There’s nothing wrong with loving a cheap thrill — we certainly do. But there is something to be said about saving up for that extra-special luxury item and treating yourself. After all, you deserve it.
With spring just around the corner, we polled the savviest shoppers we know — our co-workers — and posed one simple question to them: What investment item are you making the hero of your spring wardrobe? As always, we got responses for every style aesthetic: platform boots in sumptuous suede, gauzy mohair cardigans, diamond-accented flower studs, and a variety of It bags to punctuate every 'fit pic. Shop all 14 of our choice fashion finds in the slides to come.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
"I am admittedly late to join the cult of Larroudé, the It girl label founded by former Teen Vogue and Barneys fashion director Marina Larroudé, but ever since I got these platform booties, my go-to transitional silhouette in between winter and spring, I am the brand’s biggest fan. Don’t be fooled by the sky-high heel that looks like it could inspire a fear of heights — these are the most comfortable boots that I currently own, which would explain why I’ve been wearing them nonstop." —Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
Larroudé Dolly Boot In Black Suede, $, available at Larroudé
Sézane Gaspard Cardigan
“When I think of transitional spring dressing, I think layering, and I’ve been eyeing both of these versatile pieces for a long time. The Sézane Gaspard Cardigan can actually be worn with the buttons forward or backward. It’s relaxed without being oversized, and I can see myself wearing this over a tank, tee, or on its own as a top. I also love that the knit is slightly ribbed, which would make for a great texture to pair against a leather jacket like this amazing Sandro option I’ve been eyeing. I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect boxy, dark brown leather jacket (that isn’t a moto style!) for a longgg time and this one is a stunner.” —Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Strategist
Sandro Jude Lambskin Leather Jacket, $, available at Nordstrom
Sostter Rose Gold Metallic Leather Pocket Backpack
"Spring brings with it many things: rain, flowers, tax season, and, of course, weather that makes it near impossible to choose one outfit that works for the whole day (I see you, 30-degree mornings and 70-degree afternoons). And while shoulder bags have their place, when I have to pack multiple outfits for a single day — and in the interest of being able to stand up straight 30 years from now — I’ve been on the hunt for a stylish backpack for some time now. This one from Sostter is big enough to fit plenty of everyday essentials and stylish enough that I don’t feel like it’s screaming 'full of Trapper Keepers' to people who might see me wearing it." —Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Sostter Pewter Soft Metallic Leather Pocket Backpack, $, available at Wolf & Badger
Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
"I've spotted Coach's Pillow Tabby bag on the street more times than I can count, and I think it's finally time I got one to call my own. The size is perfect — not too big, not too small — and I can't picture a spring outfit that wouldn't be leveled up with this purse on my arm. Plus, the chic pale beige colorway feels so right for the warmer months." —Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 26, $, available at Coach
Jennifer Meyer Mini Daisy Diamond Center Earrings
"I have a total of 11 piercings across both my ears and have somewhat of an obsession with collecting as many tiny studs as possible. I own several pieces from Jennifer Meyer and count her as one of my favorite jewelry designers — her signature elevated, dainty aesthetic never fails. These whimsical yet utterly chic mini daisies (which also happen to be my favorite flower) are so perfect for the spring equinox, and I think I'm finally out of excuses for not splurging on them." —Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Jennifer Meyer Mini Daisy Diamond Center Earrin, $, available at Shopbop
The Jacket Maker Westa A-2 Black Leather Bomber Jacket
"A genuine leather bomber has been on my wish list for ages, but I’ve never quite found “the one”. As a shortie, most vintage options tend to overwhelm my frame, so instead of nailing that oversized, model-off-duty vibe, I end up looking more like a kid playing dress up. Meanwhile, brand-new leather jackets can be quite pricey — costing usually $500 and up.
"I was elated when I discovered The Jacket Maker, a direct-to-consumer brand selling genuine leather clothing and accessories at reasonable price points. This sheepskin bomber comes with a beautiful vintage-style finish, and it reminds me of all the oversized jackets I’ve had to pass over due to the fit, but in a more snug and modern cut. What’s even better is the fact that for an additional $50, the brand can create this jacket made-to-measure — all you need to do is submit your height and various measurements over email, and you receive a piece cut to fit your exact build. This is a great option for my fellow petite shoppers with narrower shoulders and shorter arms. There is also free worldwide shipping to sweeten the deal. This is a shoo-in for me in terms of spring fashion investments." —Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
The Jacket Maker Westa A-2 Leather Bomber Jacket, $, available at The Jacket Maker
Cozy Earth Modern Modal Polo Dress
"As soon as the weather starts getting even a tiny bit more pleasant, I’m ready to slip into a breezy cotton dress. Cozy Earth is a brand that has been winning our hearts with its ultra-soft line of sleepwear and bedding, and its modal clothing collection is also really hitting it out of the park for me. This polo dress is the type of polished yet utterly comfortable outfit that you can just slip into if you just can’t be bothered with thinking about what to wear. The lightweight and buttery soft modal fabric feels just as comfy as cuddling up in a pair of PJs, and the two side pockets are another thoughtful feature I love. I personally find the buttonless, V-neck polo collar helps elongate my neck, and give the dress just the right level of put-togetherness to pass as an office outfit." —Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Cozy Earth Modern Modal Polo Dress, $, available at Cozy Earth
Miu Miu Spirit Small Zip Leather Shoulder Bag
"Miu Miu and I have a complicated history. Whenever I decide to commit to a piece of clothing, shoe, or handbag from the brand, I'm met with the glaring SOLD OUT when I try to add it to cart. The same goes for this quilted shoulder bag. Sadly, the alabaster pink and aqua-green shade I originally wanted are out of stock. My friend suggested the cornflower blue shade, and I can say it's slowly growing on me, so who knows!" —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Miu Miu Spirit Small Zip Leather Shoulder Bag, $, available at Bergdorf Goodman
Maje Melance Geometric Cardigan
"Every season I peruse the new arrivals from Maje and dream of having the whole Parisian-chic collection in my wardrobe. I have a sweet spot for cardigans with prominent buttons, and this one stuck out to me for spring. Although the contrasting striped trim is my style, the print is definitely different from what I usually gravitate toward. However, something about the vibrant cobalt hue and eye-catching geometric print is drawing me in and is patiently sitting in my shopping cart for the final click." —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
"I have too many shoes to know what to do with, yet I’m always stuck with not having the perfect pair, especially during the spring when I don’t know if I should wear a bootie, sneaker, mule, or sandal. I realized the perfect day-to-night solution may then be a wedge or chunky clog heel. In my recent searches for those, I came across these Dolce Vita chunky platform heels and fell in love. I have a narrower foot and was also worried that this style would be too clunky, but a review on Dolce Vita’s website has sold me on them. Jamie H. wrote, “The suede is sturdy and the heel is not heavy. I have a narrow foot, and the width was not overwhelming.” Perfect! I think I’m gonna go with the Mushroom Suede since the color is classic and can match many spring outfits (but I also love the Natural Raffia option!)." —Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Dolce Vita Emol Heels in Mushroom Suede, $, available at Dolce Vita
Scarosso Leandra Blu Scamosciata Loafers
"A good loafer should never be underestimated, especially when it's hand-crafted by skilled Italian artisans. These masterpieces are perfect for spring office days and brunches alike with the low-key yet chic blue suede and statement tassels. " —Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Scarosso Leandra Blu Scamosciata Loafers, $, available at Scarosso
Fiorucci Angels Hoodie Black
"Spring means in-betweener weather, and my go-to in-betweener outfit is a sweatshirt with shorts, jeans, and maybe even a skirt if I’m feeling fine, fresh, and feminine. It’s pricey, but I feel like people underestimate the power of an expensive sweatshirt. I have a vast collection of hoodies, and I can’t wait to put this in my closet." —Alexandra Polk, Affiliate Lifestyle Writer
Fiorucci Angels Hoodie Black, $, available at Fiorucci
Sézane Colette Marinière
"I hate wearing T-shirts if I’m not going to the gym. My winter uniform is sweatshirts; my summer uniform is sundresses. This leaves me with little to wear in the in-between months, which, in Tennessee, can start in February and last till mid-May, when a switch flips and it's 100 degrees 'til mid-September. My only solution for in-between outfits is a Breton shirt, which tend to be just a little heavier than a tee but still have all the ease of a casual top. Some older tops from Uniqlo were a bit worse for the wear, so I went on an absolute tear trying every Breton-style top I could get my hands on. I finally settled on these, from an actual French store. Très chic. I don’t know if a $100 top falls in the “investment” category, but it does become an investment when you buy several of them…” —Marshall Bright, Affiliate Editor
Warmer weather means I finally agree to nighttime plans and find myself in need of a versatile bag that can easily go from work to cocktails. This mini bag by Mansur Gavriel is a great transitional piece because it’s both a crossbody bag and a clutch — just remove the straps and you’re good to go — which makes it a great investment piece." —Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
Mansur Gavriel Mini M Frame Bag, $, available at Mansur Gavriel
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
When it's time to exercise, throwing on a cute and comfortable outfit can make all the difference in having the confidence and motivation to have a successful workout. And while leggings may be many of our go-to athletic bottoms, now that warmer weather is rolling around, we’re turning to their cropped cousins: the biker short.
Bike shorts can be worn for any type of physical activity, whether you're actually biking or running or participating in yoga, spin, or HIIT classes. And like leggings, they're also socially acceptable to wear outside of working out, whether you're lounging around your home or strolling through your grocery store.
But no matter if you're wearing bike shorts as athleticwear or athleisurewear, there are plenty of styles in the market to pick from. Read ahead to find the best biker shorts (according to rave customer reviews).
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
A biker short with Adidas's trademark three stripes running down the sides? You can't get any more classic than that. These 93% organic cotton cycling shorts are both soft and stretchy. Happy customers — at least 142 of them — love the classic style and have praised its versatility. One customer left a review on the site, reading, “Great material! Fits perfect. Great for running errands, traveling, or chilling.”
Adidas Essentials 3-Stripes Bike Shorts, $, available at Adidas
Best High-Rise Bike Short
Girlfriend Collective Plum High-Rise Bike Short
Made from the same compressive, plastic-recycled material as Girlfriend Collective's all-time best-selling legging, these bike shorts — and their 11-inch waist rise and thigh-covering 8.5-inch inseam — are made to hold you in, no matter what kind of activity you're up against. They also have an impressive 5 out of 5 stars and
5,723 reviews on the brand's website. Many customers dubbed them their favorite bike shorts, and one wrote that they're spin class approved. They said, "Not only did it stay compressive the entire time but it was squat proof AND it stayed in place (no riding down and having to constantly readjust)."
Girlfriend Collective Plum High-Rise Bike Short, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
Best Bike Short For Yoga
Lululemon Align High-Rise Short With Pockets
Cut from the same cloth as Lululemon's world-famous, buttery-soft Nulu fabric, it's no surprise these newer Align bike shorts have a fanbase as rabid as their ankle-length counterpart. Specifically designed for yoga and low-impact workouts, they're the perfect go-to bike short. This style is available in 6-inch and 8-inch inseams. With
4.2 out of 5 stars and 56 reviews on the brand's site, happy customers have praised the quality (and the handy pockets). One customer also wrote, "Worth every single penny. I have like 7 pairs and wear them every day!"
Lululemon Align High-Rise 6" Short with Pockets, $, available at Lululemon
Best Sweat-Resistant Bike Short
Outdoor Voices TechSweat 6" Short
This updated Outdoor Voices short style uses
buttery-soft TechSweat fabric, which is cool to the touch. It was created for "high-sweat Recreation," meaning it can withstand sweat from anything from cardio to spin class to hot yoga. One customer wrote a stellar review, saying, "I got these bike shorts because I’ve started working out in a sauna style work out gym. They are a great material weight for getting really sweaty (130 degrees in the class) and hold in place pretty well." These shorts are also backed up by a 4.5 out of 5 star rating and 121 other reviews.
Outdoor Voices TechSweat 6" Short, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Best SPF Bike Short
FP Movement Good Karma Bike Shorts
Free People’s Good Karma bike shorts are back and better than ever. The Good Karma collection promises zero bulkiness, sleek fabric, and a barely there feel. Plus, even better, these shorts were built for sweaty workouts inside and outside, so they have built-in SPF 30 UV protection. From the style’s previous release, one customer left a review, reading, “Love these bike shorts! Perfect for working out, lounging around, and of course, for biking! Fits perfectly :)”
FP Movement Good Karma Bike Shorts, $, available at Free People
Best Bike Short With Pockets
Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Biker Shorts
We all love a good pocket moment. And these Old Navy bike shorts have very deep pockets. Other pros include the fabric’s light compression, smooth feel, breathability, four-way stretch, and moisture-wicking technology. Over 7,000 customers have left reviews and given these bike shorts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating. “These shorts are perfect for walking in the summer! Lightweight, just the right length, and POCKETS!!! Can't go wrong with these...and the COLORS really pop!“ one person commented.
Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Biker Shorts, $, available at Old Navy
Best Printed Bike Shorts
Beyond Yoga Flower Tile High-Waisted Biker Shorts
Want to make a fun fashion statement when working out? These Beyond Yoga bike shorts are the perfect option with its vibrant Flower Tile print. The print, thick waistband, and flattering cut look amazing on anyone. And in addition, these shorts are also really good for the environment. To help reduce waste, the durable shorts are created from recycled plastic bottles to form a comfortable polyester-spandex blend.
Beyond Yoga Flower Tile High-Waisted Biker Shorts, $, available at Anthropologie
Best Ribbed Waistband Bike Short
Vuori Rib Studio Short
Previously Vuori's most sold bike short, we have a few hunches surrounding its top-selling status: It has a comfy performance high waist and a ribbed waistband for smoothing, no-slip coverage. There also aren't any pesky side seams (which means it boasts a smooth, airbrushed hand feel all the way around the thigh). If you're not yet convinced, a 4.6 out of 5 star rating, 172 reviews, and one customer stating, "Perfect short for yoga or running. Nice fit and hug the stomach, creating an ultra-flattering fit," might do the trick.
Compression materials can promote oxygen flow, which helps with muscle performance, and adds extra comfort, especially for bikers who don’t want their shorts loosely sliding around. Skims’ new bike shorts offer similar compression to the brand’s already iconic, supportive, and sculpting shapewear. The warp knit compression material supports muscles and promotes blood flow. The firm support is prominent around the waistband and around the glutes, quads, and hamstrings.
Skims Performance High Waisted Bike Short, $, available at Skims
Best Non-Compressive Bike Shorts
Hanes Stretch Jersey Bike Shorts
Designed to wear everywhere from the gym to the grocery store to your couch, these Hanes cotton jersey bike shorts are ultra-comfortable and plenty stretchy. The style’s cotton-spandex blend allows for easy movement without restriction. On Amazon, these shorts have 4.4 out of 5 stars and 38,653 reviews from people who’ve complimented the stretchiness and who wear them to work out, lounge around in, and more. “So I hate wearing dresses and have my legs rub. These are perfect and are not tight around the legs. Perfect for sleeping in also,” one person wrote.
Hanes Stretch Jersey Bike Shorts, $, available at Amazon
Best Organic Cotton Bike Short
Pact Apparel Organic Cotton Ribbed Bike Short
Most of the bike shorts in this roundup are specifically made for sweaty workouts — but these, from sustainable lifestyle brand Pact, have found their way into the loungewear closets of many reviewers. A super-soft, stretchy ribbed texture made from 89% organic cotton? And sustainably made? Say no more. With 4.7 out of 5 stars and 61 reviews, and customers boasting over wearing the shorts as loungewear, PJs, and shapewear, these are great not-so-average bike shorts. One customer on the site commented, "The fabric holds its shape and the colors are perfect. I will be wearing these under my favorite dresses all summer long."
PACT Organic Cotton Ribbed Bike Short, $, available at PACT
Best Smoothing Bike Short
Parade Lightweight Bike Shorts
Parade may be your go-to for underwear, but the brand also has loungewear, athleticwear, and swimwear. The new lightweight bike shorts’ fabric offers a curve-hugging fit and a thick flattering waistband for a smoothing effect over your curves. The new upcycled cotton blend fabric is also very soft and breathable. “I love these. So soft against the skin and so comfortable,” one person left a positive review on the site, while another agreed, “Most comfortable fabric and look so cute."
Parade Lightweight Bike Shorts, $, available at Parade
Best Micro Bike Short
Athleta Sand Sprint Swim Short
Okay, maybe you don’t want to bike in these micro-shorts, but you can do every other workout, including water sports in them. The sun-protected and recycled fabric is smooth, sleek, and stretchy. Plus, the high-performance material is accompanied by side-seam drawstrings to adjust the length and tightness of the shorts around your thighs. With 391 positive reviews and 4.5 out of 5 stars, you can be confident in this micro bike short option. One customer wrote, “I wasn't sure how this purchase would turn out but I love these bottoms. They fit perfectly, are athletic to do water sports, and I feel comfortable without having to cover up. I like the side strings too.”
Athleta Sand Sprint Swim Short, $, available at Athleta
Best Bike Short for Going Commando
Alo Yoga7" High-Waist Biker Short
And if you’re one who prefers to go underwear-free under bike shorts, this Alo Yoga style is the one for you. These bike shorts are moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and front-smoothing for “commando comfort.” The sculpting Airbrush fabric also lifts and has 4-way stretch. 1,413 reviews and 4.4 out of 5 stars later, these bike shorts are a fan-favorite, especially in the ivory color, which many customers have been surprised by. One customer explained, “I was skeptical because white/ivory biker shorts, and leggings tend to be see-through.... Not these! These are thick, soft, and extremely durable.”
