Trend Breakdown: Are Hot Pants Hot … Or Not?

It’s official. Hot pants are coming in hot and taking over the world of fashion as we know it. 

That’s right- these micro mini short shorts are having their moment again after first rising to fame in the ’60s and ‘70s. Recently, models have been spotted rocking this trend on designer runways, while fashion risk-takers are donning hot pants as this season’s go-to date night look.

I’m breaking down the budding fashion statement and where to shop 2024’s hot pants trend if you’re looking for a fun way to elevate your signature style.  

Trend History

Hot pants are another term for short shorts. Allegedly thought to have risen to popularity in the late 1960s and early 1970s around the time that the term was reportedly coined, hot pants soon became a growing trend for women who wanted a shorter take on a classic silhouette. Hot pants have now sparked a fashion resurgence in 2024 with people taking the trend to new heights and pairing them with oversized blazers or chunky knits, thereby offering a more modern and sophisticated way to wear the look today. Celebrities such as Olivia Culpo, Hailey Bieber, and Olivia Wilde have also been spotted out and about sporting hot pants, putting their own unique spin on how to wear the rising trend.

So, are hot pants hot or not? 

Truthfully, the answer is entirely based on personal opinion because it’s a very polarizing trend that could go one of either ways- you either simply love it or hate it. Hot pants are a bold fashion statement that involves showing off a lot of leg with a little fabric so if you’re into that, this versatile trend may be for you! Not only is this trend perfect for festival season or warmer months ahead, but there are also ways to make this trend slightly more modest, such as pairing hot pants with tights, socks, or oversized coats. However, the truth of the matter is that hot pants will continue to lean more on the risqué side when it comes to bottoms so it’s up to you on how you opt to integrate them into your wardrobe- should you choose to. 

Check out some trending hot pants styles- and hot tips on how to wear them- below if you’re willing to step out of your fashion comfort zone to give them a try.

Revolve Denim Hot Pants by FIORUCCI

These denim hot pants by FIORUCCI feature a more casual take on the fashion trend and are available on Revolve. They’re made from 100% cotton and offer a cheeky fit as well as a 5-pocket design which makes these the ultimate spring/summer staple for a more daring look. 

PrettyLittleThing Red Woven Hot Pants

If you prefer a low-rise fit, these affordable red-hot woven hot pants from PrettyLittleThing will definitely bring the heat to any outfit. Since they are crafted as part of the brand’s “PLT Shape” line, they offer a more figure and curve-enhancing silhouette, overall. 

HOT TIP: Red is also really in right now so these are a definite add-to-cart if you’re looking to add a pop of color to your wardrobe.

Revolve Star Bright Hot Pants by Zhivago

These Star Bright Hot Pants by Zhivago are available on Revolve and make the perfect addition to your spring/summer closet. Not only do they come in a fun metallic stretch colorway and fabric but the contrast in detailing makes these the ultimate bottoms for a night out on the town. 

HOT TIP: Try pairing them with a neutral knit or blazer to really make the hot pants stand out.

FWRD The Andamane Polly Hot Pant Short

You can’t go wrong with adding a classic pair of black hot pants to your wardrobe if you want to try the growing fashion trend. This pair of hot pants from FWRD offers a fitted silhouette and effortlessly pairs with your fave moto jacket and matching black tights for a more edgy look. 

PrettyLittleThing Olive Textured Hot Pants

Try bringing a little texture to the trend with these affordable hot pants from PrettyLittleThing. Since the woven material gives these pants a more elevated look, they can be paired with the matching corset top for the ideal monochromatic date night or girl’s night look. They’re also part of the brand’s “PLT Shape” line.

Urban Outfitters Silence + Noise Sabrina Metallic Micro Short

Metallic hot pants are the ultimate spring/summer go-to for festival season which is why this pair of micro shorts from Urban Outfitters is a must-have. The low-rise fitted shape and chrome finish truly make these a show-stopping trendy staple. 

HOT TIP: Pair these hot pants with your fave denim jacket and cowboy boots for a more contemporary take on the Western-inspired trend. —Samantha Vecchairelli