The 21 best jean shorts, according to stylists
Content is created by CNN Underscored’s team of editors who work independently from the CNN newsroom. When you buy through links on our site, CNN and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Learn more
Summer will be here before we know it and jean shorts should be at the very top of your summer fashion checklist. These seasonal must-have clothes are the cornerstone of any great warm-weather wardrobe due to their versatility, durability and timelessness.
“Jean shorts are always a smart investment to make,” says professional stylist Xie Antonio. “These pieces can easily go from day to night, they keep you cool on summer days and as the decades have shown, denim never goes out of style.”
Over the years, new denim trends have emerged, but classic cutoffs still hold strong. That said, if you want something a bit more of-the-times, New York-based professional stylist Nejla Renee mentions that exaggerated silhouettes are hot right now. “Think baggy shorts, longer hemlines and cargo pockets,” she says. She does echo that more traditional styles that feature high-rise waists and polished tailoring are more versatile and wearable.
Because jean shorts are such an adaptable piece, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to styling them. “It all depends on your personal preferences,” says Renee. “I highly recommend doing the work to find your personal style because that is the biggest influence when deciding what you’ll pair with your jean shorts.”
Still, if you need a little guidance, Renee says you can never go wrong with a T-shirt, lightweight sneakers and sunglasses for a casual vibe. “You can even go for a striped tee to channel your inner Parisian!” For dressier occasions, she suggests wearing longer tailored shorts with black loafers, white crew socks and an oversized blazer over a tank top. “You can also just as easily pair jorts (as I lovingly refer to jean shorts) with sleek sandals and a flowy blouse for a more sophisticated look,” she says.
Regardless of how you decide to style your jean shorts, the first step is owning a pair (or two). With the help of stylists, we compiled the best denim shorts of the season. The following options include a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a piece that you’ll come back to time and time again over the next decade or something uber trendy.
Our experts’ favorite denim shorts
Re/Done The Short
“This pick from Re/Done features every detail I imagine in the perfect mid-rise denim shorts,” says Renee. “The inseam isn't too short or too long, and the relaxed fit makes them the ultimate summertime staple.” Plus, the distressed hem adds a timelessness that will never go out of style. While these are a bit of a splurge, you can feel good knowing they’re constructed from vintage Levi’s, so you’re giving an old pair of jeans new life.
Everlane The A-Line Denim Short
Antonio always suggests adding a pair of dark-wash denim shorts to your closet because, “The richness in color gives a more dressed-up vibe, so you can easily transition from day to night.” She often recommends the Storm Black Everlane style to clients, not just for the color, but also because of the flattering A-line silhouette that cinches your waistline. If you love the design (which she’s pretty sure you will) you can also get them in a light or medium wash as well as white.
Dynamite Claudia Mom Denim Shorts
These relaxed cutoffs are a favorite of Underscored associate beauty editor Sophie Shaw. She’s spent two summers in the same pair, which have a semi-distressed look that only gets better. The high-rise waist is flattering, as well as the not too short and not too tight “mom” fit.
Levi's Women's 501 Original Shorts
“Levi's denim shorts are a quintessential classic,” says Ashley Afriyie, professional stylist and fashion brand consultant. “The 501s are one of my all-time favorites for the distressed look and high-waist fit. I like styling them with a ribbed tank or cropped T-shirt for a relaxed and easy summer look.”
Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High-Rise Mom Short
Denim isn’t the most forgiving fabric for curvier girls. More often than not, I’ve had to size up to fit shorts over my rear but then have to deal with an annoying waist gap. Abercrombie came up with a genius solution to this dilemma with its Curve Love collection. These designs feature an additional two inches of fabric through the hip and thigh for a glove-like fit. I now own about five pairs, and not only because of the fit — the price is also pretty unbeatable!
Universal Thread High-Rise Denim Cargo Shorts
Late ‘90s and early 2000s trends have been resurfacing for some time now, and one of the latest styles to reclaim the spotlight is cargo shorts. This affordable pair brings the utilitarian elements — aka the functional flapped pockets — into the present with a tailored high-rise silhouette and relaxed fit. They're available in sizes 0 to 30, so everyone can experiment with the trend.
Best denim shorts under $50
Mango High-Rise Denim Shorts
When you’re on a budget, Renee suggests Mango. “The brand actually has great low-priced denim,” she explains. Her top pick? This classic design. The high rise and mid-blue wash have everlasting appeal, so even though denim trends ebb and flow, these will never go out of style.
Asos Design Denim Bermuda Short
Following every trend can be an expensive habit, but you don’t have to drop a ton of money to get in on this year’s Bermuda short trend. “This Asos style is a low-cost way to try out Bermuda shorts,” says Renee. At just $40, these are incredibly accessible, Plus, the light wash and relaxed fit put these in a realm far away from dad jorts.
And Now This High-Rise Pleat-Front Denim Shorts
“High-waisted denim silhouettes are more refined and polished than other styles,” Antonio says. “I consider them a true wardrobe staple because they’re universally flattering for any body type.” She calls this option a “personal favorite” due to the elegant pleats, wide hem and waist-cinching closure. You can either dress up this pair with a nice blouse and heels or keep things casual with a tank and white sneakers.
Cotton On High Rise Classic Stretch Denim Shorts
Blue denim may be standard, but Antonio emphasizes that black shorts are just as much of a necessity in your wardrobe due to their flexibility. “I’d wear these with a tweed jacket and matching slingbacks for a très chic Parisian vibe,” she says. “Or you could go an urban-cool route by wearing a cotton tee with a motorcycle or varsity jacket.” This particular pair from Cotton-On offers a bit of give, making them a bit more comfortable than other options.
Old Navy High-Waisted OG Jean Shorts
Word of advice from Afriye: Don't sleep on Old Navy. “They offer great quality shorts,” she says. Compared to other brands, Old Navy is one of the most size-inclusive companies, with this specific pair of shorts going from a 0 up to size 30. “For someone who might not want short shorts, these Bermuda shorts are the perfect length, especially if you’re self-conscious about showing your legs. Try pairing them with a button-up shirt, loose top or cropped tank.”
Best denim shorts under $100
Levi’s 501 High-Waist Rolled Denim Shorts
For a breezy all-American look, Renee says you can’t go wrong with these Levi’s. “They’re simply a classic.” While these shorts feature the same high-rise fit of the original 501s featured above, the rolled hem gives this style a polished yet relaxed appearance that you won’t find with cutoffs.
Anthropologie Pilcro Skirty Denim Shorts
Shorts styles have come a long way from the skin-tight bottoms that used to rule the summer. The wide-legged, skirt-esque vibe gives this pair a boost of femininity that Antonio loves. “I’d pair these with a white tee, oversized blazer, buckled belt, ankle socks and loafers — talk about a warm weather uniform,” she says. “For an easy travel look, style these with a chambray shirt and sandals.”
Aritzia The ‘90s Cindy Bermuda Denim Short
“Bermudas are back! Hard to believe but this is what the cool kids are wearing nowadays,” Antonio says. She says that the relaxed fit and length of this Aritzia style look incredible on both athletic and pear-shaped bodies because it balances out your top half. “Sport retro sneakers or vintage mules with these for that cool nonchalant '90’s aesthetic. Regardless of what you pair with these, though, you’ll exude a laid-back street style vibe.”
BlankNYC Cutoff Denim Shorts
BlankNYC consistently constructs comfortable and stylish denim pieces that have become foundational in my summer wardrobe. If you’re after a black pair of shorts to round out your collection, I can’t recommend this style enough. The A-line silhouette beautifully flatters all figures thanks to a mix of smart elements like the high-rise fit that accentuates your waist, along with the wide-legged bottom that doesn't constrict your thighs. A touch of distressing also gives the shorts an effortless energy that can be worn from day to night.
Madewell Denim Pull-On Paperbag Shorts
If you like to prioritize comfort over everything, these pull-on denim shorts were made for you. An elevated twist on your traditional linen paperbag shorts, this denim version features an elastic waistband that offers a bit more flexibility without compromising on style. Small details like the ruched waist, vertical seams and oversized pockets make these equal parts functional and fashionable. When it comes to styling, the options are seemingly endless. Try pairing them with a simple tank top or button-down for beach vacations and lazy days in the park.
Best denim shorts under $200
Agolde Parker Vintage Cut-Off Shorts
Renee says that Agolde sets the standard for high-quality denim, and she constantly recommends this style to her clients who are looking for light wash cutoffs. While the shorts are non-stretch, they mold to your body shape with each wear. After a few weeks they begin to feel like they were made specially for you, making them a cornerstone in any summer wardrobe.
Grlfrnd Kyla Two-Tone Hot Short
“Hot pants may mostly be spotted on runways or at music festivals, but they’re amazing for showing off legs — lots of legs,” says Antonio. “Although they may not be for everyone, don’t get intimidated by the short length because they’re great for apple shapes and those with athletic builds; if you’ve got it, flaunt it!” She particularly loves this two-toned pair that’s playful and extremely wearable. “I love to juxtapose proportions by pairing hot pants with a boxy shirt or jacket with combat ankle boots. You could also try billowy tops and western boots for a bohemian flair.”
Good American Good Girlfriend Mid-Rise Denim Shorts
“Good American denim is extremely well made, and of course their extended sizing gives them a leg up,” says Afriyie. This mid-rise pair extends from a size 00 to 24, and compared to other shorts, will conform and move with your body so you never feel like they’re digging in. “I love the ‘90s vibe of these — I’d pair them with just a vintage tee,” she says. “This provides a relaxed look that doesn’t need any additional elements.”
Paige Dani Short
A crisp pair of white denim shorts rounds out any summer wardrobe. This style from Paige melds vintage aspects (like the classic high-rise cut and wider A-line silhouette) with modern distressed detailing. The four-inch inseam gives these an elegant touch, too — they’re not so short that you’ll experience any wardrobe malfunctions but still have an airy feel to them. Pair them with a Breton striped shirt and white sneakers for a preppy feel.
Frame Le Grand Garcon High-Waist Denim Shorts
Out of all the rises, Afriyie mentioned that high-waisted shorts are the most flattering for a range of body types — from hourglass and pear to petite and plus size. “These shorts were designed to showcase your legs, but they’re also great for someone who is a bit self-conscious of their mid section because these styles cover your tummy.” This Frame style plays into the looser-fitting trends with the baggier silhouette, though what makes these stand out are the angled leg holes that help you appear a tad bit taller.
Note: The prices above reflect the retailers' listed price at the time of publication.
For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
