Anyone Under 5’ 4” Knows This Shorts-and-Shoe Combination Always Looks Elevated
Dressing for summer is rarely straightforward, but if you’re under 5' 4", navigating the season’s swishy dresses and sweeping skirts can feel especially challenging. With comfort and ease all high on the agenda, locking in a few go-to outfit formulas is key—and this week, actor Bel Powley just reminded me of one of the chicest.
Skipping dresses and skirts entirely, Powley stepped out for an afternoon at Wimbledon in a petite-friendly take on summer tailoring. Elongating her 5' 2" frame, Powley's look began with a crisp cotton shirt in a soft blue hue, creating a classic and versatile base which she elevated by opting for a knee-grazing pair of high-waisted Bermuda shorts in a vivid poppy red.
On Bel Powley: ME+EM Italian Cotton Oversized Shirt (£185), ME+EM Pop Colour Tailored Bermuda Short (£175), ME+EM Reversible Belt (£95), Tory Burch Chain Leather Pumps (£250), Fendi Spy Leather Bag (£2650)
To finish the look, Powley added a pair of sleek pointed-toe Tory Burch heels, the sharp silhouette of which subtly elongated her legs, especially when paired with the lengthening effect of the high-rise shorts, creating a silhouette that felt clean and cleverly proportioned.
While Powley’s look nodded to several key summer trends—the Bermuda shorts, the butter-yellow handbag, the powder-blue shirt—it also carried a sense of timelessness that makes it feel like a formula worth returning to summer after summer.
If you're after an easy, elegant outfit to lean on in the heat, consider this your cue. Scroll on to shop Powley’s look and discover the best Bermuda shorts and pointed-toe heels to recreate the silhouette for yourself.
Shop Bel Powley's Outfit:
ME+EM
Italian Cotton Oversized Shirt
This fresh shade of pale blue is one of my favourite colours to wear throughout the summer months.
ME+EM
Pop Colour Tailored Bermuda Short
Style with strappy sandals or pair with a point-toe heels à la Powley.
Style this over Bermuda shorts or layer it over a simple slip dress.
Tory Burch
Chain Leather Pumps
Shop these while they're on sale.
The butter yellow colour trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
Shop Long Shorts and Pointed-Toe Shoes:
Zara
Bermuda Shorts With Darts and Belt
These also come in four other shades.
Mango
Patent Heeled Shoes
The glossy patent finish gives these such an elevated edge.
Hush
Linen Blend Lya Bermuda Shorts
These come in regular and short lengths, so you can find your perfect fit.
Zara
Leather Pointed Shoes 50th Anniversary
Honestly, these look more expansive than they actually are.
COS
Tailored Wide-Leg Shorts
Be quick! These won't stay in stock for long.
Reformation
Nour Heeled Slingback
Don't wait—these are on their way to selling out.
Topshop
Tailored Longline Shorts
Add a pop of colour to your summer rotation.
AEYDE
Saba Buckled Patent-Leather Slingback Pumps
The slingback detailing adds a sleek point of interest as well as light support.
Mango
Striped Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts
Style with the matching blouse or pair with a boxy shirt.
Amina Muaddi
Anok Patent-Leather Point-Toe Pumps
These also come in a rich burgundy shade.
