Biker shorts are not only just for workouts and bike rides, but have resurfaced from their time in 80's and 90's and are back as athleisure! Originally, the first known pairs of biker shorts originated in the late 19th century, as the bicycle presented a new form of transportation that virtually anyone could access and cyclists required more comfortable bottoms. Due to formality of the then Victorian-style, they could not wear their everyday clothes and ride, and required something with more mobility. The first pairs of biker shorts were not created with spandex or cotton material like the ones we know today, but were instead made out of wool.
Then throughout the 20th century, new fabrics and technology were applied to performance wear, from silk to lycra. Bright, colorful biker shorts became a very popular wardrobe piece, due to the rise in exercise workout videos, often worn underneath leotards.
And you know the whole biker shorts, over sized sweater, chunky sneaker trend? That wasn't started by the Kardashian-Jenners, or the Hadids. It was started the Queen of Streetstyle herself, the beautiful late Princess Diana.
Princess Diana frequently wore this ensemble all the way back in 1995 when she'd go to the gym and run errands over the city, which set a trend, but also actually broke the royal family dress code. Over-sized clothing was considered masculine, and wearing short shorts was a no-no because showing skin was looked down upon. She was photographed wearing these outfits, but she was technically "off-duty"as a princess in some of them. Of course, it is well known that Princess Diana broke the royal family dress code many times, but her daring and iconic choice to defy it made her stand out from the family that at the time was considered stiff and uptight.
Today, models to fashion enthusiasts can be found sporting a look similar to hers.
Photos are from Pinterest
Biker shorts are still in, today in 2020, as people run errands or go out for brunch, and they can be worn as a casual or classy look.
A casual biker short look is usually an over-sized sweater and t-shirt with cool kicks, just like Princess Diana. These shorts can also be paired with a crop top or even a halter top as well.
Examples of Styling Biker Shorts Casually
Photos are from Pinterest
A more classy biker short look is achieved by simply pairing a blazer over your top when wearing your biker shorts and you could even cinch the waist of your blazer with a belt. Sneakers could still be worn with this outfit, but some opt for cute flats to make it a little more of a formal outfit or even heels.
Examples of Styling Biker Shorts Classily
Photos are from Pinterest
Do you like biker shorts? Are you about to order yourself a pair? If you liked this post, please make sure to give it a like on the blog!
Happy Wardrobe Wednesday!
Arrivederci,
Brianna