What To Wear With Cycling Shorts Fashion

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Biker shorts cycled their way through the '80s and '90s, then disappeared. Their modern comeback was a sensation—one that was even embraced on the Chanel runways in 2019. Today, trendsetting celebs, models, and street-style stars continue to make the case for spandex outside of the gym. This trend can be a polarizing one, but much like a tank or a tee, a good pair of biker shorts can be used as a multifaceted base layer. In SHORT: they're whatever you want them to be.

Even biker shorts naysayers can't argue with their comfort and versatility. Dress them up with a blazer and a fab kitten heel, or pair them down with a dependable sneaker and your favorite graphic tee. Ahead, we've got 16 looks that will inspire you to finally take biker shorts out for a spin.

1/48

Tee Off

2/48

ZARA Cream Biker Shorts

Cream biker shorts?! Yes please. Style them with a longer top or tunic dress, and double-check that they're not see-through (this pair are not).

3/48

Balenciaga Oversized Printed Cotton-Jersey T-shirt

Cat-loving fashionistas, this oversized graphic tee is meowing your name.

4/48

& Other Stories Lace-Up Leather Boots

Add a bit of edge to any biker short ensemble with this lace-up leather and track sole ankle boot.

5/48

Sea Ruffle Overlay Denim Jacket

You probably own one (or two, or three) jean jackets already. This season, consider investing in an iteration that boasts a little added oomph.

6/48

Isabel Marant Isabel Marant Crossbody Bag

A practical hands-free bag for a day on the go.

7/48

Button-Downs & Bikers

8/48

Year of Ours Rib Knit Biker Short

The stretch, rib-knit fabric is so comfy, you'll barely feel these at all.

9/48

Helmut Lang Open-back Cotton-Poplin Shirt

Open-back tailoring sets this apart from other button-downs.

10/48

Stuart Weitzman Over-The-Knee Boots

Offset a tiny bottom with a knee-high boot. This version is surprisingly lightweight with a durable rubber sole.

11/48

Tory Burch Lee Radzwill Small Bag

This petite top handle bag is just as stylish as its namesake.

12/48

Bottega Veneta Hexagon Frame Gold Sunglasses

Round out a sophisticated outfit with these sleek gold-frame sunnies.

13/48

Sport-Inspired

14/48

A2Y Ribbed Biker Shorts

Good news: These seamless biker shorts comes in 12 different colorways.

15/48

Ansea The Anorak Jacket

This water-repellant jacket checks our boxes for fashion and function.

16/48

AMI Paris Ami De Coeur Denim Baseball Cap

Ace your look with this light denim baseball hat.

17/48

Brother Vellies Nylon Shoulder Bag

This nylon shoulder strap bag is just the right size for day or evening.

18/48

Chanel Suede Calfskin & Nylon

Staying comfy doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. Case in point: these Chanel sneakers.

19/48

It's Business Time

20/48

ZARA Metal Button Blazer

A structured blazer will instantly elevate any look.

21/48

Catbird NYC Yellow Gold Hoop

Wear these as singles or invest in a full pair.

22/48

Bottega Veneta The Pouch Clutch

Keep this day clutch stocked with the essentials for a chic grab-and-go option.

23/48

Aerie Ribbed Biker Shorts

These navy bikers have UV protection and sweat wicking properties, so you can wear them to work out or go out out.

24/48

Soru Jewellery Ionian Necklace

This chunky chain-link necklace pairs with just about anything.

25/48

MARGAUX The Pointe Flat

These are your new dependable ballet flats.

26/48

Borrowed From The Boys

27/48

Alex Eagle Sporting Club Cashmere Cricket Jumper

This sweater gives off vintage appeal. It's crafted from cashmere made in a 150-year-old mill.

28/48

All Access Center Stage Bike Shorts

These sleek biker shorts are the perfect pairing for a slightly cropped sweater or a half-tucked in rugby shirt.

29/48

On Cloud Sneakers

These lightweight, fully cushioned sneakers look cool, but are technical enough to log some real mileage.

30/48

Sensi Studio Maxi Crossbody Bag

Tote this woven straw bag around the city or use it as a classic beach accessory.

31/48

GLVSS The Snake

These sport inspired frames look cool and have 100 percent UV protection.

32/48

Midriff Moment

33/48

ZARA Fitted Blazer

A cropped blazer adds a bit of sophistication to a basic biker short and bra top combo.

34/48

Jacquemus Novio Layered Knit Bra Top

We told you bra tops were going to be a thing. This one's made from two layers of textured knit fabric and has a sculpted ribbed under band.

35/48

Manolo Blahnik Embellished Print Flats

Manolos are an investment, but like they say: buy once, cry once.

36/48

Wardrobe NYC Stretch-Jersey Bike Shorts

Made with breathable bonded tech fabric, UV protection, and moisture-wicking capabilities, these shorts are not only the perfect length, they're high-tech too.

37/48