Some people are shorts people, and some aren’t. With jorts, you can feel comfortable staying cool. Jorts are a combination of jeans and shorts. They’re also making a comeback.
Nikki Venus, a business style coach who teaches stylists how to style, told The Epoch Times, “Jorts are the longer, knee-length denim shorts, and yes … they’re officially back in style.”
But who can wear the jort? Do you need to be a certain age? Luckily, there are many ways to style the versatile jort—they’re flattering on most figures and can be rocked by both men and women. Here’s an overview.
Jorts Over Time
The term jort was commonly used in the ‘90s. It’s having a moment again with the return of the ‘90s and Y2K fashion movement.
Jorts are a descendant of the cut-off jeans of the ‘60s and ‘70s, when shorts were getting shorter and shorter. You may remember Daisy Duke’s first appearance with cut-off jeans in “The Dukes of Hazard” in 1979. But during the ‘80s and ‘90s, jorts took on a longer length and showed less leg.
Unlike Daisy Duke’s denim cut-offs, jorts can go as far as hitting below the knees. They’re often likened to Bermuda shorts made of denim. In fact, according to Vogue, jorts’ most recent style has been creeping back down toward the knees like they did in the ‘90s, thanks to Kendall Jenner and both Hadid sisters.
But don’t go too long, or they look like cropped jeans. On the other hand, if they’re too short, they become cut-offs and won’t have the desired coverage.
Who Wears Jorts
There is no age limit on fashion choices, and jorts—especially the longer, looser styles—are popular now. For example, they are an excellent choice for 50-plus women.
“I believe women over 50 are gravitating toward longer denim shorts because it’s simple, comfy, and meets cool style,” said Venus. “They give off that effortless vibe, while still keeping you covered and comfortable.”
In other words, jorts are great for folks who want to show some style without showing all the leg, no matter their age.
“They are more relaxed and easier to move around in than shorter denim cut-offs,” said Venus.
Jort Washes and Distressing
You can experiment with different levels of distressing and washes.
Go for lighter washes when you want a casual look. Darker washes can be easily dressed up. And if you want to look edgy, put on jorts that have a touch of distress.
Tips for a Good Fit
Jorts can be baggy, straight-leg, or more fitted. Look at your body and choose a silhouette that complements your shape and style.
Be sure you choose the right length. High-waisted jorts create a longer leg line, which is great if you aren’t blessed with long legs. A longer inseam tends to be more flattering and comfortable. You’ll want to make sure the jorts fit well in the waist and thighs.
Don’t go tight. Looser clothing allows for more comfortable movement and is more versatile for warm weather.
Accessories
Choose shoes that elongate the legs, such as sandals or sneakers in a flesh tone. Add a belt, jewelry, or a light jacket to elevate the look. If you’re feeling whimsical or the sun is shining bright, try a hat to complete your look.
Do you have a flashy belt? If it’s a throwback to the ‘90s, it will fit right in with your jorts. Don’t be afraid to go big. Jorts can be casual or dressed up, depending on your mood.
Outfit Pairing Ideas
“You have many options in how you style these,” said Venus. She suggested pairing your jorts with a crisp button-down (sleeves rolled up, of course) and a sleek pair of slides. “It’s giving that ‘I’m stylish without trying too hard’ look,” she said.
You can go casual. Try matching a light-washed denim jort with a white linen shirt and strappy sandals. Try an elevated casual look by wearing dark-wash jorts with a silk blouse and embellished sandals. A light blazer can pull it together.
In the mood to go sporty? Wear baggy jorts with a fun T-shirt and sneakers. If you’re going out, add a crossbody bag.
Jorts for Men
Men are also embracing jorts. They’re going for a longer, baggier fit. Other types include mid-thigh length with a mid-high rise and pleats, but the baggier fit gives a relaxed, laid-back vibe.
Baggy shorts pair well with loose-fitting shirts and minimal shoes like flip-flops.
A Versatile Option
There’s no age to stop wearing shorts when you have an alternative fashion choice like jorts.
For many people, it comes down to versatility and personal preference. You don’t have to sacrifice style in order to have more coverage. It’s summer, and you can still be cool in more ways than one.
“They’re flattering on different body types, they’re practical, and they’re easier to wear day-to-day,” said Venus.
Jorts are the perfect canvas for dressing up or down, making them a great addition to your wardrobe.
