Finding The Perfect Pair Of Jean Shorts Can Be Daunting But It’s Not Impossible
While summer style trends come and go, denim shorts remain a classic warm weather staple of peak Americana fashion. Shopping for a flattering pair of jeans shorts can be daunting, to say the least, but its not impossible, especially when you have a little guidance to help sift through the good, the bad and the very, very ugly.
I thought I found the holy grail of denim shorts while shopping in one of my go-to stores, also known as my mothers closet, several years ago. In my biased point of view, these incredibly flattering Levis were the best cut-offs ever made, thanks to the fashionably frayed hem, loose leg and just-high-enough waist. They were a very specific shade of light wash denim that I didnt think existed, but much to my dismay, these shorts disappeared approximately three years ago.
Id hoped to simply order a fresh pair online, or, at most, actually go into the Levis store and rebuy the very same style. Alas, my mother revealed that she obtained these magical cut-offs around 1977. Yes, seriously. I also learned that this particular style doesnt actually exist, as she cut them herself, which explained why my quick replacement strategy didnt go as smoothly as Id hoped.
Sadly, while Ive yet to find an exact replica of my long-lost vintage Levis, my extensive search did lead me to plenty of stylish denim shorts that are both flattering and fashionableas long as they followed a few rules.
Khaite: The It Girl Mid
These jeans are also available at Neiman Marcus for $420.
Waist sizes: 23-32 | Inseam length: 33 inches | Material: 100% cotton
Luxury label Khaite was founded in 2016 by Catherine Holstein and has seen a meteoric rise in popularity amongst the fashion set. This is a great relaxed fit, mid-rise jean, says McCool. While its pretty much universally flattering, it works well to balance you out if you have a narrow waist with slightly wider hip. Pair them with a tight-fitting knit on top or a tucked in tee. Gallagher loves this uber cool-girl denim brand too, and she recommends Khaite for petite ladies or those with a small waist and hips. She also likes the Abigail jean in Simsbury washed black. To note: Khaite jeans run small so you will likely need to size up.
Best Denim Shorts For Big Butts: Crvy Vintage High
If youve been blessed with a big butt, you know all too well that shopping for shorts can be even more frustrating than usual. Having a big butt makes it feel like youre always in between two sizes, and if youre not careful, you can end up with an uncomfortably tight fit or something that looks way too baggy.
These shorts are ideal for girls who have a little more to flaunt since they have a lower hem that sweeps across the back, resulting in the perfect no-show fit. The vintage-inspired design also creates a worn in, stretchy feel so you have a bit more room to start with.
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Best Skinny: Madewell High
Madewell
When it comes to finding the best pair of skinny jeans, Madewell hits all of our marksand their jeans are eco-friendly. Constructed from 57 percent post-consumer recycled cotton, these high-rise skinny jeans might be made of denim but theyre so stretchy and comfortable that they feel like yoga pants.
Price at time of publish:$128
Material: 57% recycled cotton, 35% Tencel lyocell, 6% recycled polyester, 2% elastane | Size Range: 24-32 | Inseam: 28.5 inches | Rise: 10 inches | Closure: Button fly | Care: Machine wash
Reformation: Slimming And Stretchy
Waist sizes: 23-31 | Inseam length: 30 inches | Material: 64% organic cotton, 35% Tencel/lyocell, 1% EcoLycra
This high-rise pair looks good on just about everyone, and these have a bit of stretch but keep their shape well, says personal stylist Marjorie Striebel with Ready To Where. They work well with booties, flats or sneakers, and they go with everything so you dont have to overthink it.
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Best Value: American Eagle Stretch Mom Jean
American Eagle
What We Love: These classic mom jeans come in extensive sizes at an affordable price.
What We Don’t Love: They are a bit baggier than some mom jeans.
They’re stretchy, they hold their shape, and they look good on nearly every body type. And since these jeans are available in sizes 000 to 20 and short, regular, long, and extra-long length, there’s a jean for everyone. And at an amazing price, there’s so much to love about these pants. The combination of their relaxed silhouette and high-rise waist makes them comfortable and supportive without feeling slouchy.
Price at time of publish: $50
Size Range: 000-20 | Rise: High | Materials: 73% Cotton, 10% Modal, 9% Recycled Polyester, 7% Recycled Cotton, 1% Elastane
Best Denim Shorts For Moms: Levis Mid
Moms can rock any length of shorts, but these are a practical pick for when youre chasing kids around all day. One mom mentioned that shes always hated wearing shorts because they ride up throughout the day, but that these are super stretchy, hold you in, and definitely dont ride up.
A few people have asked me for some family-friendly shorts, and these certainly fit the bill. Plus, a good Target find is always a win!
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Best Distressed: American Eagle Stretch Ripped Crossover Highest Waist Mom Jean
American Eagle
What We Love: Perfectly placed rips and a crossover waistband gives these jeans an artistic edge.
What We Don’t Love: They run small and only come in one wash.
There’s such a wide range of distressed denim. You can buy a pair with one rip or another that’s ripped from hip to ankle. We like this design from American Eagle because it has just the right amount of rips. The slim leg and high rise keeps the design from looking too sloppy. The asymmetrical crossover waistband is an unexpected detail that makes the style unique and trendy. The jeans are also made sustainably to reduce water and plastic. You’ll look good and feel good wearing them.
Price at time of publish: $60
Size Range: 000X short-20 long | Rise: High | Materials: 80% Cotton, 10% Modal, 9% Polyester, 1% Elastane
Best Straight: Everlane The Way
Everlane
What We Love: Look effortlessly cool in these straight leg jeans that lift your booty and come in unique washes.
What We Don’t Love: The jeans have inconsistent sizing.
Straight jeans bring out our inner cool girl, and Everlane’s ’90s-inspired style doesn’t disappoint. One of our editors fell in love at first sight with the way they lift her booty and don’t create a gap in the back waistband when sitting down. Design details like the raw hem and the crease down the middle are effortlessly stylish. Fans of colored jeans will also love how this style comes in fun shades like lilac, burnt orange, and green. The real question is how many washes will you choose?
Price at time of publish: $98
Size Range: 23-35 | Rise: High | Materials: 98% Organic Cotton, 2% Elastane
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Best Worn In Denim Shorts: Good American Good Curve High Waist Denim Shorts
Good American denim is known for being super stretchy and soft. These light blue wash shorts were designed to fit a variety of body types and have a slightly distressed look to them.
They also have really great reviews that note that the high waist fits comfortably, they dont create any huge gaps, and the material doesnt cut into your legs when you sit down.
Best Boyfriend: Artizia Denim Forum The Boyfriend High Rise Loose
Aritzia
Boyfriend jeans are where it’s at for a cool, laid-back style that can be dressed up or down, no matter the occasion. When searching for the best pair of boyfriend jeans, we wanted a pair with a classic design that is flattering despite the looser fit. We love these high-rise jeans for their 100 percent organic cotton denim material, high rise, and timeless features. On top of that, they are set at a great price point for the quality, and the slouchy silhouette adds an extra layer of comfort.
Price at time of publish:$110
Material: 100% organic cotton | Size Range: 23-32 | Inseam: 28 inches | Rise: 12 inches | Closure: Button fly | Care: Machine wash
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Best Ankle: Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Womens Jeans
Free People
Ankle jeans come in all shapes but our favorite is the straight leg style, which gives off a more comfortable first feel . These high-waisted straight ankle jeans from Levis are made from 99 percent cotton with a slight stretch. They have a slim fit on the waist, hip, and thigh area and become looser around the leg area for a relaxed feel.
Price at time of publish:$108 for Relaxed in Middle Road color
Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Range: 24-32 | Inseam: 27 inches, 29 inches | Rise: 12 inches | Closure: Button fly | Care: Machine wash cold
Best Stretchy: Good American Always Fits Good Classic
Good American
Khloe Kardashian must know a thing or two about stretchy denimand this pair proves it. If someone told us these are the jeans from The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, we wouldnt be surprised . According to the brand, this is one-size-fits four, meaning its bound to stay in your closet through any fluctuations. Constructed from a mix of recycled and regular cotton, elastane, and Elasterell-P , these are the stretchiest and most form-fitting on the list.
Price at time of publish:$159
Material: 86.5% cotton, 5% recycled cotton, 4.5% Elasterell-P, 4% elastane | Size Range: 00-32 | Inseam: 28 inches | Rise: 11.25 inches | Closure: Button with zip fly | Care: Machine wash cold, inside out
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Veronica Beard: Big Bold & Classic Cool
Veronica Beard
Waist sizes: 23-32 | Inseam length: 32 inches | Material: 100% cotton
Founded in 2009, Veronica Beard was a standout early on for their tailored blazers, but theyve since become a coveted source for stylish, flattering denim. This well-fitting, wide leg style is on-trend and looks good on lots of body types, says Striebel. We especially love the chic light wash.
Best White Denim Shorts: Joes Ozzie Cutoff Denim Shorts
White shorts scream summer, so I certainly couldnt discount that when curating this list. These shorts have such great reviews that note how comfortable they are. Reviewers also pointed out that they arent sheer, which is extremely important when buying white denim.
I also love that they arent too long or too short. Theyre a versatile staple that would complement a variety of body types.
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Best Madewell Denim Shorts: High
Its probably not surprising that denim shorts from Madewell made it onto this list since their jeans are a go-to for comfort. These high-rise shorts were recommended by women with varying body types, but it was noted that you should go up one size if you have a bigger butt or thighs.
Several women in my Facebook group suggested these and pointed out that because they dont gap in the back like so many other jean shorts do.
What Jeans Style Will Work Best For My Body Type
First, a great pair of jeans should fit well and feel comfortable, no matter the style. Not everyones body fits into preset shapes, such as hourglass, round or triangle eithermany people are often somewhere in between. The benefit of the wide variety of denim fits available right now is that theres something for every build and body type.
- For petite frames: If you have a petite build you dont necessarily need a petite jean. A cropped ankle jean works well too, says Striebel, because of the shorter length. Flares are also great because they elongate the leg and can be worn with clogs or block heeled boots for comfort.
- For curvy frames: A straight fit is really flattering, says Striebel. A crop to show off the ankle is good. High-rise jeans flatter also curves because they can show off your hips and waist, and they look great with shorter or boxier tops.
- For narrow frames: Go for a straight leg or relaxed straight style with more of a 90s look, according to Striebel. Flare or wide-leg jeans work really well for straight-hip builds, Striebel says, adding they visually create shape.
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Best Levis Denim Shorts: Levis 501 Shorts
Levis are a go-to denim brand for many, but this particular style is extremely popular in the denim shorts world. I personally own these and LOVE them.
Other reviewers raved about their perfect length and liked that while they fit well, they werent skin tight. Pair them with a plain white tee and some comfortable sneakers for a relaxed yet polished look.
Pro tip: they also look good when worn over a one-piece bathing suit or bikini!
How To Choose The Best Jean Shorts For Women
Fit: Any piece of clothing must be bought if they fit you well! Similarly, with jean shorts, it is important to choose the best jean shorts for women as per their fit, design, and whether they make your legs look toned or not! The best jean shorts for women should be looser around your legs, but not too baggy! They should provide your legs with enough room to settle comfortably but the shorts shouldnt make your overall outfit appear unflattering.
Style: Purchasing a pair of stretchy jean shorts for women can be tricky if you are not aware of the style that you want to go for. There are shorts that hold their shape till your knees without being too clingy, while some others end just beneath your butt cheeks. Choose the ones that appeal to your fashion sense the most.
Fabric: It is always recommended to purchase pants that are made of premium-quality fabric. However, your cute jean shorts for women must also be washable, and shouldnt look faded after just the first few washes. The edges of some shorts can wear out easily so it is better to choose jean shorts whose fabric is durable and tear-resistant.
Comfort: While comfort is subjective, if your jean shorts are not stretchy, they will probably be too tight and uncomfortable. You should choose shorts that would not restrict your movements or irritate your skin. With that being said, it is recommended to purchase jorts that are made of buttery soft material to experience the utmost comfort and support.
Also Check: Straight Leg Jeans Vs Skinny
Lagence: An Elevated Updated Skinny Fit
Shopbop
Waist sizes: 23-34 | Inseam length: 30 inches | Material: 94% cotton, 4% polyester, 2% spandex
Womenswear brand LAgence combines low-key California vibes with Parisian cool, and their denim has a cult following. If you want to stick with a skinny jean, coated styles are big right now, says Striebel. I like LAgence because of the fit and the coating doesnt wash off or fade.
Madewell Roadtripper Denim Bike Shorts
Bermuda shorts dont have to be your grandmas shorts! Theyre incredibly stylish and comfy! Best of all, you wont have to worry at all about your booty hanging out in these.
These shorts have a decent amount of stretch making them easy to wear all day long whether youre heading out with the girls or going to the park with the kids.
I picked these shorts up last summer but wasnt 100% sure I would wear that all that often. Turns out I wore them just as much as my other jean shorts!
Also Check: High Rise Womens Flare Jeans
How Do I Know Which Rise Works Best For Me
In general, high-rise styles work well when you have height, and mid-rise styles work well for shorter frames or those who are short-waisted, says Striebel. But, you should experiment with various brands because everything fits differently. If a jean has stretch, thats important for creating comfort with higher rises.
What Are The Different Types Of Jean Shorts
Take a look at the different types of jean shorts for women and add your favorites to the shopping cart, pronto!
Classic Blue Jean Shorts: All of us have one or two pairs of classic blue jean shorts lying somewhere in our wardrobe. These jorts are highly recommended for individuals who love regular-waisted pants more than high or low-waisted ones. These shorts end around your thighs and offer the best comfort on sulky or extremely sunny days.
Mom Jean Shorts: If you are fond of baggy high-waisted jean shorts that look stylish and wouldnt restrict your movements, mom jean shorts are the perfect fit for you! These shorts can be styled with any tucked-in shirts or blouses to make them look fashionable.
Knee Jorts: Good ol knee jorts can never go out of style. These stretchy jean shorts for women can be worn every day, and paired with tops, shirts, or designer outfits. They hug your body and cause no disturbance in your movements. Knee jean shorts are highly-recommended for casual meetings, or vacations where you should dress trendy while being comfortable.
Jean Overall Shorts: It is a common myth that overall shorts are mostly worn by men! Over the years, women, too, have shown interest in overall shorts and added the best ones to their wardrobe. You can pair jean overall shorts with casual crop tops or bralettes and remain comfortable. Choose overalls that can flaunt your figure while making it easier for you to work on your daily chores.
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