Jessica Alba Managed to Make Dad Pants Sexy With an Itty-Bitty Top

Love it or hate it, but dad fashion is so in. Everything from oversized boxy T-shirts to chunky sneakers are trending, giving micro mini skirts and Y2K sequin dresses a run for their money (sorry, Elle Woods). Another grandpa-approved separate that’s taking center stage? Dad shorts—and Jessica Alba just showed us the sexiest way to wear them.

Strolling around New York City, Alba wore a coordinating gray set complete with an oversized blazer and high-waisted bermuda shorts. The baggy bottoms were folded at the hem and leaned into the wide-leg look Katie Holmes and Anne Hathaway wear on repeat.

Topshop Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts

Levi’s Ribcage Bermuda Shorts

The actress isn’t alone in her unexpected love of “ugly” shorts. Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid might as well be the poster children for the style, relying on the loose pants as soon as the weather spikes. I get it; the billowy bottoms allow for peak airflow, keeping you cool all summer long. Who wants to wear tight clothes when you’re feeling sticky and hot, anyway?

If you’re on the hunt for a suit-like version, then the J.Crew trouser shorts are for you, though there are tons of variations available. Levi’s offers a casual denim pair ideal for wearing with comfy sneakers and simple tees, while Topshop has a linen alternative that pairs beautifully with crochet tops and flats.

However, the key to wearing baggy pants is curating a perfectly balanced ensemble—and Alba did just that. She sexified the bottoms with a super tiny crop top that hit well above her belly button, creating a chic and sophisticated ‘fit. Pointed-toe stilettos, large sunglasses, and prominent gold drop earrings completed the look.

Dad shorts can be a tough style to get behind, but I have a feeling you’ll end up liking them more than you’d think—especially because they offer a modest alternative to daisy dukes. So, take Alba’s advice and shop dad shorts in a range of materials, below.

Get the Look:

J.Crew High-Rise City Twill Trouser Short
Shop now: $77 (Originally $128); jcrew.com

Levi’s Baggy Dad Shorts
Shop now: $70; nordstrom.com

Madewell Pleated Ponte Shorts
Shop now: $55; madewell.com

Spanx the Perfect Trouser Shorts
Shop now: $128; spanx.com

Mother Down-Low Undercover Cut-Off Denim Shorts
Shop now: $228; nordstrom.com

Agolde Ellis Denim Trouser Shorts
Shop now: $208; nordstrom.com

Favorite Daughter the Low Favorite Bermuda Shorts
Shop now: $178; nordstrom.com

Lee Ultra-Lux Utility Bermuda Shorts
Shop now: $37; amazon.com

Tarse High-Waisted Bermuda Shorts
Shop now: $20; amazon.com

Wayf Carlotta Pleated Shorts
Shop now: $75; nordstrom.com

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qrrSrbClnV6YvK57y6impGWfm3q1tMRmm5qxXWd9c4CMaW1maGdihXeCj2trbQ%3D%3D