Shorts are the ultimate easy-to-wear summer dressing, but most women avoid them unless they're holidaying in some obscure location and are confident that they won't be bumping into anyone they know.

However, this season, shorts are making a comeback not only on the beach, but in the boardroom too. They've got the nod from the likes of Chloé, Dolce & Gabbana and Hermès, who all prove that shorts can be elegantly tailored, oversized, casual and super-smart too.

Linen, leather (yes, leather!), prints and nude shades can all be easily found on the high street and in designers' collections. It's how you wear them that makes the real difference between, say, confidently exposing a baggy knee and chunky calf and hiding behind a full-length maxi skirt.

For starters, if you don't like your legs being on show, super-high wedges will be your best friend throughout the summer, especially with a pair of shorts. Team with any style to immediately lengthen the leg, but beware of ankle straps that will cut your leg in half and shorten its appearance.

Find a style that suits both your lifestyle and your figure. Bermuda-esque designs are great for hiding heavy thighs and taking you from office to party.

Slim-line and tailored design pieces look sophisticated and grown-up, especially in warm shades of brown and grey. Meanwhile, shorter mini styles, more aptly seen on the global festival scene (think denim cut-offs) are best left to the under-20s. You need slim, cellulite-free pins and bags of confidence to pull off this look. Instead choose wide and comfy styles that can be dressed up with a jacket or a romantic chiffon blouse that adds an air of softness to your silhouette. Look for pockets, belts and buttons that add interest to your look and team with a slim belt to finish off a smart look.

In a word, simply accept that shorts are not going away this season, and exposing those sun-starved legs will be unavoidable. Just don't forget the fake tan!