No matter what the hottest trends are from one summer to the next, there's at least one clothing item that will forever remain a staple in the sweltering season: a trusty pair of jean shorts. But let's be honest, denim rules year-round. It goes with practically everything and has become something of an unspoken neutral. So, then, why is it such a challenge to come up with new ways to wear jean shorts outfits every year? 

The dilemma is likely the result of one or two things, the first being that you associate jean shorts outfits with only a few very specific looks. Maybe, in your mind, jean shorts are exclusively casual and only make sense with tank tops and T-shirts. Though this is the quintessential summertime aesthetic, it's not the only one. 

The second is that you're making it more complicated than it has to be. Remember, there are no true fashion rules. You can wear what you want, whenever you want (assuming you don't have to abide by a dress code), with whatever you want, and jean shorts are no exception. So, as far as we're concerned, you can forget the notion that there are limited ways to style jean shorts outfits. Mix and match your favorite pair with whatever is in your closet — blazers, heels, and button-ups included.

If you need some inspiration, check out the nine ideas below for style tips on how to put together the perfect jean shorts outfit.

Add a Pop of Color

Personal stylist Christina Stein loves pairing blazers and blouses with jean shorts. Complete the look with heels for a look she promises is endlessly stylish. 

"The combination gives a casual but tailored vibe," she told InStyle via email. "Instead of a traditional color though (i.e. black or navy), go with a metallic or neon color [blazer] like pink or green! Instead of a traditional short, maybe try to update it with a girlfriend or Bermuda style."

With a Dressy Button-Down

According to MiKADO Personal Styling advisor Jordan Stolch, an oversized boyfriend button-down shirt is summer's must-have wardrobe essential and will pair perfectly with jean shorts. Her favorite styling technique? 

"Leave it open, layered over a basic tank or bodysuit, and top it off with simple sandals or tennis shoes," she recommended.

Elevate Your Typical T-Shirt Pairing

San Diego-based personal stylist and fashion blogger Vanessa Valiente loves a graphic tee and jean shorts combo as much as the next person. However, Valiente likes to keep things elevated. For starters, crop your graphic tee or sweatshirt and swap regular jean shorts for a cut-off style. Next, Valiente recommended grabbing a pair of chunky flat sandals or your favorite sneakers for a casual look, but she said if it's not too hot, a cropped leather jacket and a pair of combat boots are a great way to switch things up.

Try a Tailored Style 

Fashion stylist and style expert Naina Singla loves a sleek, minimalist moment and suggested you can achieve the aesthetic with a pair of jean shorts by adding a black button-down and black flat sandals into the mix. 

"If you are looking to add more texture to your look, simply bring along a raffia tote," Singla recommended via email. "This minimalist style is perfect for weekend errands or a casual lunch with friends."

Make It Formal

To dress up jean shorts for a dinner date or night out on the town with friends, celebrity stylist Madeleine Kennedy told InStyle she'll elevate the otherwise casual bottoms by pairing them with "a black blazer, corset, sling-back heels, a mini bag, and layered necklaces."

Swap Blue for White Denim

White is a classic summer hue, and you could incorporate the shade into a jean shorts outfit in myriad ways. Singla's preferred variation is via white high-rise denim shorts paired with a fitted blank tank, matching white slides, and a black mini handbag hanging off her wrist. 

It's a look she said is "simple yet sophisticated" that works for either a beachside brunch or relaxing dinner.

Balance with a Tailored Top

In summer, wardrobe stylist Gabbi Maragos is all about the mid-rise relaxed fit jean shorts, especially styles that are generous in length. An oversized poplin shirt or a simple ribbed tank top are great options for daytime wear, but if you're looking to dress up your jean shorts outfit, Maragos favors something a little more tailored, like a cropped vest.

Bet on a Blazer

For a more sophisticated look, Singla promises you can never go wrong with a blazer (a black number is her favorite) — even when pairing the jacket with jean shorts. To complete the jean shorts outfit, Singla suggested something along the lines of a white knit top and black ballet flats for footwear. To add an element of polish, a statement belt and a black structured handbag are musts. 

Lean Into the Linen Trend

"Elegant" may not be the first adjective you think of when describing a pair of cut-off shorts, but Valiente said combining the lax bottoms with a linen blend scoop neck tank and a matching linen blend blazer will do the trick. 

"Tuck in that tank and pair it with a strappy flat or chunk-heel sandal," Valiente advised. "I often sport this outfit using light wash cut-off shorts, an off-white tank, and a blazer, plus off-white sandals for a casual chic monochromatic look."