The 12 Best Denim Shorts of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
From cutoffs to slouchy silhouettes, these are the jean shorts you’ll want to live in all summer long.
InStyle / David Hattan
Ahh, the trusty jean shorts. From the coastal-cool aesthetic of 1960s California to the Indie Sleaze era, this failsafe summer staple has cemented its place in fashion folklore. And we haven’t even referenced Daisy Duke or Patti Smith or Beyoncé at Coachella or…the list goes on. Just say “jean shorts” and it’ll likely bring up your own archive of images. While we all have our favorite pair of jean shorts, it never hurts to add another to your wardrobe especially when the styles are endless. However, not all jean shorts are created equal, or worth the money.
What makes jean shorts a summer go-to are their endless versatility. With a wide range of options available, you can undoubtedly find a pair that fits your style, shape, and setting. For instance, distressed designs can be perfect for daytime dressing, while tailored silhouettes or high-waisted styles lean more elevated.
To help you navigate the world of jean shorts, we consulted several fashion experts for their take on the latest trends and styles. We also tested dozens of jean shorts ourselves in a range of styles and silhouettes, and on a variety of body shapes and sizes. As we pulled each pair on, we took note of the rise and where it landed on our waist, as well as the length and where it fell on our leg. We also considered design details, including wash, pockets, and other embellishments, like frayed hems. Whatever type of jean short you’re looking for, we found it here.
Related: The 16 Best Skirts of 2023 to Welcome Warmer Weather
Best Overall: Levi's Authorized Vintage 501 Shorts
What We Love: They’ll truly last a lifetime — which isn’t an easy feat in today’s fast fashion climate. What We Don’t Love: We wish they had a wider range of washes for plus-sizes.
Levi’s 501s are the quintessential jean shorts — the first pair ever invented — and a true wardrobe hero. As Liz Power, owner of Awoke Vintage in Brooklyn reminds us, “They were originally used as practical workwear for laborers and miners so they were made to last.” 501s are an icon of American fashion. With a mid-rise, straight-leg fit, each pair is crafted from authentic, reclaimed vintage denim that’s reimagined by Levi’s in-house tailors, making them both kinder to the planet and a piece of wearable history.
You can choose from a whopping 34 washes, including traditional light blue and more fun hues like orange or yellow. And while we appreciate that plus-size folks have a variety of options, many of the washes don’t extend beyond a size 34.
Price at time of publish: $70
Size: 23–39 | Washes: 34 | Details: Belt loops, button fly, hand altered with patching, chain stitched, distressed
Best Budget: H&M High Denim Shorts
What We Love: The shape is a timeless style that you’ll be able to wear for years to come. What We Don’t Love: These run ever so slightly small, so we recommend sizing up.
We always stock up on affordable basics at H&M — especially when it comes to denim. We are fond of their High Denim Shorts because the classic silhouette is a foolproof style that will work with just about everything in your wardrobe. The micro raw hem also gives this traditional pair a cool-girl edge. Although frayed hems are prone to unraveling and shortening over time, handwashing the shorts can help keep them intact. Even with the special care, the affordable price is hard to beat.
As for fit, the waistband sits snugly along your midsection, so you’re less likely to experience any annoying gapping that is commonly associated with jean shorts. This important detail can make the jeans feel a tad tight, so if you want some extra wiggle room, go one size up from what you’d usually select.
Price at time of publish: $28
Size: 0–26 | Washes: 4 | Details: Five pockets, belt loops, zip fly, raw hem edges
Best Splurge: AGOLDE Parker Shorts
What We Love: They strike a solid middle ground — they’re not so short for wardrobe mishaps but not long enough that you feel too modest. What We Don’t Love: These shorts don’t have any stretch, so they can feel a bit uncomfortable until broken in.
Just like full-length denim, well-crafted jeans shorts will last you for years. If you’re willing (and ready) to invest, we recommend the Parker style from Agolde. InStyle’s Senior Beauty Commerce Editor, Kaitlin Clark, says this pair never fails her, even after almost a decade of wear. “Cutoffs can be tricky if you’re tall (like me), and a pair that looks cute on someone shorter tends to look like booty shorts on me — which is definitely not my style. These are the perfect mid-length: They’re not so short that I’m uncomfortable and tugging at them all day, but they’re short enough to still get the cool girl summer look I want.”
The high-rise fit is both flattering and comfortable, and the subtle distressed hem gives the shorts an authentic, lived-in look. And, although distressed hems are more likely to fray over time, Clark says that this has maintained the perfect length over the years. Like most high-end denim, it isn’t very stretchy but after a few wears they’ll beautifully mold to your body.
Price at time of publish: $158
Size: 23–34 | Washes: 1 | Details: Belt loops, button fly, five pockets, distressed raw-edge hem
Best Plus-Size: Madewell The Plus Mid-Length Mom Jean Short
What We Love: These best-selling mid-length shorts soften with wear and offer a moderate amount of stretch. What We Don’t Love: This style is only available in a light wash.
Madewell is home to an incredible selection of plus-size clothing, and these light denim shorts are one of their best-sellers. They feature a comfortable and flattering ultra-high-rise, as well as an A-line silhouette that’s chic and timeless. Small details, like the unique stitching on the front and back, also makes these standout from other options.
Because they’re made with 100 percent premium cotton they can be a bit tight at first, but once they’re broken in, they feel like a second skin. Plus, unlike many jean shorts, they offer a considerable amount of stretch, so you won’t feel constricted while wearing them. While Madewell offers a variety of plus-size short styles, this specific option is only available in a light wash. It would be great to see them expand the options to fit a wider range of style preferences.
Price at time of publish: $88
Size: 14W–26W | Washes: 1 | Details: Belt loops, button fly, five pockets
Best Colored: BlankNYC Garnet Dyed Mom Shorts
What We Love: Every time we wear these we get an instant dopamine boost thanks to the bright bubblegum hue. What We Don’t Love: It’s best to hand wash these shorts so the color doesn’t fade.
Sitting high on the waist in a hot pink wash, BlankNYC's jean shorts prove that denim doesn’t have to be boring. “I feel like Barbie when I wear these,” says InStyle commerce editor, Mary Honkus. “They cinch in my waist without feeling too snug, and I love that the legs are baggier. I can walk in these shorts for hours without them riding up or feeling uncomfortable.”
Incorporating color into your wardrobe can feel like a challenge, but these shorts make it easy because they’re such a statement piece. We style them with a white tank top and neutral sandals for a casual look. For a bold, joy-inducing ensemble that plays into the Barbiecore trend, pair the piece with fuschia sandals and a baby pink purse. We recommend hand-washing the item — though they are machine-washable — to ensure the punchy pink hue stays vibrant.
Price at time of publish: $78
Size: 24–31 | Wash: 1 | Details: Belt loops, zip fly, five pockets, hemmed cuffs
Best Long: Anine Bing Kat Short
What We Love: These shorts are extremely versatile, making them easy to dress up or down. What We Don’t Love: Because they’re made with rigid denim, they require a break in period.
While Daisy Dukes and hot pants ruled the early 2000s, more conservative bermuda shorts are having their moment in the limelight, and our editors can’t get enough of these longer styles, particularly this one from Anine Bing that’s constructed with a six-inch inseam. “I refuse to wear short shorts ever again after discovering how much more comfortable I am in Bermuda denim options,” says InStyle writer, Madison Barber. “I recently invested in the Kat Short — it’s made from rigid denim that looks elevated, yet the looser fit in the legs and longer inseam give it a relaxed vibe. Plus, the wash is perfect and goes with every top in my closet.”
Keep in mind that this denim isn’t stretchy, so it can take some time before the shorts mold to your body. After three or four wears they loosen up a bit and feel like they were custom-made for your curves. Although they’re a bit more expensive than our best splurge, we understand that longer styles aren’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a more modest option, these are definitely worth the money.
Price at time of publish: $180
Size: 23–32 | Wash: 1 | Details: Belt loops, zip fly, five pockets, raw-edge hem
Best Petite: Gap 5” Mid Rise Denim Girlfriend Shorts
What We Love: Each wash features unique styling details, including patchwork pockets and dainty distress marks. What We Don’t Love: The denim is much thinner than other options on our list.
When you’re petite, finding a pair of denim shorts can take a lot of trial and error: Half of them are too long, and the other half are too short. This pick from Gap solves the Goldilocks-like conundrum — they’re just right. The five-inch inseam sits right along the upper-mid thigh, so it won’t appear like you’re swimming in the shorts, but they’re not too modest either. The denim fabric on this pair doesn’t feel quite as thick as other options on our list, meaning that they may not be super durable — although the less rigid feel certainly makes them more comfortable off the bat.
There are four washes to choose from — light indigo, medium, medium indigo, and black — but the style details differ between the wash options. The medium wash has the flashiest details, with a gold button fly and patchwork pockets sewn along the front. But the other washes are maybe less ornate: The light indigo features small-scale distressing for a more worn-in look, while the medium indigo and black pairs feature cuffed hems that give off an all-American vibe. With such unique elements, selecting just one style can be a challenge. Luckily, the affordable price won’t make you feel guilty if you decide to buy all four.
Price at time of publish: $60
Size: 24–30 | Wash: 4 | Details: Belt loops, five pockets, zip or button fly (depending on wash), cuffed or frayed hem (depending on wash)
Best High-Waisted: Everlane The A-Line Denim Short
What We Love: Not quite bermuda shorts or booty shorts, these sit nicely on the upper-mid thigh. What We Don’t Love: They run slightly big.
Classic high-waisted jean shorts will never go out of style, which is why we recommend investing in a solid pair. For high-quality denim, we expect to pay over $100 (even for shorts), but we were pleasantly surprised by the price of this pick from Everlane considering the craftsmanship and structure. Though there’s no stretch to them, the bottoms quickly morphed to our body, and they’ve lasted us through countless summer seasons.
“I’ve affectionately deemed these my ‘weekend shorts’ because once the temperature stays above 70 degrees, I slip into them after work on Friday and wear them until Sunday evening,” says InStyle writer Irene Richardson. “They're comfy enough to trot all around town in, but I always feel put together thanks to the structured A-line silhouette and more modest length (I'm five-foot-seven and they stop just above my mid-thigh).”
The one downfall of the A-line style is the sizing. The waistband is prone to gapping, so for the best fit possible we recommend selecting one size down from what you usually wear.
Price at time of publish: $68
Size: 23–33 | Wash: 4 | Details: Belt loops, zip fly, five pockets
Most Comfortable: Abercrombie High Rise 4 Inch Mom Short
What We Love: Along with regular sizing, Abercrombie offers a Curve Love collection for those who need extra room in the hips. What We Don’t Love: Although the brand offers countless jean short washes in other styles, this specific silhouette only comes in three.
When we think of our most comfortable clothing, jean shorts usually don’t come to mind, but InStyle’s Senior Commerce Editor Shannon Bauer says she could live in these shorts no problem (and she actually does every summer). “I have a ‘size chart accurate’-sized waist and a blessed hips and butt region, which makes jeans and shorts shopping my least favorite activity. These offer just enough stretch to be extremely comfortable, but not so much that they don’t have structure (or change size throughout the day).”
We should note that this pair of jean shorts is only available in three washes, while most other styles from Abercrombie offer as many as 10 different colorways. However, we really appreciate the modest four-inch inseam that prevents any embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions. If you’re curvier and need more room in the hips and thighs, this specific silhouette also comes in a Curve Love style, though Bauer mentions that the regular option fits her body perfectly, so you may not need the extra room either.
Price at time of publish: $60
Size: 24–37 | Wash: 3 | Details: Belt loops, zip fly, five pockets, split-vent hem
Best White: Levi’s 80s Mom Shorts in White
What We Love: The fabric is thick and opaque, so you won’t experience any wardrobe malfunctions. What We Don’t Love: As with all white clothing, these require a bit of upkeep to ensure they stay crisp.
Finding a pair of sturdy, non-see-through white shorts is no small feat, but these Levi’s prove it’s not impossible. “After an embarrassing underwear incident, white shorts have terrified me — but I appreciate how thick and opaque this fabric is,” says Richardson of this rigid pair of shorts. Heavy fabric aside, it also helps that the style isn’t skin tight. Unlike the Levi’s Authorized Vintage 501 Shorts that are shorter and body-hugging, these hang loose along our thighs (in true mom jean fashion), while fitting true to size around the waist. They maintain their shape with time, too. And you can guarantee they’ll look crisp for years to come if you appropriately care for them. Be sure to wash them on cold and don’t mix with colors to keep them in pristine condition.
Price at time of publish: $80
Size: 23–33 | Wash: 6 | Details: Belt loops, zip fly, five pockets
Best Black: Free People Ivy Cutoff Denim Shorts
What We Love: The rich black color stays vibrant through many washes. What We Don’t Love: These have a straight fit so they can pinch curvier figures at the thighs and hips.
While blue jean shorts are a tried-and-true warm weather staple, we don’t think any wardrobe is complete without a pair of black denim shorts. Think about it: A pair of high quality jean shorts in a black hue can be styled for nearly any event. Black denim can add an edgy vibe for an outdoor concert or it can be dressed up just as easily for a night out.
With their adaptability, we find ourselves wearing black denim often, which can result in the color fading quickly, but this pair from Free People retains its jet black hue through endless washes and wears, a key feature that helped it land a spot on our list.
As for style, the relaxed fit sits right below the belly button. The legs are a bit baggier, and the frayed hem gives the shorts a lived in feel from the first wear. The straight design and lack of stretch in the shorts makes them a lot less forgiving to those with curvier figures — sizing up can relieve pinching along the waist and hips, but can result in waist gapping. For the perfect fit, these shorts may require custom tailoring.
Price at time of publish: $68
Size: 24–32 | Wash: 1 | Details: Belt loops, button fly, five pockets, frayed hem
Best Hot Pants: True Religion Joey Low Rise Short
What We Love: Rather than a traditional zipper fly, these shorts feature unique lace-up fly detailing. What We Don’t Love: Women’s jean shorts rarely have ample pocket space, but you’ll be lucky if you can store lip gloss or even your keys in this tiny pair.
It just wouldn’t be a jean shorts round-up without including a pair of Daisy Dukes, and the beloved denim brand, True Religion, has the best pair in the game. Instantly recognizable, thanks to the iconic pocket detail with bright gold stitching, this micro pair is crafted with a two-inch inseam, frayed hem, and has plenty of stretch for a signature slim fit that will hug you in all the right places to accentuate your curves. Another minor detail that amps up the style factor? Instead of a regular zipper or button fly, these feature a snazzy lace up front that we haven’t seen on any other shorts. For a flirty, attention-grabbing look, pair them with a fun going out top and cowboy boots.
Price at time of publish: $65 (originally $129)
Size: 22–38 | Wash: 1 | Details: Gold stitching, lace up fly, back flap pockets, frayed hem
Our Testing Process
In order to find the best denim shorts, we started by researching the best-sellers, the tried-and-true legends, and the buzzy newcomers. Then, our team of InStyle editors tested dozens of popular options. To evaluate each product’s comfort, construction, and versatility, we wore most of the shorts listed here at least three times. We took detailed notes on technical design attributes, including the size range to prioritize picks with extended options, fit (making sure to include both body hugging and baggier silhouettes), and wash selections. Once we felt confident in our picks, we tapped fashion pros for their recommendations and scoured online reviews to bring you a well-rounded list that will flatter every body type and satisfy countless style preferences.
What to Keep in Mind
Length
From booty to Bermuda, jean shorts come in an array of lengths — and unlike most clothing items, every iteration stands the test of time. For ultimate wearability, the classic mid-rise, mid-length silhouette (like our overall pick Levi’s Authorized Vintage 501 Shorts) is your best bet as the styling options are endless, and they suit all body shapes.
Plus-size model Kara Johnson prefers hot pants but suggests going a size up for a more comfortable fit. “You’ll want some extra room in the leg,” she says. The Bermuda short is by far the trickiest length to master as it needs to hit just above the knee, so petite and tall girls alike should opt for height-specific styles that’ll cater to their shape — Gap and H&M are great places to shop because they offer petite and tall options. For a longer style that meets somewhere in the middle, we like the Anine Bing Kat Short.
Wash
Bleached and black washes are timeless, but that’s not to say colorful versions (like BlankNYC Garnet Dyed Mom Shorts) should be ignored — especially when there are so many fun options and mood-boosting shades to explore. That faded worn-in look of denim undoubtedly lends a certain charm, but color-saturated styles are best when the color is vivid, so use a color-protective detergent when you do wash them.
Our experts also agree that the classic light blue hue is a wardrobe failsafe, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any wash.
Silhouette
Silhouette is totally a personal preference — you should choose something that matches your style and you see yourself wearing for years to come. As writer and vintage fashion aficionado Natalie Hughes notes, a high-rise pair with a slightly flared leg is an enduring style, and, what’s more, it suits all shapes. Each of our experts endorse the Levi’s Authorized Vintage 501 Shorts, which is a testament to their universal appeal and versatility. If you want a longer silhouette, like Bermuda, try sizing up because the style tends to be a bit constricting.
Your Questions, Answered
How do you prevent jean shorts from fraying too much?
It’s ironic that a material famed for its hardness — it was specially made in 18th-century France to be tear-proof — is most popular today with distressed or frayed hems. Achieving that covetable worn-in look isn’t without its compromises, though, as anyone who’s ever had their outfit unraveled by a rogue nail or door handle can attest.
“I’ve heard of people using clear nail polish to stop denim from continuing to fray, but I would say just treat them with care. Hand wash or use a gentle cycle,” says Power. Her key advice, though? Avoid the dryer. “You can also use a plastic clip to clip the ends together when washing, which will prevent them from fraying more,” she adds.
How do you style jean shorts?
There are endless ways to style jean shorts — from keeping it casual with a t-shirt and white sneakers, to dressing them up with heels and a blouse for a night out. Power, who has lived through many New York City heatwaves, recommends wearing jean shorts with a loose linen button-down over a crop top or ’90s-style workout top in the summer. This look is a favorite amongst celebrities and exudes a laid back attitude.
As for Johnson, she says that opposites attract. “When wearing fitted bottoms, opt for a looser top. When wearing loose-fitting bottoms, pair them with a more fitted top — it's all about balance,” she says.
Ultimately, what’s key here is getting the fit right, which, as plus-size stylist and artist Jamie Hamilton acknowledges, is easier said than done. Sometimes sizing up is the best thing to do — even if that means the shorts are a bit baggy in the waist. To fix this, she suggests adding a vintage belt. “I like gold metal belts with hidden stretch,” she says.
Hamilton also advises putting the button through the belt loop before buttoning the shorts. “No-sew buttons are also a simple fix to make the waist of the shorts fit tighter or looser. This is such an easy solution that I wish I had always known about.”
Why Shop With Us
Mischa Smith is a freelance commerce writer for InStyle, where she covers fashion, drawing on her experience as a womenswear editor at luxury retailer Harvey Nichols where she profiled designers and covered global fashion weeks. Along with help from writer Lauren Harano and InStyle’s Commerce Editor, Mary Honkus, Smith interviewed Liz Power, owner of Awoke Vintage in Brooklyn; plus-size model Kara Johnson; writer and vintage fashion aficionado Natalie Hughes; and plus-size stylist and artist Jamie Hamilton to find the best denim shorts for every style and body type.
Related: The 9 Best Non-Denim Shorts of 2023
For more InStyle news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!
Read the original article on InStyle.
