It got very hot in New York. Accordingly, as one does when it’s 97 degrees, women started wearing less clothing. For some, this was a look that included shorts (often denim) on occasion so small that they showed the bottom parts of their, well, bottoms. At first, you wanted to walk up to these young women and whisper, “Excuse me, I think you might need to pull down your shorts” (as one might do for someone whose skirt has accidentally become hitched up by her handbag). But then, you realized this big reveal is on purpose. And this summer all the girls who rock an edgier look—from Rihanna to Cara Delevingne to Miley Cyrus—are wearing them.

So this is a real thing, not just a wardrobe malfunction. Can it, and should it, be interpreted into something less street, more chic? Yes, if you are shopping fall Marc Jacobs (did you order your fishnet embroidery hot pants from Moda yet?). With little shorts under sweaters and jackets, his girls looked pantsless. Not an appropriate everyday style for anyone who’s not a model or pop star. But pair some with opaque tights and wear them under one of his longer coats and you’re pulling it off.

Actually, Rihanna's stylist, Mell Ottenberg thinks the street version of what he calls the “I forgot to put my pants on, but who cares? It’s hot out” look could have had something to do with the tiny shorts  Nicolas Ghesquiere showed last Spring at Balenciaga. Though Ottenberg recognizes the difference between the denim, “more of a retro-sexy thing,” and the “more rigid” runway pieces.

On The Rise: Mini Circle Skirts to Wear from Summer to Fall

Short, tight and full of Lycra is always one way to go.
But mini circle skirts are undeniably on the rise, literally and figuratively.
Earlier this year, the longer version (sometimes referred to as a dirndl skirt) was being taken up by our favorite style-setters. Rather than tossing the idea out with the rest of their winter gear, they've merely started wearing shorter versions. And we'll bet that come fall the same skirts will be sported over tights and a variety of boots. Consider this next on your would-be shopping list for seasonless versatility.

High-low skirts, also known as mullet skirts, are skirts with a hem that is higher in the front, or side, than in the back. If you wear it you can look sexy at the front and you can look like a school girl from the back.

Here are four different ways to wear this:

Where to wear it: Window shopping

Why not look über-cool while lunching, brunching or simply strolling with friends. A breezy bright button-up is cool and comfortable, while the height of the skirt perfectly showcases another hot trend this season: gladiator sandals. Add a rad bag in a complementary colour and a little bling under your collar; you’re good to go.

Where to wear it: Market

Picking produce can be a stylish affair with the right outfit. Start with a tie-front shirt which will hit you at the hip and balance the proportion of the skirt. Then add practical-pretty extras: a straw fedora, chic flats, and a sizable tote to stash your fresh fruit and veggies while you browse the stalls; and catch the eye of that cute farmer’s son.

Where to wear it: Picnic

Soak-up a little vitamin D, with some leg and shoulder action. A simple midriff-skimming tank in a fun floral pattern will ensure you standout from the surrounding foliage, not blend in. Wooden wedges add a touch of drama, while tortoiseshell sunglasses are simply a sunny-day essential.

Where to wear it: Drinks with friends

Don’t be afraid to dress up the casual vibe of the skirt. The flowy, feminine length in the back is the perfect touch for an outstanding evening outfit. Lemon-yellow pumps and a bright cobalt clutch enhance this elegant, lacy tank with a contemporary punch. Whether you’re drinking, dining or dancing, this dynamite look will go the distance.