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You’ve probably worn a pair of shorts in the summer or when you hit the gym, but have you ever stopped to consider how many types of shorts there are? Shorts may be considered casual attire in general, but there are actually casual, athletic, and even formal types worn on different occasions. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into all the most common types of shorts, including when to wear them and how to style them, with tips from image consultant Elle Monus and personal stylist Neepa Sikdar.

Common Types of Men’s Shorts

  • Cargo shorts: Cargo shorts are made from hardy fabrics and have multiple, deep pockets.
  • Bermuda shorts: Bermuda shorts are short trousers that stop above the knee. They’re more formal than other types of shorts.
  • Chino shorts: Chino shorts are made of cotton-twill fabric and have a slim, fitted silhouette.
  • Board shorts: Board shorts are loose-fitting, quick-drying shorts designed for surfing and other water activities.
Section 1 of 5:

Casual Shorts

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  1. 1
    Baggy Shorts Baggy shorts are comfortable and intentionally loose-fitting.[1] They’re very casual and often have lots of pockets, like cargo shorts. They typically end just above the knee and can be made of a variety of fabrics.
    • When to wear: Wear baggy shorts to informal events, or when you want to relax.
    • How to style: Pair baggy shorts with a more fitted shirt to create balance.

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Elle Monus is an image consultant and the co-founder of True Image Group. She has over 11 years of experience and specializes in holistic approaches to branding, size-inclusive image consulting, and personal styling.

    Neepa Sikdar is a personal stylist and the founder of Accessible Style. She has over 18 years of experience and has worked with brands such as Nordstrom and J. Crew.

  2. 2
    Boxer Shorts Boxers are shorts designed to be worn as underwear or sleepwear. They have a relaxed fit and are made from soft materials, like cotton. Boxer shorts often feature an elastic or buttoned waistband and a front fly opening.[2]
    • When to wear: Wear boxers to bed or when lounging around your house. They generally aren’t acceptable to wear in public.
    • How to style: Since boxers are sleepwear, pair them with a comfortable T-shirt or tank top, or wear them by themselves.
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  3. 3
    Cargo Shorts Cargo shorts are a casual style of shorts characterized by multiple large pockets. They were originally designed for the military, but have since transitioned into mainstream fashion. They’re typically made from hardy fabrics like cotton and are popular for outdoor activities.[3]
    • When to wear: Wear a pair of cargo shorts when you need to carry a lot of belongings in your pockets or when you want loose, breathable shorts to keep you cool on a hot day.
    • How to style: Keep things casual with a solid T-shirt or tank top and a pair of sneakers.
  4. 4
    Chino Shorts Chino shorts are a summer-friendly version of chino pants. They’re typically made of cotton-twill fabric and have a slim, fitted silhouette, often coming in colors such as navy, olive, and light blue.[4]
    • When to wear: Wear chinos when you want to strike a balance between casual and smart wear. Chinos are great for anything from a beach trip to a casual dinner.
    • How to style: Pair chinos with a button-down shirt and a pair of sneakers, loafers, or sandals.
  5. 5
    Cotton Shorts Cotton shorts can be any length, color, style, or pattern—they just have to be made of cotton. They provide all-day comfort due to their breathable fabric and are perfect for warm weather and casual activities.[5]
    • When to wear: Wear cotton shorts for any casual activity, from running errands to enjoying a stroll through the park.
    • How to style: Keep things casual with a simple T-shirt or hoodie, or throw on a sweater or button-down for a smart-casual look.
  6. 6
    Cut-Off Shorts Cut-offs are any shorts that were cut from a longer pair of pants, or intentionally designed to look as though they were. Most cut-offs are made of denim, but they can also be made of other fabrics, like corduroy, linen, or chambray. They frequently feature frayed, threadbare edges.[6]
    • When to wear: Rock a pair of cut-offs when you want a relaxed, carefree look with a bit of edge. Wear them to relax, or make a fashion statement at events like music festivals.
    • How to style: Pair your cut-offs with a loose T-shirt and a pair of sandals or sneakers for a simple summer outfit.
  7. 7
    Jean Shorts (Jorts) Jean shorts (also known as jorts or denim shorts) are simply shorts made from denim, like jeans. These casual shorts have a laid-back vibe and come in a wide range of washes and colors, from light blue to dark indigo.
  8. 8
    Linen Shorts As the name suggests, linen shorts are any shorts made of linen. Linen is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for warm climates. Many linen shorts have a relaxed fit, stop below the knee, and include details like pleats, cuffs, or buttons for added style.[8]
    • When to wear: Linen shorts are ideal for hot weather when you need clothing that’s loose and breathable.
    • How to style: For a summery outfit, pair your linen shorts with a matching linen shirt and a pair of espadrilles.
  9. 9
    Pajama Shorts Because they’re loungewear, pajama shorts are typically made of soft, breathable fabric, like cotton or silk. They often have an elastic or drawstring waistband and come in many different colors and patterns. They’re primarily used for sleeping, but can make a fashion statement when styled appropriately.
    • When to wear: Wear pajama shorts to sleep or when lounging around the house.
    • How to style: Wear a pajama top or T-shirt for sleeping, or coordinate them with a cardigan or matching top to make a fashion statement.
  10. 10
    Suspender Shorts Suspender shorts come with an attached pair of suspenders and are typically made of durable fabric, like twill or cotton. These shorts became popular in the 1920s and add a vintage, preppy vibe to an outfit.
    • When to wear: Opt for suspender shorts if you don’t want to wear a belt, or if you want a more stylish look.
    • How to style: Pair suspender shorts with a clean, white shirt and a pair of loafers for a stylish, vintage-inspired look.
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Section 2 of 5:

Formal Shorts

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  1. 1
    Bermuda Shorts Also known as walk shorts or dress shorts, Bermuda shorts are short trousers that stop just above the knee. In Bermuda, they’re considered appropriate business attire for men when made of suit-like material and worn with knee-high socks, a dress shirt, a tie, and a blazer.​​[9]
    • When to wear: Wear Bermuda shorts casually, or with the appropriate formal attire when the weather is warm.
    • How to style: Bermuda shorts are typically worn with knee-high socks, a button-down shirt, and a blazer.
  2. 2
    Golf Shorts Golf shorts are tailored shorts made of moisture-wicking material. They allow for unrestricted movement during a golf swing and are designed to be suitable for a golf course dress code, which often doesn’t allow denim, cargo, or athletic shorts. They feature specific pockets, like one designed for a ball marker, and have a non-slip waistband to keep a shirt tucked in.[10]
    • When to wear: Wear golf shorts when you’re playing golf and need to fit the course’s dress code requirements.
    • How to style: Wear a collared polo shirt, a belt that complements your golf shorts, and golf shoes. Add a baseball cap or visor to keep the sun out of your eyes while playing golf.
  3. 3
    Madras (Plaid Shorts) Originating in Madras, India, madras are plaid shorts admired for their vibrant, checkered design. They’re made from cotton and add a preppy vibe to any outfit.[11]
    • When to wear: Wear madras in the summer, when you want to dress up your outfit with a unique pattern.
    • How to style: For a classic look, pair your madras with a solid-colored shirt and some boat shoes.
  4. 4
    Tailored Shorts Tailored shorts are a polished, structured style of shorts that are typically made from high-quality fabrics like wool or linen. They feature clean lines, a fitted waist, and darts or pleats, making them the perfect blend of formal and casual.[12]
    • When to wear: Wear tailored shorts if you work in a smart-casual office or for a date night.
    • How to style: For a sophisticated look, pair tailored shorts with a blazer and leather loafers.
  5. 5
    Tennis Shorts Tennis shorts are athletic shorts specifically designed for tennis. They’re made from lightweight, breathable, and stretchy fabric to allow for a full range of motion during the game, and they have deep pockets for storing tennis balls. They’re considered formal shorts because professional and club events often require a specific dress code, such as the all-white rule at Wimbledon.[13]
    • When to wear: Wear tennis shorts when playing tennis or attending a tennis-related event.
    • How to style: Pair your tennis shorts with an athletic top, like a polo or T-shirt made of moisture-wicking fabric, and tennis shoes. Consider a headband or visor to keep your hair out of your face while you play.
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Section 3 of 5:

Athletic Shorts

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  1. 1
    Basketball Shorts As the name suggests, basketball shorts are designed to be worn when playing basketball. They’re lightweight and moisture-wicking, typically made from polyester. In the 80s and 90s, basketball players like Michael Jordan made them popular.
    • When to wear: Wear basketball shorts when playing basketball or for comfort during other physical activities.
    • How to style: To create a trendy, urban look, pair basketball shorts with a hoodie, your favorite sneakers, and accessories like headphones or caps.
  2. 2
    Board Shorts Board shorts are designed for surfing and spending time in the water. They’re loose-fitting, typically end just above the knee, and are made of quick-drying fabrics like polyester or nylon. They allow for free movement and comfort and often feature bold prints and colors, elastic waistbands and drawstrings, and mesh lining.[14]
    • When to wear: Wear board shorts when you want to go surfing or hang out at the beach.
    • How to style: Since board shorts are designed for surfing, men typically wear them shirtless, while women may pair them with a bikini top.
  3. 3
    Compression Shorts Compression shorts are snug-fitting and designed to be worn under regular shorts, pants, or uniforms. The tight material compresses against your muscles to reduce fatigue and prevent chafing. They’re also meant to improve flood flow and are great for athletic activities.[15]
    • When to wear: Wear compression shorts when you’re working out.
    • How to style: Wear compression shorts alongside your favorite workout gear. Though they’re typically worn under other shorts, you can also wear them by themselves.
  4. 4
    Cycling Shorts Cycling shorts, or bike shorts, are designed for competitive cycling. They’re made from stretchy materials like Lycra or spandex and often feature padding in the seat area to provide extra comfort during long rides.[16]
    • When to wear: Wear cycling shorts when riding a bike, especially for long rides.
    • How to style: If you’re cycling, pair your cycling shorts with a moisture-wicking top. For a fashionable, sporty look, pair them with an oversized T-shirt, a hoodie, or even a blazer.
  5. 5
    Dolphin Shorts Though they’re more commonly worn by women these days, dolphin shorts are unisex shorts designed for athletics. They’re very short and feature side slits with rounded corners and an elastic waistband at the top. This style was very popular in the 80s.[17]
    • When to wear: Wear dolphin shorts when you’re working out or lounging at home.
    • How to style: For an athletic look, pair dolphin shorts with a T-shirt or tank top and your favorite pair of sneakers.
  6. 6
    Gym Shorts Gym shorts are lightweight, flexible shorts designed for working out. They’re made from breathable fabrics like cotton and polyester and frequently feature details like elastic waistbands, pockets, and logos for different athletic brands.[18]
    • When to wear: Wear gym shorts when playing sports or working out at the gym.
    • How to style: Wear your gym shorts with a moisture-wicking shirt and a comfortable pair of sneakers.
  7. 7
    Hiking Shorts Hiking shorts are designed to be worn outdoors and are made from durable materials like nylon or ripstop. They often feature practical details like zippered pockets and belt loops.
    • When to wear: Wear hiking shorts when hiking or doing other outdoor activities.
    • How to style: Depending on the weather conditions, pair your hiking boots with a moisture-wicking T-shirt, a flannel shirt, or a fleece jacket, along with a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
  8. 8
    Running Shorts Running shorts are designed for comfort and performance, and are made from flexible, moisture-wicking materials like polyester, nylon, and spandex. They may feature convenient details, such as pockets, built-in liners, and reflective details for safety.[19]
    • When to wear: Wear these shorts when going for a run or working out in general.
    • How to style: Pair running shorts with your favorite workout shirt and sneakers. Consider wearing headbands and sweatbands to stay comfortable.
  9. 9
    Soccer Shorts Typically made from polyester, soccer shorts are lightweight shorts designed for agility and comfort while playing soccer. They have sleek, streamlined designs, and often feature elastic waistbands, pockets, and team logos.
    • When to wear: Wear these shorts when playing soccer or another field sport.
    • How to style: Wear soccer shorts with a jersey or an athletic T-shirt, as well as soccer cleats.
  10. 10
    Swim Trunks Swim trunks are similar to board shorts but are generally shorter and more form-fitting to reduce drag in the water. They have a built-in mesh liner and are made from quick-drying materials like nylon and polyester.[20]
    • When to wear: Wear swim shorts to the beach or when participating in water activities, such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
    • How to style: For a beach-ready style, pair swim shorts with a lightweight tank top or rash guard and some sunglasses. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
  11. 11
    Walking Shorts Walking shorts are lightweight, breathable, and designed for comfort and activity. They’re made of quick-drying materials, such as nylon or polyester, and are medium to long-length shorts. They often feature mesh pockets and an elastic waistband.
    • When to wear: Wear walking shorts when you’re hiking, exercising, spending time outdoors, or just want to be comfortable.
    • How to style: Pair walking shorts with a breathable T-shirt and a pair of sneakers or hiking boots for a comfortable, active outfit.
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Section 4 of 5:

Women’s Shorts

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  1. 1
    Booty Shorts Booty shorts, or cheeky shorts, are very small shorts that barely cover your rear and upper thighs. These shorts can be made from any material and often feature details like lace trim, strappy sides, and metallic fabrics.
    • When to wear: Wear booty shorts at home, at the beach, or during a night out.
    • How to style: For a fun, summery look, pair booty shorts with a crop top, cami, or bralette.
  2. 2
    Boy Shorts Boy shorts are shorts for women that are designed to resemble men’s boxer shorts. They’re loose and breathable, often made from cotton or cotton-blend fabrics, and offer enough coverage to wear around town.
    • When to wear: Boy shorts are ideal for relaxing around the house or running quick errands.
    • How to style: Pair boy shorts with a comfortable T-shirt or tank top for a cute, casual outfit.
  3. 3
    Boyfriend Shorts Boyfriend shorts are a style of women’s shorts that are designed with a deliberately loose and relaxed fit in the hips and thighs, like shorts you may borrow from a boyfriend. They often sit lower on the hips and may feature a cuffed or rolled hem. Boyfriend shorts can be made of denim, linen, or soft knit fabrics.[21]
    • When to wear: Rock a pair of boyfriend shorts on a casual outing when you want to enjoy the warm weather.
    • How to style: Wear a fitted tank top or crop top to balance the loose shorts.
  4. 4
    Capri Shorts Capris fall between shorts and full-length pants, usually stopping at or just below the knee. They’re made of breathable fabric to keep you cool, while providing more coverage than traditional shorts.[22]
    • When to wear: Wear capris for casual outdoor events, like picnics, running errands, or going on a bike ride.
    • How to style: Dress capris up with a nice button-down, or keep things casual with a T-shirt or polo.
  5. 5
    Culottes Culottes are shorts or capris that have very wide legs, giving them the appearance of a skirt. They originated in the early 20th century as an alternative to skirts when participating in athletic activities. Now, they’re more of a fashion statement.
    • When to wear: Wear culottes when you want a practical alternative to a skirt.
    • How to style: Dress your culottes up with a nice blouse and a pair of heels, or dress them down with a simple top and a pair of sneakers or sandals.
  6. 6
    Daisy Dukes Named after the character Daisy Duke from The Dukes of Hazzard, Daisy Dukes are very short, tight-fitting denim shorts. They’re typically made from a pair of cut-off jeans.[23]
    • When to wear: Wear Daisy Dukes around the house, or to an appropriate outing, like going to a country bar.
    • How to style: For a cute Southern-inspired outfit, pair your Daisy Dukes with a tied flannel shirt and a pair of cowgirl boots.
  7. 7
    Flared Shorts As the name suggests, flared shorts are simply shorts that flare out a bit at the hem. They’re typically more fitted at the waist and are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and materials, including denim, cotton, and linen. The style is often reminiscent of clothing from the 70s.
    • When to wear: Rock flared shorts when you want a fun, feminine outfit.
    • How to style: For a vintage look, pair flared shorts with a cropped or fitted top and a pair of platform sandals or sneakers.
  8. 8
    High-Waisted Shorts High-waisted shorts are pretty straightforward—they’re shorts with a high waist, typically sitting somewhere above your belly button. They’re designed to lengthen your legs by sitting at your natural waist. High-waisted shorts are available in a variety of materials, colors, and patterns.[24]
    • When to wear: Wear high-waisted shorts casually or when you want to make your legs look longer.
    • How to style: For a vintage vibe, pair high-waisted shorts with a crop top or a tucked-in blouse.
  9. 9
    Lace Shorts Lace shorts are typically made from soft fabrics like silk, satin, or cotton, and are overlaid with lace or feature lace embellishments along the hem, waist, or pockets. They often give off a romantic or bohemian vibe.
    • When to wear: Wear lace shorts when you want to add a touch of elegance to an otherwise casual outfit.
    • How to style: To create a refined look, pair lace shorts with a blouse or more formal top, along with a stylish pair of flats or heels.
  10. 10
    Paperbag Shorts Paperbag shorts are a specific type of high-waisted shorts that feature a ruffled, cinched waist that resembles a paper bag. These shorts have a looser fit and are made from light, breezy fabrics like cotton or linen.[25]
    • When to wear: Rock paperbag shorts when you want a stylish outfit that’s also comfortable and breathable.
    • How to style: Pair paperbag shorts with a loose, tucked-in blouse for a laidback vibe, or with a fitted top to balance the outfit.
  11. 11
    Romper Shorts Romper shorts, or simply a romper, are a one-piece outfit that consists of a top sewn into a pair of shorts. Rompers are a casual alternative to a full-length jumpsuit and can be worn for a variety of occasions.
    • When to wear: Wear a romper to the beach, to brunch, or to a more formal occasion, depending on the style and material.
    • How to style: For a daytime look, wear your romper with a pair of sneakers or sandals, and throw on your favorite jacket or sweater. For a nighttime look, wear a pair of heels and your favorite accessories.
  12. 12
    Scallop Hem Shorts Scallop hem shorts are any type of shorts that have a decorative, curved hem, resembling small scallop shells. These shorts come in a variety of materials and colors, and add a playful, feminine touch to an outfit.
    • When to wear: Wear scallop hem shorts to add a whimsical touch to a casual outfit, like when you’re attending a garden party or a picnic.
    • How to style: Pair scallop hem shorts with practically anything—your favorite T-shirt, tank top, or blouse.
  13. 13
    Skorts A skort is a pair of shorts with extra fabric on top, making it look like a skirt. Skorts are perfect for those who are active, but don’t want to sacrifice style for practicality or worry about wardrobe malfunctions.[26]
    • When to wear: Wear a skort whenever you want to wear a skirt but need to have more coverage.
    • How to style: If you’re doing something active, like hiking or yoga, pair your skort with your favorite athleisure clothes. To dress your skort up, pair it with your favorite blouse, some tights, and a nice pair of flats or heels.
  14. 14
    Slip Shorts Slip shorts are made of airy materials like silk or cotton and are designed to be worn under dresses or skirts to provide extra coverage and prevent chafing. They’re very thin, so they’re practically invisible under your clothes and don’t show lines.[27]
    • When to wear: Wear slip shorts when you need coverage, want to prevent chafing, or want to smooth out your body without adding extra bulk to your outfit.
    • How to style: In general, slip shorts are hidden underneath a skirt or dress, but you can wear a pair in a unique color to add a pop of color to your outfit.
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Section 5 of 5:

Choosing the Right Shorts

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  1. 1
    Consider how you want your shorts to fit. Do you prefer a tailored fit or something a bit looser and more comfortable? If possible, try your shorts on before you buy them so you can see how they feel and fit. Make sure they aren’t too tight or too baggy for your preference.
  2. 2
    Determine how long you want your shorts to be. Monus says, “The right fit is everything! Check your rise and inseam measurements.”[28] Checking your measurements will help ensure your shorts fit exactly how you want them to. For example, common men’s shorts’ inseams are 5” (12.7 cm), 7” (17.8 cm), 9” (22.9 cm), and 11” (28 cm). Sikdar explains, “Common inseams for women are 3” (7.6 cm), 4” (10.2 cm), 5” (12.7 cm), and 8” (20.3 cm).”[29] The larger the number, the longer the shorts.
    • The inseam is the length of the inside of a pant leg, measured from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg opening.
    • The rise refers to where the shorts sit at your waist. To find the rise, measure from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.
  3. 3
    Think about the material. In most cases, you’ll probably want to wear your shorts when the weather is hot or when you’ll be doing a lot of physical activity. In that case, go with shorts that are made of breathable, lightweight material, like cotton. If you’re very outdoorsy, you may prefer shorts made of more sturdy materials so they don’t get ruined.
  4. 4
    Consider when and where you want to wear them. In general, most shorts are casual, but some are even more casual than others. Think about what kind of activities you want to do. For example, if you want to go hiking, you’d probably want to wear hiking or cargo shorts. If you plan on wearing your shorts on a date, though, you might want to go with something a bit more smart-casual, like Bermuda shorts or tailored shorts.
    • Sikdar adds, “It’s good to have a selection of shorts in your closet, such as denim shorts, printed shorts, white shorts, and maybe one or two bright, fun colors.”[30]
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  1. https://www.kuhl.com/borninthemountains/before-you-buy-golf-shorts?srsltid=AfmBOorFAb4q3ohYYjcXHe9PyeQIpxsLoE4XFZMRWWoTekqV1zAX1ieh
  2. https://www.realmenrealstyle.com/how-wear-shorts/
  3. https://www.tellar.co.uk/what-are-the-different-styles-of-shorts-a-complete-guide-for-every-body-type
  4. https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/summer-shorts-guide/
  5. https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/summer-shorts-guide/
  6. https://www.scienceforsport.com/compression-garments-do-they-actually-work/?srsltid=AfmBOoqibPGviHTTFPq1paQxN2uXTemU0aZsQRARWrVqypkLEG4U2swn
  7. https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/summer-shorts-guide/
  8. https://debriefshorts.com/blogs/news/everything-there-is-to-know-about-shorts
  9. https://debriefshorts.com/blogs/news/everything-there-is-to-know-about-shorts
  10. https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/summer-shorts-guide/
  11. https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/bathing-suits-for-gentlemen/
  12. https://sewguide.com/different-types-of-shorts/
  13. https://www.themodestman.com/types-of-shorts/
  14. https://debriefshorts.com/blogs/news/everything-there-is-to-know-about-shorts
  15. https://www.tellar.co.uk/what-are-the-different-styles-of-shorts-a-complete-guide-for-every-body-type
  16. https://www.tellar.co.uk/what-are-the-different-styles-of-shorts-a-complete-guide-for-every-body-type
  17. https://www.lezhougarment.com/a-guide-to-28-different-types-of-shorts-with-pictures/
  18. https://www.lezhougarment.com/a-guide-to-28-different-types-of-shorts-with-pictures/
  19. Elle Monus. Image Consultant. Expert Interview
  20. Neepa Sikdar. Personal Stylist. Expert Interview
  21. Neepa Sikdar. Personal Stylist. Expert Interview

About This Article

Raven Minyard, BA
Co-authored by:
wikiHow Staff Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Raven Minyard received her BA in English and Creative Writing from Sweet Briar College in 2020. While in college, she served as the Coeditor-in-Chief of Sweet Briar's literary magazine Red Clay and has since gone on to write for publications such as The Zillennial Zine and Halloween Every Night. Raven recalls reading articles from wikiHow's early days during her childhood and is thrilled to now write for their content team. She enjoys learning about new interests and topics with each article she writes and hopes to help audiences of all backgrounds continue to learn new and exciting things.
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Updated: October 1, 2025
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