We like to think of shorts as that happy medium between pants and skirts, a versatile warm-weather essential that we wouldn’t want to be without. Even casual shorts can look impressively put together when done right.

Here are just some of our current picks:

1. Trina Turk Aero shorts: The refined pleating and chic khaki color give these shorts such a tailored feel.

2. Lilly Pulitzer Callahan shorts: Pair these pristine navy shorts with your nautical-inspired tops this summer!

3. Brigitte Bailey Nikki pleated shorts: This high-waisted number is sassy enough for a night out on the town.

4. Calvin Klein Jeans linen Bermuda shorts: Quite possibly the perfect vacation shorts.

5. Juicy Couture Bedford sailor shorts: The brass sailor-inspired buttons add a simple yet noteworthy touch to these shorts.

Originally started as a handbag company, B. Makowsky has crossed over into the world of footwear, and their current collection for Fall 2011 really hits all the right notes.

From menswear-inspired, to animal prints, to kitten heels, their new styles for fall are impeccably on point. (Top to bottom)

Honour loafer pumps: This smart and abundantly stylish heel is perfect for both professional and after-hours settings.

Norma pumps in Beige Leopard Pony: We’re mad about leopard prints, and when done atop a feminine kitten heel, it adds up to one playfully posh shoe.

Dallas flats: The impressive uptown style lends such a chic versatility to these flats.

Dabney flats: Pointed toes are coming back in a big way, and these flats have the makings of a go-to shoe for tons of occasions.

Gemma loafers: These add such an on-trend, tailored feel to everything from shorts to skinny cropped trousers. A great combo of classic dapper and modern.

Lucky Brand Laguna Madras Plaid Cami, 7 For All Mankind The Skinny Bermuda shorts, Calvin Klein Blaire wedges, Fossil Liberty Hobo, Lucky Brand BFF Summer Floral Necklace, Fossil Watch 

In the midst of the extra-hot summer temps most of us are experiencing as of late, we thought it would be fitting to feature an outfit that embodies an All-American summer.

Our stylists have put together this particular summer ensemble with easy, laid-back style in mind. From the lightweight plaid cami, to the comfy Bermuda shorts, to the neutral wedges, this outfit is as American as apple pie.

To shop more outfits hand-picked by our stylists, check out the Shop by Personality page on Zappos.com. We’ve made it easy for you to shop by different style personalities, even if you’re known to change up your style from day to day!

With all the fabulous styles we got to see at our recent trip to NYC, there were a few stand-out pieces that really resonated with us. All the more reason why we’re so excited for this upcoming fall season and all the amazing clothing that’s coming out.

Keep an eye out for these and all the other exciting fall 2011 trends on Zappos.com!

Today’s modern woman is often faced with the same type of dilemma: How to pick outfits that go the distance in her hectic, activity-filled day. Thank goodness for XCVI! Their clothing is designed to be completely livable, wearable, and of course, effortlessly stylish—no matter what life throws your way.

Check out the “XCVI Alibi” video featuring their fabulous fall lineup.

If you’re looking to incorporate animal print into your ensemble, we’d urge you to take a closer look at snake prints as a more subtle and classic option. The resurgence in popularity of snake prints has been a welcome change of pace from all the leopard print we’ve been seeing everywhere as of late.

When done in small doses, snake print can really add an impactful yet subtle dose of luxury to any ensemble.

Here are just some of our top picks for sophisticated snake prints:

1. Steve Madden Kloudd wedges: Done atop a fabulous espadrille wedge, the neutral snake print really adds a new dimension to these sandals.

2. Calvin Klein snake print belt: For a small dose of snake print, cinch in a tunic or dress with this slim belt.

3. Cole Haan Chrystie St. Ava shoulder bag: This oozes Park Avenue sophistication while still having a little bit of edge.

4. MICHAEL Michael Kors fitted seamed dress: This sleek, sexy dress is punctuated with allover snake print for a look that’s seductive yet chic.

5. GUESS snake print watch: Add some serious glam even to your casual ensembles with this lively watch.

6. Rockport Faye ballet flats: Who says comfy shoes have to be boring? These lush flats are quite the contrary.

Walk on the wild side with AK Anne Klein.

(From top left:) AK Anne Klein Wystere pumps, AK Anne Klein Hers pointed-toe pumps, AK Anne Klein Grefty moc flats, AK Anne Klein Bambam flats, AK Anne Klein Shevanie wedges

When it comes to sophisticated, work-appropriate shoes, AK Anne Klein has definitely set the bar high. However, infusing a bit of style into our work and dress wardrobe is still high on the agenda. With this in mind, AK Anne Klein added a healthy dose of animal prints and textures into this season’s newest crop of heels and flats. We love the fabulous array of leopard, snake and croc details on their latest easy-to-wear styles.

Platforms have long been a source of accolades when it comes to sexy, runway-worthy style. So when we feasted our eyes on these amazing Giuseppe Zanotti studded platform sandals, we were reminded of how they strutted down the runway during the last Victoria’s Secret fashion show.

The stunning sky-high platform and edgy stud details elevate this sandal into something utterly spectacular. In our opinion, it looks just as breathtaking worn with a little black dress as it does when worn down a runway clad in lingerie.

Work it!