Kelly Clarkson's Trouser Shorts Are a Polished Alternative for When It's Too Hot for Jeans — Try the Trend for $12

See how she styled them

Credit: Getty Images (1); Amazon (1)

Denim is a year-round staple, but if jorts aren’t your thing, Kelly Clarkson just made a case for a polished alternative: trouser shorts. In an Instagram Reel from last spring on set of The Kelly Clarkson Show, the host and singer paired crisp white trouser shorts with a striped button-down shirt for an elegant, preppy look.

With their wide hems, breezy pleats, and soft fabric, trouser shorts feel more refined — and often more comfortable — than denim. The tailored style easily dresses up with heels or keeps things casual with white sneakers. Try the trend with similar options from Amazon, Nordstrom, and Quince starting at just $12.

Trouser Shorts Inspired by Kelly Clarkson

Closest Match: Kirundo Pleated Shorts, $26 (orig. $30); Amazon
Long Hem: Luvamia Bermuda Shorts, $23 (orig. $29); Amazon
Seasonal Print: Old Navy Linen-Blend Trouser Shorts, $12 (orig. $30); Old Navy
Front Pleats: Open Edit The Icon Bermuda Shorts, $70; Nordstrom
Selling Fast: Madewell The Zoe Shorts, $78; Madewell
Wide Hem: J.Crew Pleated Short, $70 (orig. $118); J.Crew
Breathable: Lululemon Daydrift Pleated Shorts, $98; Lululemon
Airy Linen: 100% European Linen Trouser Short, $42; Quince
70% Off: Linen-Tencel Bermuda Short, $32 at checkout (orig. $80); Banana Republic
Slouchy Fit: The Utility Short in Buttersoft, $88; Everlane

Related: I'm Building My Go-to Spring Uniform with These Polished but Comfy Amazon Styles — Tees, Jeans, and More from $10

View this post on Instagram

Kirundo Pleated Shorts

~~$30~~

Recreate Clarkson’s style with these similar shorts at Amazon. The high-waisted design can be worn with a tucked-in blouse, white T-shirt, or sweater. The sides have a split hem to make them even more breathable, while double buttons at the waist are both functional and eye-catching.

Luvamia Bermuda Shorts

~~$29~~

Combine two trends with these bermuda trouser shorts. Gwyneth Paltrow is a fan of bermuda shorts, and this pair has a longer design like Paltrow’s for more coverage. The belt loop, front peats, and buttons give them that elegant edge over denim. “They drape beautifully and are very flattering,” one five-star shopper said, calling them a seasonal staple.

Old Navy Linen-Blend Shorts

~~$30~~

Stripes always make a spring return, and we’ve spotted the pattern on celebs like Clarkson, Drew Barrymore, and more. These striped trouser shorts have an extra-high waist for more coverage, belt loops for accessorizing, and functional side pockets. In addition to stripes, you can snag them in solid beige or black for as little as $12.

The weather is only going to warm up from here on out. Make sure you have plenty of shorts on hand with these trouser styles inspired by Kelly Clarkson from Lululemon, Quince, and more below.