Cool Girl Approved Running Short Outfits To Copy
Running shorts, track shorts, adidas shorts- whatever we’re calling this style, they don’t have to be relegated to just workout outfits! Why not get more mileage out of them (pun intended) and style them with your everyday closet staples?
Well, that’s what all the cool girls are doing this season, and sorry not sorry I intend to copy them because, how cute?! Whenever a trend is comfy and casual - I’m usually first in line to try it out, so styled up running shorts 🤝 me.
So if you’re like me and really feeling this trend, I came up with some outfit ideas to get you inspired to dress your athletic shorts up.
Here are the outfits:
Running Shorts with a White Tee and Flip Flops
Running shorts and a plain white tee might be the easiest thing you throw on all summer. The little fish pendant necklace and the aviators are what make it feel like you actually thought about it.
RELATED: Not-So-Plain White Tee Outfit Ideas
I would wear this for coffee runs, the farmers market, basically any low key Saturday. The flip flops make it feel a little like vacation even when you're just running errands around town.
Track Shorts with a Matching Tank and Zip Up Hoodie
This is the outfit for when it's warm but you still want a little something on top. A fitted matching workout top with track shorts gives me sporty prep in the best way.
The silver ballet sneaker flats and matching bag are doing something fun here, kind of fun with the athletic pieces. Throw the hoodie on when it cools down and you're good for the whole day.
Gym Shorts with a Workout Top and Running Sneakers
Sometimes running shorts just need to be running shorts, you know? This is my actual go to for a workout class or a long walk when I want to feel cute but still move.
RELATED: 10 Cute Gym Outfits To Make You Excited to Work Out
The open back top layered over a little crop is comfy and breathable for sweating it out. I love a gym bag with a bow detail because even my workout fit gets a personality.
Running Shorts with a Denim Shirt and Sneakers
Red shorts and an oversized denim shirt feels like the most fun version of an easy summer outfit. I'm obsessed with the cow print sneakers thrown in here because they make the whole thing feel playful.
RELATED: How to Wear a Denim Shirt and Look Trendy in 2026
This is perfect for a casual weekend, a backyard hang, or running around town on a warm day. The rainbow beaded necklace and the cap add that bit of color that reads young and easy.
Track Shorts with a Linen Button Down and Sneakers
Green track shorts with a crisp linen shirt left open is what I'd reach for when I want to look cute but it's a thousand degrees out. The button down does double duty as a layer and a little sun cover.
RELATED: Classic Yet On-Trend Ways To Style a Button Down Shirt
Sneakers and a baseball cap make the whole thing feel sporty and easy to move in. It's a great formula for travel days or a long afternoon of wandering around when comfort actually matters.
Adidas Shorts with a White Button Down and Mary Jane Flats
The pinstripe shorts give this one a sporty preppy feel that I am fully on board with. A white button down tucked in a little makes athletic shorts read way more intentional.
RELATED: 13 Stylish AF Mary Jane Shoes Outfits
Those red mary janes are the moment, they pull everything together and add a pop without being loud. I'd wear this to brunch or a casual lunch date where I still want to look like I have it together.
Running Shorts with a Tank Top and Ballet Sneakers
Something about a plain white tank with deep burgundy shorts feels cool and a little bit grungy. The silver sneakers and the red polka dot claw clip are the kind of small details that make people ask where you got everything.
RELATED: Ballet Sneakers: How to Style the New It Girl Shoe Trend
I love how easy this is to recreate with stuff you probably already own. It's a weekend errands outfit that somehow looks way cooler than it has any right to.
Track Shorts with a Blazer and Heels
Hear me out, a blazer with running shorts actually works and it's so good. The structured navy blazer takes the casual shorts somewhere a little more grown up without feeling stuffy.
RELATED: 23 Chic Blazer Outfits for Women Trending for 2026
The strappy heels and the clutch lean it fully into dinner or drinks territory. This is how I'd style shorts for a summer night out when I still want my legs to breathe.
Running Shorts with a Varsity Sweatshirt and Sneakers
Pink shorts and a cozy varsity sweatshirt is peak comfy girl energy and I'm here for it. This is what I throw on for a morning walk, a coffee run, or honestly just lounging.
The pink sneakers tie back to the shorts so the whole thing feels thought out even though it took zero effort. A leopard cap on a no makeup day is my favorite little trick.
Adidas Shorts with a Graphic Tee and Flip Flops
This one gives me main character on a European vacation. A fun graphic tee with sporty shorts and a straw tote is the easiest warm weather formula I can think of.
RELATED: How to Style Graphic Tees Like It's 2026
The flip flops and the colorful necklace bring a light, beachy feel. I'd live in this for travel days or a slow summer afternoon by the water.
Track Shorts with a Bikini and a Button Down
Throwing track shorts over a bikini is one of my favorite easy poolside moves. The button down and the bucket hat make it actually wearable for grabbing lunch or walking around after.
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The woven mules give it a little extra something once the swimsuit is off duty. This is the kind of outfit that takes you from the sand to a casual dinner without changing much.
Running Shorts with a Rugby Shirt and Sneakers
A striped long sleeve polo with athletic shorts is giving cute sporty in a way that feels a little retro. I love the pink and navy together, it's soft but still has some personality.
RELATED: Sporty Chic Rugby Shirt Outfit Ideas The Cool Girls Are Wearing
The pink mary jane sneakers and the tan bag make it feel put together enough to wear out and about. This is a great pick for those in between days when it's warm but the breeze has a bite to it.
As you can see, running shorts don’t just have to be for running! Style them up with your button downs, blazers, cute tops, ballet flats, and anything else that can make them feel a little more elevated. It’s fun and gives your style that little bit of edge you might just be missing.
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