What To Wear With Paperbag Shorts: 8 Cute Summer Outfit Ideas
Looking for something nice to wear for summer other than the usual denim shorts? Check out this style guide on what to wear with paperbag shorts!
Paperbag shorts are the perfect alternative to other high-waisted shorts for summer. They give you a similar silhouette but in a more comfortable package. We love styling them with everything from cute tanks to lightweight blouses for feminine looks!
And the best part? Because the waistline adds interesting volume to what you’re wearing, finding the right top to wear is easy. You can pull together a whole outfit in seconds, meaning you have more time on your hands this summer.

In this article, we’ll show you how to style paperbag shorts for any occasion. But first, what exactly are they?
Paperbag waist shorts are a type of shorts that have a high waist and ruffled waistline. They are often made with lightweight fabric, which makes them perfect for summertime! Usually, these shorts come with an elastic waistband that is designed to snugly hug the smallest part of your waist, and they’re great for any body type.
These types of shorts may just be your new best friend this summer. With a high waist and cinched in fit, paperbag shorts paired with your favorite tank top or blouse will give you a classic, put-together look in the hot weather. Below, we’ll explore eight different outfit ideas and the types of tops that you can easily copy!
What To Wear With Paperbag Shorts
1. Cami Tops

Beat the summer heat with a classic cami white silk top and a pair of paperbag shorts. The cami top keeps it cool and casual thanks to its looser fit, while the paperbag shorts add a touch of trend appeal.
To complete the look, add a straw bag and flat sandals for an elegant style.
2. Plain Tees
This is a great way to style paperbag shorts if you want a more casual look. You can tuck your favorite plain tee in, or you can go for a crop top version of this one.
If you want to avoid boiling in the summer sun, opt for breathable linen paperbag shorts in a cute print to pair with your plain top. To complete the look, add some sneakers or sandals and a hat for chic sun protection.
3. Flutter Sleeve Tops

Flutter sleeve tops are super cute, especially for the hot weather! This is the perfect outfit for brunch or running errands on a Saturday afternoon, but it would also work well for date night or a backyard barbecue! Just throw on some lace-up wedge espadrilles and you’re good to go!
You can keep it simple with a plain flutter sleeve blouse, or stand out with a top in a bold print. Just make sure the rest of your outfit is simple so the prints and colors won’t clash. Complete your outfit with a pair of white platform shoes.
4. Button-Down Shirts

Button downs are an easy way to keep cool and protected in the hot sun while looking cute AF.
This is a great way to style paperbag shorts if you want a more polished look. The button-down shirt makes the outfit more put together, while the paperbag shorts add a touch of casual femininity.
Add some heeled sandals or mules to complete this outfit, and accessorize with a pair of sunglasses and a beach bag.
5. Dressy Blouses

A dressy top is another fun piece to wear with paperbag shorts. Mix and match textures like satin or chiffon with denim for a more personalized look. And don’t be afraid to wear florals in the spring and summer months; they’re always in!
Pair this outfit with a cute pair of heels and a clutch purse – it’s the perfect look for bottomless brunch or other dressy activities.
6. Denim Jackets

Denim jackets are a great way to make your entire outfit more casual and relaxed – wear a crop top or a tank top underneath your jacket, and pair the look with your favorite paperbag shorts.
Complete this look with platform espadrilles or flat mules for a cute summer brunch outfit.
7. Blazers

Linen is in! Matching sets of shorts and blazers have been especially trendy in recent years and they’re a great alternative to pantsuits. For a polished look, pair your solid-colored paperbag shorts lightweight linen blazer. The key to nailing this look is to match the color of your blazer and your shorts for a cohesive, put-together look.
There are tons of shorts + blazer sets on the market right now, but we especially love the hot pink blazer and paperbag shorts featured above, from Mango!
8. Off-The-Shoulder Tops
We love off-the-shoulder tops for their feminine vibe – they look great with virtually any type of bottoms there is. For this summer, why not try pairing your paperbag shorts with your favorite off-the-shoulder top?
This style of top is delicate and flirty – a great look especially if you’re on a resort holiday. To complete the look, add some simple jewelry and strappy sandals.
Final Thoughts
Paperbag shorts are not only the perfect pair of shorts for summer, but also a versatile piece that can be worn in a variety of ways. You can wear them with just about anything – try out some of these ideas first and discover what works best for you!
We hope you enjoyed this article on what to wear with paperbag shorts! If you’re still looking for more fashion inspiration, check the posts down below.
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