Just when it seemed like capris had secured their spot as the fashion-person alternative to pants, another silhouette is quickly gaining ground for early fall. Voluminous shorts are popping up everywhere, offering a fresh way to transition out of summer dressing without immediately reaching for jeans and trousers. Think short hemlines with a little extra shape—whether through subtle pleating, a bubble-like silhouette, or a relaxed, billowy fit—that make even the simplest outfit feel more directional.
The appeal is in the proportions. Compared to standard cutoffs or fitted shorts, these roomier styles create a more interesting silhouette while still feeling surprisingly easy to wear. They also lend themselves particularly well to early-fall styling, when it's still too warm for full-length pants but you're ready to add substantial layers, closed-toe shoes, and richer textures.
Consider voluminous shorts the unexpected bridge between seasons. They can feel polished, playful, or minimalist depending on how they're styled, which means there's plenty of inspiration to carry them well beyond the final warm days of the year. Ahead, we're highlighting the outfits that prove this non-pants trend deserves a spot in your early-fall rotation—and perhaps even a little more attention than capris.
Voluminous Shorts Outfits(Image credit: @fakerstrom)Get the look: Crisp button-down shirt + Voluminous shorts + Heeled sandals
Polo Ralph Lauren Oxford Cotton Button-Up Shirt ZARA Cuffed Shorts (Image credit: @claire_most)Get the look: Tank + Voluminous shorts + Heeled sandals + Oversized bag
Open Edit Rib Tank Chan Luu Techno Taffeta Long Shorts (Image credit: @hoskelsa)Get the look: Fitted button-down shirt + Voluminous shorts + Flip-flops
Banana Republic The Everyday Shirt in Cotton Poplin Ciao Lucia Mariko Short (Image credit: @fakerstrom)Get the look: Oversized button-down shirt + Voluminous shorts + Flip-flops
AGOLDE Aris Button Down Shirt MANGO Straight Linen Blend Bermuda Shorts (Image credit: @cocoschiffer)Get the look: Button-down shirt + T-shirt + Voluminous shorts + Belt + Heels
TWP Next Ex Button Down Shirt Lioness Odette Bloomers (Image credit: @aimeesong)Get the look: Button-down shirt + Sweater + Voluminous shorts + Tall socks + Loafers
Madewell The Signature Y-Neck Shirt in Poplin Topshop Boxer Shorts in Pink and Purple Stripes (Image credit: @immegii)Get the look: Fitted jacket + Voluminous shorts + Oversized sunglasses + Heels
ALIGNE Bonnie Ponte Waisted Blazer Lioness Bare Shorts (Image credit: @monpetitchuchu)Get the look: Long-sleeve shirt + Voluminous shorts + Belt + Flats
FP Movement Up Next Scoop Long Sleeve Leset Yoko Shorts (Image credit: @izzydilg)Get the look: Trench coat + Printed top + Matching voluminous shorts + Pointed-toe heels
LE BOP Lace Trim Tank LE BOP Lace Trim Shorts (Image credit: @monpetitchuchu)Get the look: Blouse + Voluminous shorts + Ballet flats
MANGO Ruffled Lyocell Blouse CAMI NYC Oslo Cotton Poplin Drawstring Shorts