Bermuda. The very word conjures up images of tropical beaches and summer heat. Even if you’ve never been lucky enough to visit this island paradise, you can embrace the Bermudan spirit with their namesake – Bermuda shorts.
They’ve not been given this name by chance. Bermuda shorts were first seen in tropical British outposts such as Bermuda at the turn of the 20th century. The soaring temperatures were far too hot for full uniform, so military officers cut off the lower half of their trousers, creating shorts that gave them some relief from the sweltering heat. Bermuda style shorts are still worn by the Royal Navy today, and their popularity has spread into mainstream fashion, with the trend ebbing and flowing over the years.
Bermuda shorts are more formal than your average shorts. The fabric is cut above the knee and they tend to have a tailored waist, making them far more dressy and sophisticated than daisy dukes and cycling shorts. Indeed, the renaissance for Bermuda shorts has been confirmed this season, with fashion houses favouring them on the SS20 catwalks. Tom Ford, Toga, Sportmax and Max Mara are just a few of the design houses that featured Bermuda-style shorts, placing them well and truly back on-trend.
In fact, they’re now so popular that you can find Bermuda style shorts in every cut and fabric, from dress shorts with pleated waists and turn up bottoms, to more casual looking denim shorts. Given the added coverage, they’re very flattering and easy to wear, and that’s why they always come back into fashion.
If you’re planning a summer holiday or just want to update your summer wardrobe, here’s our pick of the best Bermuda shorts for you, whatever your style….
1. Tailored and formal from Marks and Spencer
This is the traditional fit and style we’ve come to expect for Bermuda shorts, from a British staple on the high street. Equally at home in the office or as cruise wear, this is a classic style that suits everyone. What’s more, they’re available in two colours – almond and black – and up to a UK size 24.
2. From day to night – a Topshop classic
Wow, these might be pricey but they’re stunning and will take you easily from daytime chic to night-time glam. Made from the softest leather, the fact that they’re almost culotte length makes them super flattering. There’s also a matching leather jacket for an edgy, fashion-forward look! Available up to a UK size 18, we think you’ll agree these Bermuda shorts are well worth the investment.
3. Beach flirty from Monsoon
Who doesn’t love a flirty, floral print? And who better to deliver a sumptuous, bohemian print than Monsoon? These gorgeous Bermuda shorts will take you from the beach to the restaurant in style and are available up to a UK size 18.
4. Casual denim at New Look
This style is all over the high street right now. It’s fun, practical and stylish. We love that these are black, as opposed to ripped denim, as they’re really flattering on a curvy figure. Part of New Look’s plus-size collection, these denim Bermudas are available in UK sizes 18 to 32.
5. Comfort and style from Debenhams
If you love a high waist then these are the Bermuda shorts for you. Made from a super stretchy cotton-rich fabric, these Bermuda cut-offs are so comfy, yet stylish. They have an elasticated waistband for comfort and we love that they’re in white, as they’re great for showing off tanned legs! These beauties are available in UK sizes 20 to 28.
So there you have it, Bermuda shorts for every occasion, and everybody! If you’re looking for a little more control, and to enhance your curves under those shorts then here at Elle Courbee we have a fantastic range of control briefs. From classic tummy control briefs to invisible-line boy shorts, we can help you find the perfect shapewear to wear under your new Bermuda shorts. That’s the beauty of the added length and higher waist, and is just one of the many reasons we love these shorts and hope this is a style that’s here to stay!