Shorts: a polarizing topic, come the annual summer solstice.Something about shorter hemlines adds an undeniable stress to the sartorial equation. And it all depends on how game you are for the trending styles of the season. Bermuda shorts—are they chic or cheugy? Can you wear boxer shorts to the grocery store? Are cargo shorts in style? And don’t even get us started on the hotly contested "jort.” Once past the trending elements at the categorical level, we investigate silhouette, material, and color. There’s denim shorts, linen shorts, tailored shorts, athletic shorts, and so much more. Overwhelmed? Fear not, for we’ve rounded up our favorite pairs of women’s shorts to add to your cart just in time for summer.
Denim Shorts
501 High Rise Women's Shorts
When it comes to Levi’s, we embrace an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” sort of approach. A pair of Levi’s 501 cutoffs are a safe investment; we’re sure you’ll be wearing these high-rise denim shorts for years to come.
Ames in Classic Blue
High-rise denim shorts with an elastic waistband? Say less. We’re currently coveting the wide leg of Still Here’s Ames shorts, specifically in their classic blue wash.
Parker Long Short
Agolde is another power player in the realm of women’s denim shorts. Their Parker long short offers a relaxed high-rise and a substantial inseam—perfect for your everyday summer shorts.
Extra Fold Lyocell Shorts
Denim shorts can be tricky when the silhouette is too slim. Raey’s pleating details give you more room in the leg while adding a level of tailoring you wouldn’t find on your traditional jorts. The mid-rise shorts exude quiet luxury.
Blue Bermuda Denim Shorts
If you’re willing to test out bermuda shorts this summer, we suggest a baggier silhouette like these high-rise denim shorts from Frame. Add a sweatshirt and ballet flats and you’re ready to hit the streets.
Tailored Shorts
Parlour Cotton Twill Shorts
A pair of tailored white twill shorts is a staple no matter the year. Merlette’s Parlour pair is a solid high-rise option thanks to the no-frills silhouette.
100% Linen Bermudas with Cuffs
Benetton’s linen shorts tick so many boxes. The long hemline of the cuffed shorts is appropriate for most settings, the camel color feels modern, and, the best part of all, the Bermuda shorts boast an elastic high-rise waistband.
Drapey High-waisted Shorts
Ganni’s pleated black shorts are perfect for a professional outing on a hot day. Add a black tank and pearl necklace and you have a look that can transition effortlessly from dinner to drinks.
The Adventure Pleated Short
Khaki shorts are another summer wardrobe staple. Embrace the yuppie energy and pair yours with a pastel pink button-down and loafers.
Technical Blend Mini Skirt Shorts
Sacai embraces the skort in this deconstructed mash-up of a pleated skirt and khaki shorts. We guarantee you’ll be the coolest person on the subway in these babies. The interesting layering fakes a low-rise silhouette, though you’re actually much more secure.
Leisure Shorts
Winter Garden Embroidered Rugby Shorts
For those willing to make the investment, Bode’s rugby shorts are always a solid bet. The floral embroidery on this pair of pull-on shorts calls for brown leather fisherman sandals as a compliment.
Kaia Kaleidoscope Applique Cotton-blend Shorts
If you’re looking to add a little pizazz to your everyday shorts rotation, opt for Sea’s mid-rise drawstring shorts. The kaleidoscope pattern will inject a bit of fun into any simple warm-weather ensemble.
Cotton Easy Shorts
Uniqlo’s “easy” cotton shorts are likely the most affordable on this list. In addition to the elastic waist, the pull-on style boasts an olive green hue perfect for everyday wear.
White Household Shorts
We love the pajama-like feel of Marine Serre’s “household” style—the shorts equivalent of a slip skirt. The lace trim adds the perfect feminine addition to the ultra-casual effect.
End on End Cotton Boxer Short
We plan on wearing J.Crew’s striped boxers all over the city this summer, whether or not that’s what they were intended for. Not to mention, what could make a better swim cover-up?
Utility Shorts
Tiro 23 League Shorts
We love the idea of mixing a pair of Adidas running shorts in with your typical summer staples—think a shrunken tee and a pair of loafers.
Women’s Barely Baggies Shorts
A pair of Patagonia baggies is a foolproof summer staple year after year, and we particularly love the shorter inseam of this one. Add a linen button-down to these pull-on shorts and you’re off to the beach.
The Utility Short
Zara is convincing us to hop aboard the cargo shorts train with their Bermuda shorts. The cargo-style pockets and oversized silhouette call for a slinky top to offset the utility factor.
Relaxed-fit Super HR Cargo
Are they cargo shorts? Are they activewear? We’re not sure nor do we care. This cross between utility shorts and tailored bottoms will work with anything from a t-shirt to a pressed button-down.
Colin Khaki Shorts
Somewhere between the realms of utility and formality lies Staud’s drawstring shorts. The satin finish elevates the pleated silhouette while the bungee-style waistband keeps them feeling fresh.