The bottom line: Shorts are too short

A popular '50s rock 'n' roll song asked, "Who wears short shorts?"

The answer today? A lot of people who shouldn't. And stores everywhere are accessories to that fashion crime.

I've heard women young and old complain that the only shorts they can find are nearly obscene: tight and tiny and leaving almost nothing to the imagination.

While it's true that there are a ridiculous number of scandalously short shorts on store shelves, that doesn't mean you have to buy them! There are flattering options.

To prove it, I went strolling with photographer Abel Uribe on a warm day to find an array of shorts gone wrong. [SEE PHOTOS HERE] Then I went shopping to find better alternatives that work on a wide array of sizes and shapes. The bottom line? To avoid these fashion felonies, before you leave the house, check a rear-view mirror.

shopellen@tribune.com

Short cuts

•Tight and skimpy often are the opposite of sexy.

•When in doubt, chose longer, looser.

•Big prints on big bottoms? Don't do it.

•A mirror check is a must before leaving home.