Are cycling shorts the new jeans? Here are all the pairs loved by influencers and celebrities (whether they're exercising or not!)

Just a few short months ago, we wouldn’t have believed anyone who told us that we’d put our jeans in a drawer at the end of the week and not touch them – or even, really, think about them – again for at least eleven weeks.

But alas, here we are. Eleven weeks into lockdown and four new tracksuits later, without any intention to revisit the long-forgotten denim staple any time soon.

As the weather heats up, however, even the most enthusiastic, loyal tracksuit devotees have to admit that a cosy, often fleece-lined two-piece with cinched cuffs is a little claustrophobic. Instead, many of us are looking for a practical, comfortable alternative without having to revert back to the stiff rigidity of starchy denim jeans.

Welcome: the cycling short.

No longer reserved for Bradley Wiggins alone, the lycra item best known for forming the backbone of one of the world’s less-admired aesthetics has surprisingly shot to the top of the fashion world’s radar.

It all began a few seasons ago, when the likes of Chanel, Stella McCartney, Fendi, Miu Miu and Jacquemus sent models down their respective spring/summer 19 runways decked out in enough variations of the classic cycling short to rival just about any Tour de France wardrobe.

Naturally, then, it fell to the celebrity and influencer community to translate the controversial piece into real life. Do we need a matching sports bra? Is there a specific trainer to complete the #lewk?

The 13 types of self-isolation wardrobe as told by Princess Diana’s most iconic looks

You’ll no doubt be pleased to hear that the cycling references end at the shorts, and that they in fact become an entirely viable trouser alternative when paired with, well, anything you *wouldn’t* wear when riding on two wheels. Think heels, sandals, boots, belted jackets, oversized blazers… the bicycle short is actually the perfect base staple to elevate in all manner of ways depending on your personal style.

And who could forget Princess Diana‘s iconic bicycle shorts moments?

The perfect work-from-home style inspiration, a pair of thick socks and a slogan sweatshirt or oversized t-shirt is quite literally all you need for a(nother!) day spent working at the kitchen table.