As winter rolls back and spring creeps into view, it is time to get those legs in shape and ready to show off, preparing for the latest seasonal must-have in women's designer fashion: shorts. This versatile garment now often marks the coming of the sunshine months better than a calendar but due to their flirtatious and flaunting nature, they only became a mildly acceptable item of attire in women's fashion around the 1930s. Nowadays they have happily become the mainstay of many a spring and summer wardrobe in a range of colours and styles that can be dressed up or down in a variety of modes. Let's be honest, most women wouldn't embark on a holiday abroad without at least one pair tucked neatly away in their suitcase and even when the weather disappoints us; teamed with a pair of tights, your shorts will surely not. The classic short has to be the 'Daisy Duke', named after the 1970s TV show 'The Dukes of Hazard' where cut-offs were first flaunted on screen by one of the characters. For the longer-limbed cut-offs are still a popular choice of short, although the original 'cut-off' edges have been widely replaced this season by neater edges and turn-ups, that, while they maintain the shape, create a smarter finish. G-Star, Levi and 7 for all mankind have produced smart, tailored cut-offs this season. It's not just in denim that Daisy Dukes are being produced; thanks to the creations of Tibi, Diane von Furstenberg and Thread Social, shorts can be found in an array 70s revived and reinvented styles including leather, suede and cord. Or add a touch of the glamorous with lace, jacquard and sequins. The cut-off shorts are not only transcending day-time to night, with Sessun's latest feature of a lavish pair of gold mustard shorts, this item will easily spill over into winter when teamed with tights and heavy knitwear. Leather brings a rawer edge to the short with Alice by Temperley, IRO and Theory. Other fabrics making an appearance include light and breezy silks and linen from Miu Miu for a truly summery short. Or for a longer, smarter short look to YMC (You Must Create) who have produced a stunning pair of culottes in black and white check that looks set to be another fashion favourite this spring.

Transform your shorts by combining them with everyday-wear tees, slightly-warmer knits or smarter silk blouses and accessorise with loose ties at the waist, beads and belts. It doesn't matter if you opt for tights or brave bare legs, this spring is about showing off those legs and strutting your stuff!