Fashion

Harry Styles and Hailey Bieber agree – retro running shorts are this summer's biggest style hit

They're short, sweet and made for more than just running: here's how to style them for warm weather

By Tatiana OjeaTranslated and Adapted by Dino Bonačić

18 May 2026

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Though Harry Styles didn't invent the idea of dressing up retro running shorts, he's definitely helping in making the sporty style become the hottest summer shorts trend for 2026. In his recent music video for Dance No More, our favourite pop star style icon wore a full custom look from Marc Jacobs that included a hoodie, an oversized tie, a white blazer and the pièce de résistance – a pair of micro shorts in fiery red with contrast piping.

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The look was the ultimate sporty-meets-formal combo that has been taking over street style moments during fashion week in recent seasons. As the second in command on this evolving trend, Hailey Bieber claimed her own take. In a romantic snap shared by her husband Justin Bieber, Rhode founder embracing the trend that will dethrone jorts this spring/summer: sporty retro running shorts with a vintage twist. The photo shows Hailey wearing a gray zip hoodie and navy blue shorts with a white trim, just like the ones worn in the 1980s. With all due respect to lace shorts, nonchalant track shorts are already the most coveted shorts of the moment.

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Accustomed as we are to seeing them in their natural habitats, like the running track or the gym, fashion it-girls are styling track shorts with unexpected new combinations. Anne-Laure Mais, the founder of Musier and one of the coolest girls in Paris, confirms this on Instagram. In her case, she follows Harry's method and wears a red pair, combining it with a matching T-shirt, heeled ballet flats, an east-west bag, and a light-coloured sweatshirt tied around her waist.

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These shorts will be a great everyday staple thanks to their comfort. However, you shouldn't just wear them with workout gear. Instead, pair them with linen shirts for a look that's both relaxed and comfortable. Ballet flats, loafers, Mary Janes, and yes, even heels, are perfect for refreshing this athleisure trend.