shorts

Shorts are by far the biggest summer trend this year and as temperatures rise we see them in every variation.

Everybody needs at least one great all-purpose pair. We shopped for every body type so you get the maximum flattering fit.

Cutoff jean shorts are a summer-wardrobe staple.

First, let's get this out of the way: Yes, these are called tap pants after the shorts such dancers wear during their routines.

After a one-year hiatus spent with her now 16-month-old son Julien in Austin, Texas, L.A. designer and former model Jesse Kamm (jessekamm.com) is making a huge comeback with her spring collection. Anchored in simple silhouettes, such as cropped linen trousers, silk tank tops, and loose shift dresses, mostly rendered in muted peach and cream tones, the collection, Kamm says, is "quite a new direction for me." Departing from the intricate graphic prints she was known for using, Kamm now adheres to a more streamlined, minimalist aesthetic. "It feels fresh. It feels clean, and the vibe is sexy, easy, and sophisticated."

The Scene: Quiet, calm, and serene--two rows of editors sat in a gigantic light-filled studio at Industria in the Meatpacking District. The Look: Mini shift dresses, flat front shorts, cropped cigarette pants, and crisp button-front shirts, finished off with winklepicker flats, clear Cara Croninger cuffs, and bubble-shaped pendant necklaces that lent an earthy prep-meets-modernist vibe. The Pieces We Want: The crisp short suits and every one of those mini dresses. Click through for photos.

These key pieces make it easy to strike the perfect relaxed-chic balance.From the October 2010 issue.

Tailored shorts are a great alternative to a skirt during hot summer months. Wear them with a blazer to create the look of a summery suit or style them with gladiator flats and a slouchy tee, like this girl on the street did, for a laid-back yet still-polished look. Here are three similar pairs you can buy right now: 1. New York & Company, $34.95, nyandcompany.com 2. Tulle Clothing, $42.99, modcloth.com 3. Haute Hippie, $235, nordstrom.com

We're really loving high-waist floral shorts this summer--they look adorable paired with simple tees and sandals. A style in a darker print, like this girl's, will work for fall, too, with a cozy sweater, tights, and ankle boots.

The movie might be about Italy, India, and Indonesia, but Julia Roberts looked decidedly New York last night in all black at the premiere of Eat Pray Love.