If you’re keen on Pinterest scrolling, you know that paperbag shorts and pants aren’t just a trend — they’re a sneaky, genius way to make any outfit cuter (and more comfortable).
Paired with your favorite bodysuit and nude heels, these fun bottoms are the summertime essential that’ll up your look in the best way possible (much like your best cocktail dress or jumpsuit would).
We’re beyond excited to bring you one of the hottest summertime edits yet: the best paperbag shorts and pants for 2023. With top selects ranging from Amazon to Revolve, we want to add just about every pair to our carts.
Ahead, find the 25 top styles we’re loving, adding to our wishlists and sharing with our inner circles. They’ll keep you comfortable, stylish and on-trend all season long.
To shop this article by section, simple click on each link below:
Best Paperbag Shorts
1. Sidefeel Bermuda Paperbag Shorts, $30
Starting off with one of the most-loved paperbag shorts to date: the classic bow-tie denim. The pair instantly enhances your plain ole’ cutoffs, too, and we love how this adorable grab is just $30 on Amazon.
2. Bardot Belle Paperbag Vegan Leather Short, $88
For a trendy, put-together outfit, complete the look with Bardot’s vegan leather paperbag shorts. We adore how they’re a bit longer than most — great for all-day comfort — and how this match-all comfort looks great with white sneakers or cowboy boots alike.
3. Lulus Jemima Paperbag-Waist Shorts, $49
If you’re looking for a subtle pop of color to stray away from the classic-yet-frequently worn beige, this sage green color on Lulus’ Jemima Paperbag-Waist Shorts is waitlist-inducing. We love the petite bow, too, giving this pair a precious feel.
4. Princess Polly Open Road Denim Paperbag Shorts, $46
A personal favorite, Princess Polly’s Open Road Denim Paperbag Shorts are extremely versatile to wear (cuff them off or wear them with a frayed hem for a bit of edge) and have lasted us for years. Please, drop $46 on these — and thank us later.
5. SHEIN VCAY Rolled Hem Self Belted Striped Shorts, $9
Adorable and sailor-inspired, SHEIN’s striped paperbag shorts are just $9 and give off all the summer feels. With a white crop top and your best pair of sandals, you’ll be unstoppable.
6. Banana Republic Linen-Blend Paperbag Short, $33, original price: $65
These linen-blend paperbag shorts are the perfect balance of loungewear and upscale wear. With a designer clutch (or some tennis shoes!) the fit will be serving some serious streetwear looks.
7. Lauren Ralph Lauren Striped Shorts, $88, original price: $125
We don’t like to choose favorites, but Lauren Ralph Lauren’s come close. With your favorite ornate belt, this high-waist short in the black and white stripes are a sight to see styled. Though a splurge, the high-quality fit makes it worth it.
8. Derek Lamb 10 Crosby Dion Paper-Bag Denim Shorts, $265
We love these particular shorts for its use of a braided denim belt that really ties the traditionally casual look together. Plus, it looks like you put in so much more effort into your overall outfit than you actually did.
9. LOFT Paperbag Shorts, $12, original price: $57
Classic, cute and comfortable, there’s no other pair quite like LOFT’s Paperbag Shorts. The $12 steal comes in a couple different shades, but this gray color — especially with a floral, dainty top — is our first choice.
10. Lovers and Friends Shelby Shorts, $168
White paperbag shorts are a style that’ll never leave and we’re over the moon about it. Lovers and Friends’ Shelby Shorts are some of the best we sought out, with its slightly contoured hem and built-in belt detail. They bring a crisp, put-together feel that’ll have you confidently running errands or grabbing brunch.
11. SweatyRocks Elastic Waist Paperbag Shorts, $20
How adorable are SweatyRocks’ Elastic Waist Paperbag Shorts? They come in several different variations but we couldn’t resist featuring this blue and white-striped design with the cutest brown button detailing known to man. For just $20, it’s time to give them a buy.
12. Petal & Pup Paige Faux Leather Shorts, $20, original price: $50
While black is normally the first shade of when you think of leather shorts, this taupe shade should not be skipped out on. They’re perfect for picnics, photoshoots or a sunny stroll in the park — and they’re easy-breezy to wear.
13. Lulus Friendship High-Waisted Paperbag Shorts, $38
Let’s talk about pleats, baby. These bold lime green bottoms are eye-catching and vibrant, which is perfect for the neon trend that has swept the fashion world — and we love how airy they fit. Plus, the pair is less than $50.
14. Majorelle Thalia Shorts, $20, original price: $138
This summer, we’re all about the bright colors. Pick up this high-waisted pair that’s sure to be your go-to for years to come. They’re polished, feature tiny scalloped detailing and are able to be dressed up with your favorite blazer for a more professional look.
15. Lovers and Friends Kerry Short, $128
Now, these are pink shorts! Lovers and Friends’ Kerry Shorts are the ultimate trend-setter, offering a lightweight and feminine-minded fit. Though a splurge, they’ll be in your wardrobe for years of outdoor parties and evening dinners with friends.
16. Unsubscribed Silk Paperbag Waist Short, $138
Treat yourself to some silky smooth bottoms with these 100% silk shorts. The versatile design means you can dress them up with a blouse or keep it casual with a white T-shirt. Whichever you choose it’s sure to look stylish.
Best Paperbag Pants
1. SySea High-Waisted Palazzo Pants, $38
As an Amazon best-seller, SySea’s High-Waisted Palazzo Pants are just $35 and ready for you to buy them in practically every color you can think of. Either for brunch or for work, they’ll serve you well.
2. Free People Sky Rider Straight Leg, $116, original price: $128
Keep it casual with Free People’s straight leg, relaxed pair of paperbag pants. The sweet pink shade will look gorgeous with a black or white tea, and you can easily wear your favorite sandals or everyday tennis sneakers with them.
3. Lulus Trend Alert Belted High-Waisted Wide-Leg Pants, $54
Sporty or chic? With Lulus’ Trend Alert Belted High-Waisted Wide-Leg Pants, you get both (which we’re not complaining about). With slight pleating and that adorable bow-tie waist we know and love, there’s no surprise the brand falls into one of our favorites for wide-leg pants.
4. Lucy Paris Faux Leather Paperbag-Waist Pants, $98
Let’s be real — leather pants are having a moment. So, we’re letting that moment ride.
Available in that cult-favorite brown and tried-and-true black, we’re thrilled Lucy Paris’ quality pair is just shy of $100 (and look super cute, too).
5. LOFT Paperbag Taper Pants, $12, original price: $80
LOFT has some of the most amazing fashion finds, and its paperbag pants are no exception. Pick up its now-on-sale pair, available in different colors, to wear to work or out on the town.
6. Petal & Pup Dexter Paperbag Waist Jean, $69
Give your denim look an upgrade with this elegant paperbag design that features a matching tie belt that’ll really tie the look together. The light wash color and scrunched waistband will give a whole new meaning to business casual apparel
7. Lulus Plaid Dash Grey and Black Plaid Paperbag Pants, $54
Bring some pattern to your wardrobe with these sophisticated paperbag pants from Lulus. The bow belt is adjustable to fit your preferences and would look gorgeous styled with a button down or silky top.
8. Marissa Webb Alder Canvas Balloon Pant, $72, original price: $398
Ditch the classic blue, brown and black hues and mix some orange into your color palette. These pants can easily go from day to night and feature a casual yet fun balloon leg fit.
9. NIMIN Casual Loose Pants, $36
You don’t have to sacrifice your comfort just to stay on trend and these loose paperbag pants prove just that. The elastic band prevents feeling restricted while the flowy cropped legs will keep you feeling cool and breezy during those warm months.
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