with a cheerful print. Our Tropical Palm Print Shorts and Dotty Leaf Print Shorts are made from a soft, floaty viscose - cool, breathable and easy to move in. Style them with a simple linen top or cotton tee and you're set for exploring seaside towns or enjoying a cheeky cocktail at the beach bar. And yes, they do come in sizes 10–28.

Long shorts in leafy and tropical prints

Lightweight & Seersucker Striped Shorts

Classic and just smart enough for sightseeing or a lunch out, our Lightweight Stripe Shorts and Seersucker Stripe Shorts really do tick all the boxes. Even better? The seersucker fabric is breathable and doesn’t crease, so they’re brilliant if ironing’s not part of your holiday plans. Pop them on with a blouse or lightweight knit and you’re good to go.

Lightweight & Seersucker Striped Shorts

Belted Crinkle Shorts: Chic & Flattering

Got a lunch date or garden party on the calendar? Our Plain Belted Crinkle Shorts are a fab smart-casual option. The tie belt nips you in at the waist for a lovely shape, and the textured fabric is brilliant at hiding creases, so you’ll still look polished after a long sit-down meal.


They’re great with a floaty blouse or cami, and if it gets chilly, just add a light jacket or summer cardi. Sorted.

black crinkle long shorts

Jogger Shorts: Everyday Comfort

Soft, stretchy and ideal for busy days or lazy ones, these Jogger Shorts are a comfy go-to. Whether you’re running errands, putting your feet up with a cuppa, or chasing after the grandkids in the garden, these will keep you feeling cosy and confident. Dress them down with trainers or sandals, or layer up with a cotton cardigan if the clouds roll in.

jogger shorts

How to Style Long Shorts for Different Dress Codes

Long shorts go the distance when it comes to styling. From relaxed to refined, here’s how to make them work for wherever life takes you.


Casual Days - Printed styles or joggers are perfect with a simple cotton tee or vest. Just add a pair of comfy sandals and you’re set for pottering around the house, walking the dog or a day in the garden.


Smart-Casual Moments - Need to look a little more polished? Try belted crinkle shorts or striped seersucker styles with a blouse tucked in and a pair of wedges or ballet flats. Ideal for lunch with friends, family birthday dos, or a wander round the shops.


Holiday Ready - Printed long linen shorts paired with a sleeveless top and sunhat give you that chic, breezy look that works from poolside to promenade. Add some jewellery or a bold lip and you’re holiday-photo ready.


And don’t forget - many of our fabrics are breathable, lightweight and easy to wash, making them practical as well as stylish.

Shop Bonmarché's Long Shorts

With sizes 10–28, purse-friendly prices and styles to suit every kind of day, Bonmarché’s ladies’ long shorts are a wardrobe win. From holiday-ready prints to everyday joggers and chic belted styles, it’s never been easier to look stylish and feel great - whatever the occasion.


Go on, have a browse and treat yourself to a pair that fits just right.