TOP 10 SUMMER SHORTS SEWING PATTERNS

Summer is the perfect time to sew yourself a pair of shorts that's uniquely yours. As someone who has been a little "shorts-shy", the recent heatwave left me wondering why I have this annoying gap in my wardrobe. Is anyone with me on this? We owe it to ourselves to give shorts a chance and turn them into a summer staple.

Whether you're after something tailored and polished, playful and fun, or effortlessly comfortable, there's a pattern out there waiting for you. We've rounded up ten of our favourite designs that showcase the incredible range of styles available—from beginner-friendly makes to more intricate designs that will truly test your skills. Read on to discover your next summer sewing project.

Kate is chatting through these wonderful patterns in this video! 

Fabric Godmother Ren Shorts

The modern staple

Designed to bring effortless tailoring into your everyday wardrobe, the Ren Shorts are a modern summer staple with a clean, structured feel. This clever pattern gives the appearance of tailored shorts, without all the fiddly steps. They are a polished, modern staple, classic enough to never go out of style. The bermuda length is a great option for anyone who doesn't fancy themselves (like me!) a shorts-wearer.

Fibre Mood Mina Shorts

The flouncy pair

If you lean towards skirts in the summer, this pattern has the swish of a skirt with the comfort of shorts, and I am here for it! Mina looks like a flouncy mini circle skirt, but is actually a light, playful pair of shorts. The elastic waistband ensures comfort, and the tie threaded through buttonholes at the centre front adds a lovely accent. They would be perfect for pulling on after a hard day at the beach :)

Paradise Patterns Rose Bottoms

The sporty-chic style

I became fixated on this pattern after finding it was a perfect match for an M&S pair in a previous blog post. The design feels very sports luxe, with the standout V-cutout and elasticated waistband. There is an option to have a hem band, with stripe play in mind. This fun feature opens up the floor to customisation opportunities.

Helen's Closet Winslow Culottes

The cult favourite

If you have been part of the sewing community for some time, you have most likely stumbled upon Winslow at some point. Maybe you knew they were much-loved culottes, but did you know the design includes an excellent shorts option? I didn't! Choose from the classic wide-leg shorts or the easy-to-sew wrap shorts, both as lovely as each other. The above-the-knee length is another great choice for the shorts-shy!

Les Perlines Playback Skort

The shorts in disguise

I wanted to include a range of options in this round-up to suit all tastes, so this skort gives you a different take on summer shorts. When a skirt meets shorts, you get a skort. Ideal for skirt lovers who are shorts-curious. The Playback Skort is a slightly A-line mini skirt featuring an elasticated waistband and integrated shorts. It's perfect for those on-the-go summer days where you want comfort and practicality!

Sew Over It Keira Shorts

The one with a smidge of elastic

A useful pair of shorts that can read utility or vintage, depending on your fabric choice and styling, Keira is a top-tier option. The pattern has all the features you would look for from a well-constructed and fitted pair of trousers, but with some hidden comfort. They have a partially elasticated waistband at the back sides. This will help achieve a good fit that flexes with you. An essential detail for summer shorts, in my book!

Matchy Matchy Weekend Chore Shorts

The easy-peasy sew

If you are just starting out on your sewing journey, this pattern will help you to sew a pair of shorts you will be so proud to wear. The loose-fitting, stylised utility shorts are packed with fun details such as the apron-style front and back pockets. Scrapbusters will be pleased to hear the shorts were designed to look great in a single fabric or patchwork style.

Spaghetti Western Willa Shorts

The fun one

Shorts generally only come out to play in the summer months, so they should be fun and playful, shouldn't they? The pattern features generous ease, a high rise, elastic waist, ruffle hem, and curved split side seam for extra ventilation. The adorable ruffle avoids being too girly thanks to the sporty edge of the boxer style. They expertly balance sweet and sporty.

Puff and Pencil Breezy Shorts

The throw-it-on-and-go pair

This pattern is a must-have for the throw-it-on-and-go crowd. Whether you are heading to the park, the beach or the garden, these comfortable shorts are the perfect companion. They feature an elastic waistband with an adjustable tie, two front pockets, and two back pockets. The pattern also includes two length options, so you can choose how short your shorts are!

True Bias Dani Pants and Short

The flat front and elastic in the back pair

If you were one of the many shouting out for patterns with a flat front and elastic in the back, this is your shorts pattern. Dani is an elastic waist short or pant with in-seam and rear pockets, a small paperbag high waist, and a cuff. You can sew them up with a zip-fly to have a clean and neat finish in the front, or go for ultimate comfort and make them with a fully elasticated waistband. The choice is yours!

If you were looking for your summer shorts pattern and didn't find it in this blog post, you can browse more styles here!