Redefining Casual – Shorts

The only thing that looks worse on me than jeans is shorts.  Okay, capris look bad too but I think they look bad on everyone so I don’t even consider them an option.  The thing is I’m short, like barely 5’4″ on a good day, and I’m a little on the chubby side with strong, sturdy legs that are pasty white due to living in Idaho and well, the fact I’m pasty white (I’ve been asked at least 5 times in my life why I’m so white).  The thing is, just like jeans, I can’t avoid wearing shorts.  I prefer skirts and dresses because I look about 10x better in them than anything else, and there is nothing better than a one and done type dress.  However, there are occasions in the summer where shorts are required.  Camping comes to mind as does hiking and other various outdoor activities.  And to be honest, most of my dresses are statement pieces that can’t be worn everyday because people would notice and think I never change my clothes.

On my quest for shorts this year I had a few requirements.  1- they couldn’t be Bermuda shorts because they cut my leg in half making me look shorter.  2- they couldn’t be too short either. 3- I wanted a loose short that skimmed my leg but still looked polished and fitted.  Well, I found some shorts that met my requirement but only in black and white so I bought both colors.  Sadly, I still have yet to find a jean pair.

I just got back from an Alaskan cruise and it was cold and rainy the whole week.  When I returned to 80 degree weather, I pulled out my shorts and gave them a go.  They were perfect for a day of running errands and playing catch up.  I threw on a chambray shirt over my fitted striped tee to keep the sun off my pasty white arms and to hide a few extra pounds I gained on the cruise (seriously a week of unlimited food people).  A fedora covered unwashed hair and some sunglasses protected my eyes.

Splurging on a pair of Birkenstocks was the best decision I’ve made in the past few months.  They are so comfortable and add the cool factor to my basic outfits.

I ran into a coworker while running errands and he told me he liked my hat and told me hats are underutilized by women these days.  Anytime a man tells you something looks good on you…run with it.  So basically I’m saying I’m on a hat spree right about now.

  // // // // // //  //

A side note, direct lighting equals bad shadows.  I’m still learning about photography and trying to grow my skills but I’m having fun during the process.

So while I continue my love/hate relationship with shorts, at least I found a couple to get me through the 3 months of hot weather we have in Idaho.  Yes, I said 3 months.  4 if we are lucky.  Did I mention I’m pasty white?  #redefiningcasual