Better Beauty: Shorts for All Ages

TAMPA, FL --Finding flattering shorts can be a frustrating task. With so many styles and lengths to chose from, it's hard to know which one is appropriate for you. Follow these tips to find the right shorts for your age and body type.

20's
When you're in your twenties and in great shape, you can wear any style of shorts and look fabulous. Super short shorts are in fashion right now and we put our model Kaitlyn in a pair of hot pink floral shorts to show off her long, lean legs. We added a pair of brightly colored tank tops to create a layered look and play up the bold colors in her shorts. If you are tall you can wear many lengths of shorts including long shorts or capris. If you are on the petite side, however, shorter shorts will make your legs appear longer.

30's
When you are in your thirties, you should opt for a little more coverage. At this age you probably want to look for a pair of shorts with a 4" inseam or longer. We put our model Kim in a pair of mid-thigh length white walking shorts. The cuffs help balance her hips and her small waist is accentuated by tucking in her top. Another way to camouflage larger hips is to find a pair of shorts with a drawstring and tie it just tight enough to sit comfortably above your hips. The little extra bulk the tie creates balances out the hips nicely--just be sure to tuck in your top.

40's
Once you hit forty, you have probably had a kid or two and want to go with a pair of shorts that help to play up your assets while concealing any figure flaws. We put our plus-size model, Molly, in a pair of madras shorts and a dark brown v-neck top. Just because you have a full figure doesn't mean you have to forgo prints. Plaids and vertical stripes can make you appear more slender. However, avoid prints that are very small as they will make you look larger by comparison. The dark top is a nice contrast to the print and helps to make a full tummy appear slimmer. (Another tip: skip the pleats and any closure that gathers or bunches at the belly if you are wide through the middle.)

50's and beyond
When you have reached 50 or above, think about keeping it "classic". You don't want to appear as if you're dressing too young...or too old. Keep to classic styles and colors. We put our model Nidia in a knee-length flat-front black pair of shorts that come just to the knee and matched it with a white summer sweater. Black and white never goes out of style and the weave of the sweater camouflages any rolls or bulges. Complete the look with some great accessories, like a pair of oversized sunglasses, and you will look agelessly cool!

If you are just testing the waters when it comes to wearing shorts, go for solid neutral colors in simple styles as they will be easier to wear. And remember, choosing the right shorts is all about you and your comfort level. Wear what you like and enjoy!