Biker Chic, Not Biker Chick: How to Style Bike Shorts with Style

If you have been following the hottest quarantine trends of this year and last, then you will know that bike shorts have been one of them. They have proven undoubtedly convenient for any work-from-home lifestyle outside of sweatpants (when you want to switch up the rotation) and they are so easy to turn into effortlessly stylish outfits. Take the following seven simple ideas for example of how to style bike shorts.

Long T-Shirt & Bike Shorts

This trend is easy to pull off but oh so comfortable and chic too. I recommend doing an all monochrome look in head-to-toe beige or a fun pop of color like seafoam green. Or, you can grab your Bermuda length bike shorts in black and pair it with your favorite oversize classic rock (Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Nirvana, etc.) band/graphic tee. Keep this style fresh with a chunky pair of fashion sneakers or tennis shoes. If you are into the trend, add a pair of white tube socks. Switch things up with an unexpected chain crossbody mini bag and a jean jacket with extra volume.

Oversize Sweatshirt & Bike Shorts

Anyone recall the iconic Princess Diana bike short and sweatshirt looks? She had a few, but infamously wore her black bike shorts with a vintage Harvard University grey mock neck sweatshirt and made it a style that is branded in my mind forever. In fact, I replicated this exact style by thrifting a similar sweatshirt during quarantine (one of my new favorites I might add). At any rate, this style is simple to recreate by using one of your own college sweatshirts or even a plain crew neck sweatshirt for that matter. Add a pair of colored bike shorts if you dare. This look is meant to be sporty, so sport those sneaks (and socks) and you’re good to go.

Blouse & Faux Leather Bike Shorts

Faux leather bike shorts are one of those pieces you could take from day to night or casual to dressy in no time. They are super edgy, versatile, and just plain cool. Also, SPANX carries one particular faux leather bike short that has a contoured waistband made to hold you in. So, they are very flattering too. Add a tight-fitting bodysuit to wear underneath and that way you could do a layered look whether you wanted to add a fancy satin blouse if you are going out or a casual button-down if you are just hanging out. Depending on which occasion you find yourself in, faux leather bike shorts look great with sneakers or heels and your blouse of choice.

Bike Shorts with Layers

Keep your look cool and casual by adding layers. Running out to meet a friend for a casual lunch date in the afternoon? Layer a cropped black tank top or ribbed sports bra under an oversized blouse or flannel top. Then, take a crewneck sweater or jacket and tie it around your waist for an extra layer-y vibe. Love mixing different textures, colors, and materials here too. Since this is more of a daytime casual outfit, pair with Teva sandals, Birkenstocks, UGG boots, or casual sneakers. Backpacks, fanny packs or even your hobo purse will do well with this everyday style.

Blazer, Crop Tee & Bike Shorts

Give your high-waisted bike shorts a match it deserves by coupling it with a trendy cropped top. Dare to bare a little skin or not, the crop top is a fun choice to wear for that 90s vibe and is great for summer too. Take this look from day to night or give it a little spin by adding a blazer. Take it monochrome but wearing a black blazer with black bike shorts or by wearing a plaid blazer. Keep a sporty vibe with socks and sneakers or opt for next-level sophistication by adding heels.

Whenever a chic blazer is involved keep the handbags classy. Tote your oversized baguette clutch or structured cross-body bag.

Dress & Bike Shorts

Why not style your bike shorts with a flirty spring dress? Take your man out on a date or vice versa. Mini styles or slip dresses would be so cute here with a flared or ruffled skirt. Think florals, pastels, lace, button fronts, and chiffons. Anything that is sweet, feminine, and pretty. Imagine this almost as a refined Punky Brewster a la the ‘80s TV sitcom. Dress your adorable frock up with an edgy black or brown leather jacket – one that’s a baggier style. Complete this look with ankle booties, loafers or mules, and a small leather satchel. Add some dainty gold layered necklaces and a statement ring (i.e. turquoise, opal, or moonstone).

Cardigan, Tank & Bike Shorts

Staying in? Grab your cardigan. Bike shorts are the best for lounging at home too. They come in ribbed styles now that come in the softest fabrics you will never want to take them off. These bike shorts are made for sleepwear too so pair them with a tank that’s a similar style and color. Then, layer with one of your favorite cozy, chunky, and long cardigans. This is an ideal loungewear look but could even pass for a quick run out to your local coffee shop too. Toss on a pair of casual slides as you head out or a comfy pair of tennis shoes. Add a messenger bag or large canvas tote bag in case you have to do some light shopping afterward.