Antonio Melani Shorts

Elevating Your Wardrobe with Premium Women’s Shorts That Stand the Test of Time

As I sit here typing this, I’m actually wearing my favorite pair of Antonio Melani shorts—a stunning cobalt blue pair that I purchased three summers ago and still reach for constantly. I’ve spent years curating my wardrobe, and I can honestly say that Antonio Melani shorts have become the cornerstone of my warm-weather style arsenal. After receiving countless messages asking about my outfit details on Instagram, I realized it was time to create the comprehensive guide I wish I’d had when starting my Antonio Melani collection.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering this incredible brand, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding, styling, and caring for these wardrobe essentials. I’ve personally tested dozens of pairs over the years, spoken with store associates, and compiled feedback from my reader community to bring you this detailed resource. Let’s dive in!

The Antonio Melani Brand: A Brief Introduction

Before we get into the specifics of their shorts, let me share a bit about why I’ve become such a devoted fan of Antonio Melani. This premium women’s clothing line is exclusive to Dillard’s department stores and has built a reputation for sophisticated, well-made pieces that blend classic silhouettes with modern details.

What initially drew me to the brand was their commitment to quality fabrics and thoughtful construction. Unlike fast fashion options that fall apart after a few wears, my Antonio Melani pieces have impressive longevity. The shorts, in particular, maintain their shape, color, and overall integrity season after season—something I’ve found increasingly rare in today’s fashion landscape.

The brand tends to appeal to professional women who appreciate polished casual wear and versatile pieces that can transition from office to weekend. While the price point is higher than some mall brands, the cost-per-wear value makes them a smart investment for your wardrobe. I’ve found that having fewer, better quality pieces actually saves money in the long run compared to constantly replacing cheaper alternatives.

Popular Antonio Melani Shorts Styles

Over my years of collecting and wearing Antonio Melani shorts, I’ve noticed several standout styles that consistently appear in their seasonal collections. Let me walk you through my favorites:

The Classic Tailored Short

These structured shorts typically feature a 5-inch inseam, flat front, and clean lines. They often include thoughtful details like belt loops, functional pockets, and a hidden side zipper. The tailored silhouette makes them appropriate for casual Friday at the office when paired with a crisp button-down or fine-gauge sweater.

I purchased my first pair in basic black five years ago, and they still look nearly new despite regular wear. For versatility, you can’t beat this classic style—I recommend starting your collection here if you’re new to the brand.

The Linen Blend Resort Short

Perfect for vacations and weekend brunches, these relaxed shorts offer breathability with a touch of polish. The linen blend provides the airy feel of pure linen but with less wrinkling (a game-changer for travel). They typically feature a slightly longer inseam (around 7 inches) and a comfortable elastic back waistband.

I pack these for every warm-weather getaway. The earthy color palette they come in—think olive green, warm terra cotta, and natural beige—pairs beautifully with simple tees and sandals for an effortless summer look.

The Statement Print Short

When I want to add personality to a basic top, I reach for Antonio Melani’s patterned shorts. From subtle pinstripes to bold florals, these shorts inject fun into any outfit while maintaining the brand’s signature sophistication.

What sets these apart from other printed shorts I’ve tried is the quality of the patterns—they don’t look cheap or fadey, even after multiple washes. I particularly love their seasonal tropical prints, which somehow manage to be both on-trend and timeless.

The Dressy Scalloped Short

For occasions requiring a dressier short option, the scalloped hem shorts are my go-to. The feminine detail elevates the look while the tailored construction keeps them sophisticated rather than cutesy.

I have these in white and get compliments every time I wear them. They pair beautifully with silk blouses for summer parties or dressy tops for upscale vacation dinners. The construction detail at the hem makes them look significantly more expensive than they are.

The Summer Weight Suiting Short

When the temperature rises but professional dress is still required, Antonio Melani’s suiting shorts are my savior. Made from the same premium fabrics as their suit collections, these shorts offer breathability without sacrificing polish.

I’ve worn these for important summer meetings paired with their matching blazers. The slightly longer inseam (usually 7-9 inches) makes them office-appropriate, while the lightweight fabric keeps me comfortable in warm weather.

Material Matters: Fabric Choices in Antonio Melani Shorts

One aspect where Antonio Melani truly shines is their thoughtful fabric selection. Unlike budget brands that use generic polyester blends for everything, Antonio Melani tailors their fabric choices to the specific style and intended use of each short. Here’s what I’ve discovered about their primary fabric offerings:

Cotton Sateen

Many of their classic tailored shorts feature cotton sateen—a cotton weave with a slight sheen that looks more polished than flat cotton. The fabric has just enough structure to hold its shape throughout the day without feeling stiff.

My navy sateen shorts have been through countless summer events and still look crisp. The fabric is substantial enough to avoid transparency issues (a common problem with lighter-colored shorts) while remaining comfortable in heat.

Linen Blends

Pure linen is gorgeous but wrinkles intensely. Antonio Melani solves this with their linen blends, typically mixing linen with cotton and a touch of synthetic fiber for wrinkle resistance. The result maintains linen’s breathability while improving wearability.

I’ve found their linen blend shorts to be perfect for humid climates. After a trip to South Florida last summer, I was impressed that my linen blend shorts still looked presentable after a full day of sightseeing, while my friend’s pure linen shorts from another brand were completely creased.

Premium Stretch Fabrics

For their more fitted styles, Antonio Melani incorporates quality stretch fabrics that move with your body without losing shape. The key difference I’ve noticed compared to other brands is that even after multiple wears between washes, they don’t bag out at the knees or seat.

The slight stretch also makes these shorts more comfortable for all-day wear. I’ve worn mine for summer road trips and remained comfortable during hours of sitting.

Specialty Textured Fabrics

Each season, Antonio Melani introduces shorts in special textured fabrics like dobby weaves, subtle jacquards, or textured cotton. These unique fabrics add visual interest and dimension to otherwise simple shorts.

I have a pair in a subtle diamond textured fabric that looks plain from a distance but reveals its beautiful pattern up close. These special fabrics elevate the shorts beyond basic staples to statement pieces.

Performance Fabrics

More recently, Antonio Melani has introduced performance fabric shorts that incorporate moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties. These technical fabrics don’t look sporty, maintaining the brand’s polished aesthetic while adding practical benefits.

I purchased a pair for a Mediterranean cruise last year and found them perfect for transitioning from daytime excursions to casual evening activities on board.

Sizing Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit

After helping several friends navigate Antonio Melani sizing, I’ve gathered some insights that might help you find your perfect fit without the frustration of returns:

General Sizing Overview

Antonio Melani shorts typically run from size 0 to 16 in standard sizes. In my experience, the brand tends to run true to size or slightly generous compared to other department store brands. If you typically wear a size 8 in brands like Banana Republic or J.Crew, you’ll likely wear the same size in Antonio Melani.

One thing I appreciate about the brand is their consistent sizing across different styles. Unlike some retailers where I’m one size in one style and another size in a different cut, I can reliably purchase the same size across Antonio Melani’s various short designs.

Petite Options

Good news for my petite friends! Antonio Melani does offer petite sizing in many of their most popular shorts styles. These are thoughtfully proportioned with adjusted rise and inseam measurements to suit frames 5’4″ and under.

My sister, who stands 5’2″, swears by their petite tailored shorts. She reports that the proportions work much better for her frame than simply hemming regular-sized shorts, as the rise and pocket placement are also scaled appropriately.

Extended Sizing Availability

While Antonio Melani has expanded their range in recent years, their shorts currently go up to size 16. This is admittedly an area where the brand has room for improvement in terms of size inclusivity.

I have noticed that their shorts with elastic elements in the waistband offer more flexibility for different body types. The summer linen shorts with partial elastic backs, in particular, can accommodate a wider range of waist-to-hip ratios.

Inseam Variations

One important dimension to consider when shopping for Antonio Melani shorts is the inseam length, which varies by style:

• Short styles: 3-4 inch inseam
• Classic styles: 5-6 inch inseam
• Bermuda styles: 9-11 inch inseam

I personally find their 5-inch inseam shorts to be the most versatile for my height (5’7″). This length works for casual outings but can also transition to more polished settings when needed.

Trying Before Buying

If possible, I strongly recommend trying Antonio Melani shorts in person at Dillard’s before purchasing. This allows you to assess not just the numerical size, but also how the rise and leg opening work with your proportions.

When I first discovered the brand, I tried on three different styles in my usual size and found that while they all technically “fit,” the tailored style flattered my figure much more than the more relaxed cuts. This in-person assessment saved me from ordering styles online that wouldn’t have suited my body type.

Where to Purchase Antonio Melani Shorts

Since becoming a fan of the brand, I’ve explored various purchasing options and can offer some insights on where to find the best selection and value:

Dillard’s Department Stores

As the exclusive retailer of Antonio Melani, Dillard’s department stores offer the most comprehensive selection of the brand’s shorts. Their flagship stores in particular carry the full range of styles, colors, and sizes.

I make a point to visit Dillard’s whenever I’m near one of their larger locations. The in-store shopping experience allows me to assess fabric quality firsthand and try multiple sizes if needed. The sales associates in the Antonio Melani section are typically quite knowledgeable about the brand and can help with styling suggestions.

Dillard’s Online (Dillards.com)

When I can’t shop in person, Dillards.com offers the complete selection of Antonio Melani shorts. The website frequently has styles not available in smaller Dillard’s locations and occasionally offers online exclusives.

The site allows filtering by size, color, and style, making it easier to narrow down options. I’ve found their product descriptions to be detailed and accurate regarding fabric content and fit notes. Their shipping is reliable, though not particularly fast compared to some retailers.

Special Promotions and Sales

Antonio Melani shorts typically retail between $79-$129 depending on the style and fabric. However, I’ve developed some strategies for finding them at better prices:

• Dillard’s holds quarterly seasonal sales where Antonio Melani items may be discounted 30-40%
• Their semi-annual clearance events can offer even deeper discounts, though size availability becomes limited
• Holiday weekend sales (Memorial Day, Labor Day, etc.) often include the brand

I’ve had the most success shopping end-of-season sales for the following year. Last August, I purchased three pairs of Antonio Melani shorts at 65% off that became the foundation of my summer wardrobe this year.

Dillard’s Outlet Stores

If you have access to a Dillard’s Clearance Center or outlet location, these can be treasure troves for discounted Antonio Melani shorts. The selection varies widely, and shopping requires patience, but the savings can be substantial.

My most remarkable find was a pair of white scalloped hem shorts for just $29 (originally $89) at a Dillard’s outlet in Florida. They had a tiny, almost imperceptible mark on the back pocket that came out in the first wash.

Secondary Markets

While I generally prefer purchasing directly from authorized retailers, sites like Poshmark and eBay sometimes feature gently used or new-with-tags Antonio Melani shorts at reduced prices.

If going this route, I recommend searching for specific styles you’ve already tried in person to ensure proper fit, as returns are typically more complicated with these platforms.

Styling Your Antonio Melani Shorts: Outfit Ideas

One reason I’ve accumulated so many pairs of Antonio Melani shorts is their incredible versatility. Here are some of my go-to outfit formulas that showcase how these quality shorts can adapt to different occasions:

Polished Professional

For casual office days or client meetings in warm weather:

• Navy tailored Antonio Melani shorts
• Crisp white button-down shirt, sleeves rolled to elbows
• Nude pointed-toe flats
• Delicate gold jewelry
• Structured leather tote

This combination has been my summer Friday uniform for years. The quality construction of the shorts keeps the look professional rather than casual.

Weekend Chic

For farmers’ market visits or lunch with friends:

• White scalloped-hem Antonio Melani shorts
• Striped boatneck tee
• Leather sandals
• Straw market tote
• Simple hoop earrings

I love how the tailored structure of the shorts elevates this otherwise casual outfit, making it look intentional rather than thrown together.

Vacation Ready

For resort dinners or sightseeing in warm destinations:

• Printed Antonio Melani shorts (I love their subtle tropical patterns)
• Solid silk tank or linen camisole
• Metallic flat sandals
• Statement earrings
• Woven clutch

This formula packs efficiently for travel and looks put-together without trying too hard—perfect for vacation evenings when you want to look nice but stay comfortable.

Transitional Weather

For those in-between temperature days:

• Olive green Antonio Melani shorts
• Lightweight sweater or sweatshirt
• Ankle boots or loafers
• Light scarf that can be removed as temperatures rise
• Crossbody bag

I’ve worn this combination for spring and fall days when the temperature fluctuates. The structured shorts look more intentional than denim cutoffs would with the same top.

Summer Sophistication

For outdoor parties or upscale casual events:

• Black Antonio Melani tailored shorts
• Off-shoulder blouse or dressy tank
• Block heel sandals
• Statement bracelet
• Small structured handbag

This look has been my solution for outdoor summer events where dresses might be too fussy but jeans too casual. The shorts provide comfort while maintaining an elegant look.

Care and Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your Shorts

One of the reasons I’m willing to invest in Antonio Melani shorts is their durability—but proper care maximizes their lifespan. Here’s how I maintain mine season after season:

Reading and Following Care Labels

Antonio Melani care instructions vary by fabric type, and I’ve found that following them precisely makes a significant difference in maintaining the garment’s appearance. Their cotton sateen shorts, for instance, typically specify cold water washing and low heat drying to prevent shrinkage and maintain the fabric’s subtle sheen.

Their linen blend shorts often recommend gentle cycle washing and laying flat to dry to preserve the fabric’s texture and prevent excessive wrinkling. I’ve made the mistake of ignoring these specifics in the past and noticed a difference in how the garments looked afterward.

Washing Techniques

For all my Antonio Melani shorts, regardless of specific care instructions, I follow these general practices:

• Turn them inside out before washing to protect the outer fabric
• Use mild detergent free of brighteners or harsh chemicals
• Wash with similar colors and fabrics to prevent abrasion
• Avoid overcrowding the washing machine
• Skip fabric softeners, which can leave residue

For white or light-colored shorts, I pre-treat any spots immediately with a gentle stain remover and avoid letting stains set. For my white scalloped shorts, I occasionally use a color-safe bleach alternative to maintain their brightness.

Drying Considerations

Even when the care label permits machine drying, I often opt to air dry my Antonio Melani shorts to maximize their lifespan. The heat from dryers can break down elastic components and accelerate fabric aging.

For styles with structured elements like the tailored shorts, I smooth them out while damp and lay them flat to dry to maintain their shape. For linen blend styles, I’ve found that removing them from the dryer while slightly damp and hanging them reduces wrinkles substantially.

Seasonal Storage

At the end of summer, I prepare my Antonio Melani shorts for storage:

• Ensure they’re completely clean (even invisible food spots can attract insects)
• Store folded in a breathable cotton storage bag or box
• Add cedar blocks rather than mothballs to deter pests
• Keep in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight

This careful storage has prevented issues like yellowing, musty odors, or pest damage that I’ve experienced with less thoughtfully stored items.

Minor Repairs

Addressing small issues promptly extends the life of premium clothing. I keep a basic sewing kit on hand for minor fixes:

• Loose buttons can be reinforced before they fall off
• Small seam openings can be stitched before they expand
• Loose threads should be carefully trimmed rather than pulled

For more significant repairs, I don’t hesitate to use a professional tailor. I had the zipper replaced on my favorite pair of Antonio Melani shorts for $18—a worthwhile investment considering the $95 original price and how frequently I wear them.

How Antonio Melani Shorts Compare to Other Brands

Having tried numerous brands in similar price points, I can offer some comparative insights on how Antonio Melani shorts stack up against the competition:

J.Crew

J.Crew’s chino shorts offer similar classic styling to Antonio Melani’s tailored options but with some key differences. I find that Antonio Melani shorts typically offer better fabric quality with less thinning over time. However, J.Crew offers more color options each season and more frequent sales.

In terms of fit, I’ve found Antonio Melani to be more consistent across styles, while J.Crew’s sizing can vary significantly between different short designs. The construction details—like pockets, waistbands, and hems—tend to be more refined in Antonio Melani pieces.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic shorts and Antonio Melani shorts occupy similar price points, with both brands focusing on office-appropriate styles. In my experience, Antonio Melani offers better structure and tailoring, particularly in their work-appropriate shorts.

Banana Republic does excel in fabric innovation, offering performance fabrics and stretch blends across more of their line. However, I’ve found their quality control to be less consistent than Antonio Melani, with more variation between identical items.

Talbots

For classic, timeless shorts, both Talbots and Antonio Melani deliver reliable options. Talbots offers more size inclusivity, with regular, petite, plus, and plus petite options in most styles. Antonio Melani, however, tends to incorporate more current trends while maintaining sophistication.

I find Talbots shorts to be slightly more conservative in cut and styling, making them ideal for traditional office environments. Antonio Melani shorts often feature more contemporary details like scalloped hems or unique buttons that add visual interest.

White House Black Market

Both WHBM and Antonio Melani target the professional woman with tailored, sophisticated options. White House Black Market offers more embellished styles with details like rhinestone buttons or contrast piping, while Antonio Melani typically features cleaner designs with interest coming from fabric and cut.

In terms of longevity, I’ve found my Antonio Melani shorts outlast similar WHBM pieces, particularly in maintaining their shape and color fastness through multiple seasons.

Loft

At a lower price point than Antonio Melani, Loft offers trendy, affordable shorts options. The primary differences I’ve noticed are in fabric quality and construction details. Antonio Melani shorts feature better linings, stronger seams, and more substantial fabrics that drape better on the body.

Loft does excel in offering a wider range of casual styles, while Antonio Melani focuses on shorts that can transition from casual to professional settings. For pure cost-per-wear value, I’ve found Antonio Melani to be worth the higher initial investment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antonio Melani Shorts

Through conversations with friends and readers interested in the brand, I’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about Antonio Melani shorts:

Are Antonio Melani shorts appropriate for work environments?

This depends on your specific workplace culture, but in many business casual environments, their tailored styles—particularly the longer inseam options—are entirely appropriate when paired with polished tops. The quality construction and refined details make them suitable for professional settings where other shorts might not be.

I’ve successfully worn the 7-inch inseam tailored shorts to my office (marketing agency) with a silk blouse and structured blazer. The key is selecting solid colors in more substantial fabrics and avoiding casual details like distressing or excessive pockets.

How do Antonio Melani shorts fit compared to other brands?

In my experience comparing across brands, Antonio Melani shorts run true to size or slightly generous. If you wear a size 8 in brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, or J.Crew, you’ll likely wear an 8 in Antonio Melani as well.

The waistbands tend to sit at the natural waist rather than below it, which I find more flattering and comfortable for all-day wear. The leg openings provide comfortable room without excessive width that can look sloppy.

Do Antonio Melani shorts go on sale regularly?

Yes, but with some caveats. The core styles in basic colors (black, navy, white) are less frequently discounted deeply, while seasonal colors and prints typically see more significant markdowns as the season progresses.

Dillard’s offers several sale events throughout the year where Antonio Melani pieces may be included:

• End-of-season clearance (July/August for summer styles)
• After-Christmas sales
• Anniversary sales events
• Periodic weekend promotional events

Signing up for Dillard’s email notifications has helped me catch these sales when they happen.

How do I style Antonio Melani shorts for different seasons?

While primarily summer garments, these versatile shorts can extend into shoulder seasons:

For early spring:

• Pair with light sweaters and ankle boots
• Add lightweight scarves and cardigans
• Choose darker colors or seasonal prints

For late summer into fall:

• Combine with three-quarter sleeve tops
• Layer with lightweight blazers
• Transition to closed-toe flats or loafers

I’ve worn my olive green Antonio Melani shorts well into October in the Southeast by styling them with a lightweight sweater and suede loafers.

What are the best Antonio Melani shorts for travel?

Based on my travel experiences, their stretch twill and linen blend shorts pack exceptionally well. The stretch twill resists wrinkles and maintains shape even after long flights, while the linen blends offer breathability with significantly less creasing than pure linen.

I particularly recommend their styles with partial elastic waistbands for long travel days where comfort is essential but you still want to look put together at your destination.

Final Thoughts: Why Antonio Melani Shorts Earn Their Place in Your Wardrobe

After years of wearing and collecting Antonio Melani shorts, I remain convinced of their value despite their higher price point. The combination of quality construction, thoughtful design, and versatile styling potential makes them standout wardrobe investments.

What I appreciate most is how these shorts solve the common problem of finding shorts that are both comfortable and sophisticated. The thoughtful details—from perfectly placed pockets to elegant closures—elevate them beyond basic warm-weather necessities to versatile wardrobe workhorses.

If you’re considering investing in your first pair, I recommend starting with their classic tailored style in a neutral color that complements your existing wardrobe. This foundation piece will demonstrate their versatility and quality, likely inspiring you to add more specialized styles to your collection over time.

While fashion trends come and go, well-made, thoughtfully designed basics like Antonio Melani shorts remain relevant season after season. The initial investment amortized over years of wear makes them not just a stylish choice, but a practical one as well.

I’d love to hear about your experiences with the brand or answer any additional questions you might have! Drop me a comment below or reach out on Instagram, where I regularly share outfit ideas featuring my favorite Antonio Melani pieces.

Happy shopping!