The Best Crop of Summer

By Kate Betts

As temperatures start to soar, fashionistas are turning to cropped shorts as a cool way to survive the season. Worn with snug jackets or sweatshirts, flats or heels, shorts are an accessible alternative to the ubiquitous--and sometimes sloppy-looking--peasant skirt. Tommy Hilfiger gives his a decidedly dressed-down feeling, pairing them with striped blazers, flat sandals and silk-ribbon belts, right. Meanwhile, Kenneth Cole goes for a more tailored look, inset. Dressed up or down, shorts can move from the workplace to the weekend without too much hassle.