With the abundance of shorts options facing you this season—print shorts, sequin shorts, lace shorts, leather shorts—you may find that your denim shorts have been shoved to the back of some drawer instead of their old front-and-center spot. Though options are always nice, nothing will ever replace our perfectly plain denim shorts. In case inspiration is running dry, we put together five fun ways for you to wear your denim shorts this summer!

Dressed Up
Here's my thing—the plainer the item is, the more room you have to dress it up without looking too dressy. Do you know what I mean? Cute denim shorts are about as plain as they come, so why not pair them with a cool textured blazer and animal-print espadrilles? Luxe pieces (without luxe price tags, might I add) make denim shorts look perfectly stylish, yet still relaxed. 

Double Denim
I had to include a denim-on-denim outfit in this story. Though chambray shirts have been around for a few seasons now, there's still something so fresh about a denim-on-denim ensemble. The first time around, I stuck to the rule: Pair one dark-wash denim piece with one light-wash denim piece. But now it’s totally your call. Double-denim newbies may feel more comfortable with contrasting denim washes, but you experts may be comfortable enough with the trend to try this light-wash pairing I put together! Keep your denim-on-denim outfit stylish with polished accessories like a sleek snakeskin clutch and neutral leather sandals.

Simply Chic
Denim shorts and a white top don't sound very exciting but this look is all about chic accessories in basic black and white—another one of summer’s hot trends. Pair denim shorts that have rolled cuffs (they’re nicer than cutoffs) with a classic white button-up shirt. Black-and-white color-block heels add a sophisticated touch and a cool gold necklace gives the shirt a trendy touch.

Serious Sparkle
My favorite part about getting ready for a night out has to be choosing a killer outfit. In the summer, a casual night out can go one of many ways; maybe you're feeling extra glamorous, a little preppy, or a bit rocker. One great way to mix up your usual look is with a pair of denim shorts. Add some glam with an embellished top and studded pop-of-color bag. A simple pair of strappy sandals is the perfect finishing touch!

Casual Cool
Obviously there are tons of ways you can style your denim shorts, but the most common way of wearing them is straight-out casual. I love adding glitz and glam to anything (and everything) even when I'm just wearing jeans and a tee. A cool print T-shirt, long necklace, and crisp white tote bag are a trendy way to take a everyday look up a notch.