Would You Wear Shorts To Cocktail Hour?

When shorts started hanging out past 7pm, I had doubts. But then celebs embraced the look by wearing them to clubs and parties, and suddenly every third woman at dinner was sporting shorts with a cami or jacket. It then dawned on me that this is an ingenious and superbly comfortable departure from your cocktail dress routine. So long as they're actually shorts, not hot pants with tights (or, the horror, without tights).

Here are three of our favorites - click here for five more acceptable options.

1. The A-line shape of these See By Chloe High-Waist Shorts ($345) are flattering and the gold, metallic pattern looks great with tights or tan spring legs.

2. These Trina Turk Camden Bow Shorts ($188) are understated, yet still dressy enough to wear to dinner.

3. I like the J. Crew Chino 9" Shorts ($42) since they're simple, comfortable, and come in nine different spring colors.