What Are Micro Shorts and Why Are They Trending in 2024?

In the fashion universe, trends come and go, weaving in elements of culture, empowerment, and functionality. One such trend that's caught the eye and imagination of many in 2024 is the resurgence of micro shorts. Many people are for micro shorts (AKA hot pants), and others..... not so much!

Recently, Free People sparked a fire in their online community when they posted a few of their new micro shorts. These teeny tiny shorts don’t leave anything to the imagination and they’re definitely only meant for a certain body type — unless you want your whole booty showing. Jokes aside, some people are embracing the micro shorts trend, especially celebs. Hailey Bieber is the queen of micro shorts, donning them before they became a new trend. On one such occasion, she wore them with a black biker jacket, sheer tights, and heels.

Are short shorts here to stay? Why are they trending and how can you get your hands on them? We answer all your questions in more, below. Read ahead for everything you need to know about wearing short shorts.

The Revival of Micro Shorts

Micro shorts, also known as hot pants, are essentially an ultra-short version of shorts. Characterized by their high waist and narrow leg opening, they expose more skin than traditional shorts, making a bold statement about body confidence. They’re known for their mini hemline that can mimic a pair of boy short underwear. Kristen Stewart recently wore a pair of cable knit underwear — er, micro shorts — with ruby red heels and an opened button down shirt. Honestly, it’s giving ‘the walk of shame’ but it’s so chic and she pulls it off so well.

Why Are Micro Shorts Trending?

Less is more! Micro shorts are bold and turn heads — and that’s the statement people want to make when they’re wearing these teeny tiny bad boys. Plus, if you want to show off your legs, micro mini shorts are a great opportunity to do so.

Cultural Shift Towards Body Positivity

At the heart of the micro shorts trend is a burgeoning cultural shift towards body positivity and empowerment. This trend champions the idea that all bodies are beautiful and worthy of celebration, encouraging individuals to wear what they feel confident and comfortable in, free from societal constraints.

Desire for Comfort and Functionality

Following the rise of athleisure and casual dressing, there's been a growing desire for clothing that's not just stylish but also functional and comfortable. Micro shorts fit this bill perfectly, offering versatility to be dressed up for a night out or down for a casual day in, all while ensuring the wearer stays comfortable.

Influence of Social Media

The impact of social media on fashion trends cannot be overstated, and micro shorts are no exception. Influencers and celebrities regularly showcasing these bold pieces have played a pivotal role in their popularity, demonstrating how to style them in innovative and appealing ways.

Who's Wearing Micro Shorts?

While micro shorts appeal to a broad audience, they've found particular resonance among fitness enthusiasts. This group values the comfort and functionality of micro shorts, making them a staple for both workouts and leisure, reflecting a lifestyle centered around health, fitness, and effortless style.

As a fashion statement, many celebrities including Kristen Stewart, Hailey Bieber, Zendaya, and Emily Ratajkowski, have been wearing them as street style and casual outings. They can also be seen at Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana, Duran Lantink, Isabel Marant, and Laquan Smith fashion runways shows.

How to Style Micro Shorts

Because micro shorts expose a lot of skin, many women choose to cover up other parts of their body. You can wear a blazer, leather jacket, or bomber jacket to complete your look. We’re also big fans of wearing sheer tights and knee-high boots to bring attention to your legs.

What is the difference between daisy dukes and hotpants?

Daisy dukes and hot pants can be old ways of saying “micro shorts” or “mini shorts.” Daisy Dukes are also considered to be short denim cut-offs with a low waist, where the term originated in the 1960s based off Catherine Bach's character in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” On the other hand, hotpants are tight shorts made of various materials like sequin, leather, corduroy, or nylon material. The term hot pants also originated in the 1970s during the disco era.

Micro shorts, on the other hand, are even shorter than daisy dukes, hot pants, or short shorts you’d see at the gym with a crop top. They typically don’t have leg seams and have a similar cut as underwear.

The trend towards micro shorts in 2024 transcends mere fashion choices, touching on deeper themes of empowerment. As society continues to evolve, so too does our expression through clothing, with micro shorts representing just one facet of a broader movement towards authenticity and unrestricted self-expression. Whether you're hitting the gym or styling them for a night out, micro shorts are more than just clothing—they're a statement.

Shop our shorts collection at back2basics here!