If there’s any piece of clothing that feels like a necessary evil, it’s denim shorts. They have a reputation for riding up, giving wedgies, and all-around being a survival mechanism for the summer—but not always one we look forward to wearing.
While it can be hard to find a great pair of denim shorts, when you do, chances are, they’re going to live on your bottom half for all of summer. If they’re comfortable, the right looseness, and something you feel confident in rather than dread putting on, they’re the only pants you’ll need from May through September.
Our editors have shared the shorts that saved our denim-short search and are now sharing the details so you too can find the perfect pair. These shorts are as good as it gets.
I went years without finding a pair of denim shOrts that I truly love, and after debating shelling out $180 for the cult-favorite Agolde pair that I thought would answer my problems, I ordered these first—and thank God I did.
These are, dare I say, the most perfect denim shorts I’ve ever put on my body. They’re the perfect compromise of not being too short or Too long and the raw hem and crossed waist are too cool. Because my thighs tend to be muscular, I have struggled with jeans shorts. I feel that the fit is too tight and ends up feeling uncomfortable. With these, I don’t have that problem. They’re not too tight, not too loose, and overall just perfectly flattering. The best thing? They’re a fraction of the price of the Agolde ones but truly look and feel identical. These are my favorite finds of 2022 sofar.
I’ve always wanted to hop onto the longer-shorts trend but have struggled to find a pair that fit me right. If they’re too tight, they give middle-school bermuda shorts PTSD, so I gave up my search last summer. Alas, I found Abercrombie’s pair and decided to give them another shot.
These shorts are my absolute favorite. I know from experience with Abercrombie shorts that once I wear them, they’ll loosen up slightly, so while they’re a bit more fitted on my legs now, I know that’ll change when I wear them for a bit. I feel like the length adds a chicness that shorter shorts don’t have and they’re the perfect long short that doesn’t feel dated or weird and unflattering. These are the size up. I ordered both my regular size as well as a larger size. I would recommend going one size up if you want a looser fit.
– Madeline, Fashion Editor
I’ve had this relaxed-fit, light-wash pair of denim shorts for literally years and they have never gone out of style or done me wrong. They’re the perfect relaxed fit to wear over a bathing suit to the beach or turn into an OOTD with a silky button-up and kitten heels. They’re the perfect amount of structured and relaxed, and they’re slightly distressed for a trendier feel but not so distressed that you don’t want to wear them around your grandma (you know what I’m talking about). I’ve tried on dozens of other denim shorts, but none can compare to my perfect go-to pair.
These are on the shorter side, but they’re not so short that the bottom of my butt cheeks risk getting a glimpse of daylight. I’d buy these again and again.
– Josie, Wellness Editor
I first tried these ’90s shorts from Zara last year when we reviewed the most popular denim shorts on the internet, and I instantly fell in love. I bought them in May, and I’m not kidding when I say they were the Only pair of shorts I wore for the entirety of last summer—and I can’t wait to wear them all summer long again this year. They are truly the most comfortable pair of jean shorts I’ve ever owned. They’re a relaxed denim, the length is perfect (I’ve been loving longer shorts lately), and the fit is super flattering. Although they don’t have the frayed-hem style anymore, this year’s version is just as cute.
– Jess, Associate Editor
While I understand the importance of good, high-quality denim shorts, I’ve never been able to justify it. First, vintage options win every time. You can’t tell me you can find anything better than a pair of vintage Levi’s shorts. Second, I live in Chicago and work in an office a few times a week. A pair of jeans that I understand: I can wear them all year and to work. Denim shorts have never been a sensual splurge.
In my quest for inexpensive shorts last summer, I ordered a handful from H&M in all their different styles and washes, and I ended up wearing these the most. They’re not tight nor do they squeeze my legs, but they’re still flattering and hug my body where I want them to. These were perfect for wearing as a swim-cover-up or for last-minute happy hours. They will be worn again and again this summer, and I may even buy a few more washes.
– Beth, Editor
I ordered nine pairs last year of denim shorts and returned all but one pair. These are the essentials when shopping for denim pants: They must be flattering, provide a fair amount coverage, have a high-waisted silhouette and be very comfortable. These were the only pair that met my standard and they didn’t break the bank, which is an obvious win.
These have a great mom feel and are very comfortable. I love the rolled-up top, which instantly adds a vintage touch.
– Ashley, Branded Content Editor
Source: The Every Girl
