Source: getty, HB writers / Getty
Fashion is having a hot girl moment — literally. The mini shorts and hot pants trend has returned with a vengeance, turning up the heat on runways, red carpets, and street style alike.
If you search your favorite celebrity or fashion influencer chances are they’ve been rocking a version of a hot pants look. Think Keke Palmer, Tokyo Styles, Kelly Rowland, Fantasia, Kandi Burruss, and more.
While the trend has been around for some time, it’s clear that it’s not going anywhere soon. Once thought to be a spring and summer staple, fashionistas, from celebrities to HB writers, are making it work for fall, winter, and beyond.
The trend is bold and for baddies only. So, let’s talk about how to make it your own.
1. Tights, Please: Layer with Tights for Cold Weather Realness
Hot pants and tights are a match made in fashion heaven – especially in the fall and winter. Layering tights under mini shorts adds warmth, edge, and dimension.
While many fashion lovers choose black, opaque tights for a sleek classic look – like HB fashion editor Lauren Evette – there are other options to try. Consider bold patterned tights or fishnets for a little “that girl” energy.
Pro Tip: Take it further with statement tights in jewel tones (think emerald green, deep purple, or ruby red) to add a pop of color beneath your neutral shorts.
2. Suited Up: Turn your Mini Shorts Look into a Power Suit
One way to upgrade your hot pants is with a suited look. Wearing them with an elongated jacket adds a grown and sexy finish.
A matching tailored blazer or a long trench coat works perfectly. The coordinate lets you keep things a little covered up (until you don’t want to be). We’re talking talking totally CEO vibes like Big Boss Keke Palmer.
Source: TheStewartofNY / Getty
3. Sheer Genius: Pair Hot Pants with a Sheer Top
Make your hot pants even more daring with a sheer top. A mesh, chiffon, or lace blouse adds a layer of elegance while still giving that peek-a-boo effect. Style your sheer shirt with a bralette or bandeau of the same color underneath.
Style Tip: Opt for monochromatic looks to give it that polished, runway-ready feel. A black sheer blouse and black leather hot pants, as HB’s Managing Director Shamika Sanders wore on a recent date night, is chef’s kiss.
4. Making Hot Pants Even Hauter: Play with Bold Colors, Fringe, and Metallics
If you are a baddie who loves to stand out, this tip is for you. Make your hot pants even more the star of the show with funky fabrics, fringe details, or vibrant colors. We’re talking fringe that dances while you move, bold colors that make people stare, and metallics that are simply iconic.
Kelly Rowland wore a version of funky hot pants while attending the Book of Clarence LA premiere earlier this year. Wowing on the red carpet, she stunned in a black and gold metallic body suit with a matching jacket.
Pro Tip: The key to this style is to let the pants be the statement. Keep other jewelry, hair, and beauty details simple.
Ready to try the hot pants trend this winter?
Sis, you should be! From day parties to date nights, these little statement-makers are versatile, bold, and endlessly fun to style. Whether you’re pairing them with sheer tops, tights, boots, or bold textures, this trend is all about owning your confidence.
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