Shorts > Shorts: High Waisted Just Took Over — And Low-Rise Isn’t Invited

There’s a reason the low-rise comeback stalled. It flirted, it trended, it tried — but Spring 2026 said no. On the runways (Jacquemus, Chloé, even the more minimal Scandi labels), shorts came back higher, cleaner, and way more controlled. The difference is obvious: instead of feeling thrown on, everything looks placed. Intentional. Like the outfit actually starts somewhere. And right now, that “somewhere” is your waist. If I’m dressing for daytime — actual life, not just vacation fantasy — I want something easy but still pulled together. The Tellaro Short from Mikoh Swimwear hits that perfectly. Linen, relaxed, sitting high without trying to cinch too hard. I’d wear it post-swim with an oversized shirt, half tucked, sunglasses on, no rush. Same goes for the Reyna Shorts — olive cotton, slightly shorter, the kind of piece that makes you look like you have plans even if you don’t. But if you’re actually going somewhere — dinner, drinks, something that requires a little intention — this is where high-waisted shorts really land. The OLGA SHORT from Cult Gaia is sharp. Structured. That subtle texture and pleating gives it shape without overcomplicating things. I’d pair it with something minimal and let the silhouette carry. And then there’s the Mirelle Mini Shorts from Faithfull The Brand — softer, slightly vintage, but still sitting high enough to feel current. I’m also not skipping the off-duty versions, because they’re strong this season. L*Space is doing exactly what I want here. The Striped Diamond Eyes Short — crochet, high-waisted, just undone enough — feels like beach to drinks without overthinking it. Or the Montauk Short, which leans lounge but still reads styled if you keep the top half clean. I’ve also had my eye on Amanda Uprichard and Yumi Kim — both pushing high-waisted shorts into that dressed-up, slightly flirtier space. Not just something you wear on vacation. Something you build an outfit around. So here’s the rule: don’t cover the waist. That’s the whole point. Cropped tank, tucked tee, maybe a blazer if you want to sharpen it. Let the proportions do their thing. High-waisted shorts right now feel like a decision. And honestly, that’s why they look so good.