5 Shorts Patterns For Summer

Summer sewing is officially happening over here, and this year it feels a little extra fun because I’m not just sewing for myself—I’ve got my daughter home for the summer, too.

She’s working full-time teaching art camps (which is honestly the cutest job ever), and it quickly became clear she needed shorts that actually fit her body and her work requirements. After one very eye-opening shopping trip (hello, low-rise everything 😬), we decided it was time to lean into the real superpower here—making our own.

So today I’m sharing the five shorts patterns I’m planning to sew for this summer—some for her, some for me, and all with very real-life wardrobe needs in mind. Read on or watch here:  

Why We’re Sewing Shorts Instead of Shopping

Let’s just say ready-to-wear didn’t exactly come through for us this time.

My daughter loves a high-rise fit and finding that in stores right now is not easy. We did find a couple of pairs of jean shorts, but they needed major alterations—taking in the waist by a full two inches and still leaving ease.

And honestly, that’s the moment where sewing just wins.

When you can make clothes that actually match your proportions, your style, and your lifestyle—it changes everything.

Pattern Planning Strategy (This Matters!)

One thing that’s really guiding my choices here is sticking with pattern companies that already fit well.

For my daughter, Closet Core Patterns are basically a perfect match right out of the envelope. I don’t have to adjust the rise, the waist, or the hips—just shorten the length since she’s 5’2”.

That’s a huge win and such a reminder that finding your TNT (tried-and-true) pattern companies makes sewing so much more enjoyable.

1. Closet Core Pietra Shorts (Casual Everyday Pair)

This is a repeat make for her because they just work.

• Flat front, elastic back
• Super flattering on an hourglass shape
• Easy to dress up or down

I’ll be adding an invisible side zipper again to help with that waist-to-hip ratio. It makes a big difference in getting that clean fit without struggling to pull them on.

Fabric: Smoky blue linen (a soft neutral in her palette)

These will be her go-to everyday shorts—perfect for weekends and heading back to school in the fall when it’s still warm.

2. Closet Core Crew Claire Shorts (Work-Appropriate Pair)

These are for her summer job, and they need to meet a pretty specific dress code—nothing more than 3 inches above the knee.

So we’re going a little more practical here:

• Cargo-style shorts
• Functional pockets (very necessary for camp life!)
• Slightly longer length

We may adjust the length after summer so they can transition into a more casual pair later.

Fabric: Stone-colored cotton twill (durable and structured)

3. Mila Uni Savannah Shorts (Boho Vibe Pick)

This is a new-to-me pattern company, and I’m really excited to try it.

My daughter is leaning into a more bohemian style lately, and these checked all the boxes:

• High-waisted
• Waist detailing
• Slightly wider leg with a cuff

They feel a little more fashion-forward while still being wearable.

Fabric: Gray linen (leftover from a previous project—fingers crossed there’s enough!)

4. Cashmerette Everett Shorts* (My Everyday Linen Pair)

Now onto my shorts.

I made these last summer and wore them constantly, so it’s time for another pair.

What I love:

• Elastic waist all the way around (comfort win)
• Great pocket design
• Easy to customize length

I’ll be skipping the cuff again and going slightly shorter—it really makes a difference in how flattering they feel.

Fabric: Cream heavyweight linen

5. Pattern Emporium Just Peachy Shorts* (Polished Knit Option)

This one is a bit of an experiment, but I’m excited about it.

I’ve made these before in French terry and loved them as lounge shorts, but this time I want something that feels a little more put-together.

So I’m switching it up:

• Same comfy knit style
• Using ponte instead of French terry
• Aiming for a more polished look

Fabric: Neutral ponte knit

If these work out the way I’m hoping, I may even make a pair for my daughter, too.

A Few Real-Life Sewing Thoughts

This whole project is a mix of practical and fun, which is honestly my favorite kind of sewing.

We’re solving real wardrobe problems:

• Fit issues
• Dress code requirements
• Seasonal needs

But we’re also getting to play with style, experiment with new patterns, and build a wardrobe that actually feels like us.

And maybe most importantly—it’s a reminder that we don’t have to settle for what stores decide to give us.

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