There’s something about slipping into the perfect pair of women’s denim shorts that signals the true arrival of summer. Whether you’re chasing sun-drenched weekends or adding edge to a casual day look, the right fit, wash and cut can make all the difference.

This season, we scoured the racks. From cult-favorite labels to unexpected hidden gems, we were on a mission to find the best denim shorts for every body, style and occasion. Hey, there are even options you can wear to a family BBQ that aren’t too cheeky.

“Denim shorts first gained traction in the 1950s as casual wear for women during the postwar era, often cut from old jeans and worn for chores or outdoor play,” Jordan Stolch, personal stylist and founder of MiKADO, shared with Post Wanted. “They were modest and practical, with high waists and longer hems reflecting the conservative dress norms of the time. Now, you’ll see everything from oversized and slouchy to super-structured, with influences from every previous decade. Washes range from light vintage to dark, with styles embracing gender-fluid fits, sustainability and individuality as fashion becomes more inclusive and experimental.”

From effortlessly cool low-rise denim shorts that channel early-2000s nostalgia to the crisp sophistication of white denim shorts, our editorial team tried and tested dozens of pairs to bring you only the standouts. We researched bold denim booty shorts for festival flair, tried on coveted high-waisted denim shorts that cinch in all the right places and slouched into the comfort of baggy denim shorts that feel as relaxed as they look.

The variety doesn’t end there. For those craving coverage with a kick, we found long denim shorts that strike the perfect balance between polished and playful. We also paid close attention to inclusive sizing and standout fits — highlighting the most flattering plus size denim shorts, curve-loving mid-rise denim shorts and even ransacking the rack for stylishly supportive maternity denim shorts. And yes, for the fashion purists, we tracked down a few jaw-dropping designer denim shorts that are worth the splurge.

Consider this your guide to the best in denim — tailored, tried and tested for real-life wear.

The Abercrombie High Rise Dad Short is the kind of denim that is simply the most perfect pair of denim shorts. Still obsessing over them, years later.

With its vintage-inspired silhouette and a high-rise waist that cinches in just right, it pays homage to classic ’90s Americana while feeling entirely of the moment. Abercrombie has taken the universally flattering structure of a dad short and elevated it with tailored details, thoughtful distressing and a just-loose-enough leg opening that strikes the elusive balance between effortless and intentional.

Fit, of course, is everything. The High Rise Dad Short flatters a wide range of body types with its curve-enhancing cut and subtly structured denim that holds shape without feeling restrictive. The rise hits at the natural waist, elongating the leg line and allowing for easy tucking of anything from a ribbed tank to a boxy tee. And the length, which is long enough to offer coverage yet short enough to show some skin, is a masterclass in proportion. These are shorts that transition seamlessly from a casual brunch to an evening on the boardwalk, making them a true wardrobe anchor.

What I truly love about these shorts is their versatility. Available in a range of washes from lived-in light to inky dark, each pair offers a different styling opportunity, whether you’re pairing with cowboy boots for a country-leaning look or crisp sneakers for downtown minimalism. I’ll be living in them all summer long, BTW.

Size range: US 23 to 37 | Shade range: 7 colors

The LOFT Twill Palmer Shorts in butter yellow are a quiet revolution in summer dressing: soft-spoken, sun-drenched and effortlessly chic. This pair of denim shorts doesn’t shout for attention, but rather commands it with their subtle hue and crisp tailoring.

This isn’t your average denim short, either; it’s summer, softened. The butter yellow tone is just unexpected enough to feel elevated, like a scoop of lemon sorbet on a hot day: refreshing, refined and impossible to resist. LOFT has taken the easygoing vibe of a classic short and infused it with polish, proving that color can be both playful and poised. I’m beyond obsessed with these.

The shorts have an incredible fabric-meets-fit harmony about them, thanks to the twill denim that’s lightweight with a smooth, almost brushed texture (think: structure with a side of softness). The cut flatters without constraining, and the slightly wider leg opening gives a tailored silhouette without feeling stiff. The length is thoughtful as well, and I appreciate that it’s long enough to feel grown-up, yet short enough to stay flirty.

These are the shorts you throw on without a second thought, and somehow you look completely put together. I know we all love butter yellow, and that’s because it’s a shade that works like a neutral but feels like a statement. Pair it with crisp white linen for a look straight out of the South of France, or contrast it with deep navy for a nautical twist.

Size range: US 00 to 22 | Shade range: 9 colors

The We The Free Cali Cuffed Shorties are a great-fitting pair of shorts from a brand that’s known for its easy-breezy style. They speak fluent coastal ease, equal parts sun-kissed nostalgia and undone cool. With a cuff that looks like it’s been perfectly rolled and re-rolled over lazy summers past, and a mid-rise that hugs just right — neither too high, nor trying too hard — they deliver that elusive “woke up like this” energy.

These aren’t the shorts you keep pristine in your drawer, either. They’re the ones you toss into your beach bag, wear three days straight and somehow, they just keep getting better. I adore them.

Fit-wise, the Cali Cuffed Shorties are genius. The mid-rise is a love letter to comfort, sitting at the perfect point on my hips whenever I wear them. I can breathe easily but still feel pulled together. The cuffed hem offers a flash of leg without veering into too-much territory, and the relaxed cut means no awkward tugging or adjusting.

Plus, the denim has just enough give to feel like a second skin, but still holds its own; it’s the kind of fabric that knows when to soften and when to stay structured. Whether you’re dancing barefoot at a backyard party or sprawled in the passenger seat, they move with you. They’re not just flattering, they’re freeing (hence, We The Free hits the nail on the head).

But, perhaps the real magic of the Cali Cuffed Shorties is how they slip so easily into every version of your summer self. Throw them on with a vintage bikini top and sandals, and you’re giving chic Coastal Grandmother. Pair them with an oversized button-down and woven slides, and suddenly you’re strolling through an open-air market somewhere, effortlessly chic. They carry the whisper of freedom, the flirt of adventure and the certainty that you’ll never regret packing them.

Size range: US 24 to 33 | Shade range: 3 colors

The Pilcro Embroidered Pleated Denim Skirty Shorts are the denim equivalent of a love letter to summer. It’s giving romantic, unexpected and effortlessly cool.

With their low-rise waist and pleated front, they channel a vintage charm that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The intricate floral embroidery adds a touch of whimsy that I find ultra-unique, transforming these shorts from basic to standout. They’re truly a statement.

Crafted from a soft, breathable denim, these skirty shorts offer comfort without compromising on style. The pleats provide a flattering silhouette, gently skimming my hips and thighs, while the low-rise design adds a relaxed, laid-back vibe. Whether paired with a tucked-in blouse or a cropped tee, they effortlessly transition from day to night, making them one of the most versatile, too.

Styling these shorts is a breeze. For a casual daytime look, pair them with a simple tank top and sandals. To dress them up for an evening out, add a flowy blouse and heeled sandals. Though pricey, they’re a cute addition to your wardrobe, and one that’ll garner plenty of compliments.

Size range: US 23 to 34 | Shade range: 1 color

The AE Next Level High-Waisted Denim Short Short is designed with a high-rise waist and a “legs-for-days” fit, offering a flattering silhouette that embraces curves with confidence. The high-stretch denim is both comfy and stylish, so it’s certainly a go-to choice for those seeking both function and flair.

These shorts are sustainable as well, clad with the “Real Good” badge, signifying their eco-conscious make. The medium support and shape-holding fabric provide a secure fit, making this pair one you can move freely in. Our commerce writer/reporter Angela Tricarico adores the fit of these (FYI, she was raving about them on our Slack chat).

They’re also available in various washes, including Light Bright Indigo and Dark Rich Indigo, so they cater to your preference. For those seeking the perfect pair of plus-size denim shorts, these are a must-have addition.

Size range: US 000 to 20 | Shade range: 7 colors

The Levi’s 501 Original Fit High-Rise Shorts are the holy grail of denim done right. They’re timeless in cut, endlessly current in spirit, and, most importantly, available in a palette of shades that reads like a summer mood board.

From sun-washed pastels to deep indigos that feel like midnight in July, Levi’s offers a boatload to choose from.

“I enjoy wearing my Levi’s out during the hot summer heat,” Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce writer/reporter, shared. “Although they are snug, they make meet feel trendy and cool. Best when paired with some ankle boots and a cowboy hat.”

The silhouette is classic Levi’s: a high-rise waist that cinches like a dream, a relaxed leg that nods to vintage cuts without veering into costume and that signature button-fly detail (a wink to heritage, a nod to cool). The cotton is unapologetically structured and softens with time and wear. Whether you’re dressing them down with an oversized tee and scuffed sneakers or leaning into their retro roots with a fitted tank and stacked jewelry, the 501s carry you from golden hour to last call with an ease that feels instinctual.

Size range: US 23 to 34 | Shade range: 15 colors

The Madewell Harlow Superwide Jean Short is your summer power move disguised as denim. It’s everything you love about pleated trousers: tailored, confident and impossibly cool. Yet, it’s accomplished with feather-light cotton that feels like a breeze in fabric form.

The silhouette is bold in the best way, as it’s high at the waist, wide through the leg and finished with sharp pleats that say, “I’m polished and put-together.” Whether you’re strutting into brunch or just grabbing a lavender latte, these shorts give main-character energy without trying too hard. This is not your average cut-off; it’s the grown-up, glow-up version.

Let’s talk fit. The Harlow doesn’t hang but, instead, flows. The high-rise snatches my waist just enough, while the wide leg opens up like a fan, giving you room to move, breathe and turn heads. The pleats are doing the most in the chicest way — adding that tailored edge that takes you from street style to street smart. And, the fabric? Madewell’s Airy Denim lives up to its name. It’s soft, crisp and breathable (basically, the fashion equivalent of walking through a light breeze on a 78-degree day).

I love throwing it on with a slouchy tank and sandals, or with a silk blouse and a low heel to make me feel like a French-girl chic on holiday. In a sea of basic denim, the Harlow Superwide Jean Short stands tall (and wide), proving that bold can still be beautifully wearable.

Size range: US 23 to 33 | Shade range: 15 colors

After trying on countless denim shorts and speaking with a personal stylist, here’s all that I kept in mind for each pair to narrow down to the best ones on the market:

“Denim shorts are the quintessential summer staple: casual, cool and endlessly versatile,” Stolch said. “The right top can take them from beach days to rooftop cocktails.”

Ahead, here’s what Stolch recommends pairing with denim shorts:

To Dress Up Denim Shorts: The secret is in pairing them with more refined, statement-making pieces that elevate their casual nature.

“A satin camisole, a puff-sleeve blouse or a structured corset top can instantly elevate the look from laid-back to polished,” Stolch said. “Footwear choices like strappy sandals, block-heel mules, or sleek ankle boots add a sophisticated edge, while accessories like gold hoops, a mini handbag and a thin belt pull the look together.”

Opt for dark-wash or tailored high-rise shorts for a cleaner silhouette, and consider finishing with a structured blazer to define the look and create a more intentional, fashion-forward finish.

To Dress Down Denim Shorts: Lean into relaxed, easygoing pieces.

“Pair them with a vintage-inspired graphic tee, a classic ribbed tank, or a slouchy sweatshirt for an effortlessly laid-back look,” Stolch noted. “Footwear like chunky sneakers, sporty slides, or classic Birkenstocks keeps things simple and comfortable.”

Accessorize with canvas totes, retro sunglasses, and a baseball hat to complete the ensemble. For extra edge, opt for distressed or raw-hem shorts, and consider throwing on an oversized button-down or denim jacket to add a touch of edge or layered street style.

Light wash denim remains a warm-weather favorite. “Its laid-back, sun-faded nature pairs effortlessly with everything from crisp whites to bold colors,” Stolch tipped off. “This wash is especially popular in distressed or raw-hem cuts that feel perfectly lived-in.”

Meanwhile, medium blue washes are always popular, striking that perfect balance between vintage and modern. “This versatile wash works just as well with everything from graphic tees to blazers and structured tops,” she said.

Dark wash denim lends itself well to more formal styles, uniquely, and is now being embraced for its elevated edge. “Paired with tailored tops and minimal distressing, dark wash shorts are ideal for dressing up and transitioning from day to night,” Stolch said.

Very trendy this season is washed black and charcoal grey denim, too. “These moody tones give a cool, edgy vibe and are especially popular in boxy or longline silhouettes that feel a little grungier and more fashion-forward,” she explained.

Also trending are acid wash and stonewash finishes, which are getting a Gen Z-approved revival, especially in more exaggerated Y2K silhouettes. These washes bring a nostalgic, rebellious flair that’s being embraced in both street style and fast fashion.

Denim shorts don’t need to be washed as often as other summer staples like T-shirts and tank tops. In fact, over-washing can actually shorten their lifespan by breaking down the fibers and fading the color prematurely.

“For most people, washing denim shorts every 3 to 5 wears is plenty unless they’re visibly dirty, sweaty or have picked up an odor,” Stolch said. “Spot-cleaning small stains and airing them out between wears can help keep them fresh without a full wash.”

Pro tip: When it is time to launder them, turn them inside out, use cold water, and opt for air drying to preserve the fabric, color and shape.

Princess Polly: Known for its trend-forward pieces, Princess Polly offers denim shorts that cater to the Gen Z aesthetic—think high-cut hems, raw edges and festival-ready outfits.

Nordstrom Rack: A go-to for deals on premium brands, Nordstrom Rack is ideal for scoring quality denim shorts at a fraction of the price, with a wide variety of styles and washes.

Aritzia: Aritzia offers clean, minimal denim shorts with a luxe, elevated feel, perfect for those who want a polished, structured look with a cool-girl edge.

Aerie: With a focus on comfort and inclusivity, Aerie’s denim shorts feature soft fabrics, stretchy waistbands and body-positive sizing that’s made for real-life wear.

Vans: Best known for skate culture staples, Vans’ denim shorts appeal to the laid-back, effortlessly cool crowd, often featuring relaxed fits and vintage washes.

Hollister: A teen favorite, Hollister’s denim shorts are known for their flattering stretch, low-to-mid-rise fits, and beachy Southern California vibe.

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