In the thick of the summer heat, sometimes putting together an interesting outfit can be a predicament. To keep cool, we often fall back on our “summer basics” — shorts and tank tops. When focusing on the weather, it can be easy to get caught up with practicality, which may result in a fairly drab outfit. The most common way to add to this basic combination is to pair simple shorts with an embellished or patterned top, but now it’s time to try it in reverse. Patterned shorts can be a fresh new way to create an appealing outfit despite the heat.

This Fashionista pairs her patterned shorts with a basic black tube top. This combination creates an interesting, yet classic look. The simplicity of her top nicely complements the abstract pattern of her shorts. She continues to keep it simple up top by choosing to not wear a necklace or earrings. Instead she wears a leather cuff and two gold statement rings.

She also embraces the tribal trend that was featured heavily on the runways by wearing shorts with an ancestral-inspired pattern. Similarly inspired pieces can be found in the shows of Missoni and BCBG Max Azria. In many cases, tribal-inspired patterns are colorful, but by choosing black and white shorts she is able to take advantage of this theme without going too crazy. Going for a piece with more neutral colors can be a great way to ease yourself into wearing loud patterns if you are feeling nervous.

There are many other types of prints to choose from — like these woven floral shorts from Urban Outfitters or these striped shorts from Gap. To stick with the tribal theme, look for colorful abstract patterns like these shorts from BellJar and Alice + Olivia. For the black and white combo presented by this week’s Fashionista try these shorts from Nasty Gal.

To refresh your summer wardrobe, try taking advantage of any printed or patterned short that suits you!