Shorts are legitimately one of my least favorite things to both wear and shop for. I’ve shared before that I was criticized growing up for being really thin and having ‘chicken legs’ so wearing shorts just made me feel like everyone was looking at me in disgust. It’s terrible what kids will say to each other, isn’t it? Needless to say, I embraced jeans even in the heat of the summer and, in recent years, I’ve become increasingly familiar with which brands suit me best, as I think we all do. I’ve also come to embrace how God has made me so much more and am better about wearing shorts and not thinking twice about it! So, in my mind, when I’m shopping for shorts, it should be just like shopping for jeans. If a brand makes jeans that typically suit my frame well, then their shorts are likely to fit the same, right?
Um, no.
I’ve learned that that’s not the case and shorts are a completely different beast. So, I thought a post sharing my insights into some of the seasons cutest shorts might be helpful. Obviously, everyone is different and has different tastes so there’s no way this can be comprehensive. There are some denim brands, like One Teaspoon, that I think have a variety of flattering denim shorts available but they run so big that they just don’t fit me. However, the shorts that are included in today’s post are exceptional. I’ve done my best to give you a variety of styles to suit everyone’s taste but I did stay true to the shorts that genuinely impressed me out of the over 30 pairs of on-trend shorts that I purchased to try out for this post.
For this review post, go into it knowing that each one of these shorts already have my stamp of approval. I just wanted to feature multiple to give y’all some variety. I will say – I tend to gravitate toward cut-off’s and I truly just purchased a bunch of shorts that stood out to me. I apologize if the style of shorts you’re looking for in particular are not represented. Anyway, I’ll give you some thoughts on each one, share the rise of the short, what size I got, how they run and overall fit.
For reference, I normally wear a 24 in denim but, I’ve learned that if if a 23 is available, that’s what I should order because it likely means that brand runs big or their 23 IS their size 24, if that makes sense. So, keep that in mind when you read through.
J.CREW MIDRISE WHITE DENIM SHORTS
Although not entirely clean cut, in my opinion, these white shorts from J.Crew did drawn me in because they were a little more ‘put together’ than the other pairs that I had previously put in my cart. I am still looking for that really dressy pair. These would still be deemed as ‘casual’, in my opinion, but impressive in quality, size and fit. They have a 4″ inseam, making them appropriate to wear around without worrying about anything inappropriate hanging out. The material is a bit stretchy but they hug your frame perfectly and don’t stretch out with wear. They are a mid-rise, in my opinion, and perfectly priced at $70 – and currently up to 40% off with code NEWNEW.
Here are some photos to give you a better look at them:
WEARING: 23 | RUNS: BIG; SIZE DOWN
RISE: HIGH | FIT: NORMAL
LENGTH: 11″ | INSEAM: 4″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
AG ‘BRYN’ EX-BOYFRIEND CUT-OFF SHORTS
These high-rise cut-off shorts are a little more loose-fitting and rough around the edges with it’s sporadic distressing. They fit snug around the waist but inseam doesn’t hug your body and starts about an inch lower than it would if they did. [I hope that makes sense!] The brand’s sizing starts at 23 so I sized down from my normal 24, assuming they will fit like a 24 and they do so go one size down from your normal on these! The material is a medium thickness denim and you most certainly cannot see through them.
Here are some photos to give you a better look at them:
WEARING: 23 | RUNS: BIG; ORDER ONE SIZE DOWN
RISE: HIGH | FIT: LOOSE
LENGTH: 11″ | INSEAM: 2.5″
** NOTE: I measured the length and inseam myself on this pair because there were conflicting measurements across different sites that carry these shorts so I did my best to share what was most accurate to help you make an informed decision. I can’t give you any more insight on the length or inseam than what is here and I do apologize for that. **
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
7 FOR ALL MANKIND CUTOFF DENIM SHORTS
With an edgy frayed hem, these cutoff shorts are comfortable and classic. These are not as loose as the pair mentioned directly above this pair. They have a relaxed form fit and you should go one size down from your normal.
Here are some photos to give you a better look at them:
WEARING: 23 | RUNS: BIG, ORDER ONE SIZE DOWN FROM YOUR NORMAL
RISE: MID-RISE | FIT: RELAXED
LENGTH: 10″ | INSEAM: 2 3/4″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
FREE PEOPLE ‘LOVING GOOD VIBRATIONS’ SHORT • [WASH: SOMERSET]
If you’re looking for a pair of loose-fitting, distressed denim cut-off’s, these are the absolute perfect pair under $70! For Spring & Summer, these shorts will give you a classic all-American look and are easy to throw on and off for your everyday errands or pool days. They are a lightweight denim and fit low on the hip. I recommend purchasing your normal size.
Here are some photos to give you a better look at them:
WEARING: 24 | RUNS: TRUE TO SIZE
RISE: LOW | FIT: LOOSE
LENGTH: 11.75″ | INSEAM: 2.5″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
LOVERS + FRIENDS ‘JACK’ HIGH SHORT IN ‘WESTERLY WASH’
I bought this pair of distressed cutoff’s a couple of months ago and, over the last month, have been able to test these out during the long stretches of warm days and the verdict is in … I’m obsessed! This denim doesn’t have a lot of stretch so you literally have to squeeze in to them but the length and fit is perfection so don’t let the squeezing part deter you! The brand’s sizing starts at 23 so I sized down from my normal 24, assuming they will fit like a 24 and they do so go one size down from your normal on these! They’re a little on the shorter end with a length of 10.5″ and 2″ inseam, especially with the high waist, but [at least in my case] I’m still covered in the rear but, just beware of that.
Here are some photos to give you a better look at them:
WEARING: 23 | RUNS: BIG; GO ONE SIZE DOWN FROM YOUR NORMAL
RISE: HIGH | FIT: FORM-FITTING
LENGTH: 10.5″ | INSEAM: 2″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
HUDSON ‘KENZIE’ SHORTS
These relaxed cutoff’s sit low on the hips and are made of the softest denim material that stretches but fits perfectly secure at the waist. They’re easy to move around in and I never feel like they’re riding up or need to be straightened out at all. These have the same length and inseam as the shorts named just immediately above these but, because they’re low-waisted, they don’t feel as ‘short’. I never feel like I have to pull them down or readjust them. If you’re looking for a pair of shorts that will hug you perfectly but also not make you feel so confined, these are the shorts for you! They’re so comfortable!
Here are some photos to give you a better look at them:
WEARING: 23 | RUNS: BIG; ORDER ONE SIZE DOWN FROM NORMAL
RISE: LOW | FIT: RELAXED
LENGTH: 10.5″ | INSEAM: 2″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
LOVERS + FRIENDS ‘JACK’ HIGH SHORT IN ‘RAVENNA’
This next pair of distressed denim cut-off’s is the sister pair to THIS pair mentioned above. It’s just in a darker wash. I’m including it because it’s a good pair of shorts and obviously a lighter wash isn’t everyones cup of tea so I thought I’d highlight that this one is available in a darker wash and I totally bought them without realizing they were the same short as another pair I had already ordered.
So nice … I bought it twice!
Here are the details I wrote about the pair of shorts:
I bought this pair of distressed cutoff’s a couple of months ago and, over the last month, have been able to test these out during the long stretches of warm days and the verdict is in … I’m obsessed! This denim doesn’t have a lot of stretch so you literally have to squeeze in to them but the length and fit is perfection so don’t let the squeezing part deter you! The brand’s sizing starts at 23 so I sized down from my normal 24, assuming they will fit like a 24 and they do so go one size down from your normal on these! They’re a little on the shorter end with a length of 10.5″ and 2″ inseam, especially with the high waist, but [at least in my case] I’m still covered in the rear but, just beware of that.
Here are some photos of the shorts to give you a better look:
WEARING: 23 | RUNS: BIG; GO ONE SIZE DOWN FROM NORMAL
RISE: HIGH | FIT: FORM-FITTING
LENGTH: 10.5″ | INSEAM: 2″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
ENDLESS ROSE SIDE POCKET SHORTS
I bought these shorts back in January. They caught my eye for a few reasons. First, the color is absolutely stunning. Mauve is the most sophisticated pink shade, in my opinion. It allows you to simultaneously express your girly-ness and maturity as a woman. The silhouette is sophisticated. These shorts would be perfect for a nice event over the summer that takes place outside. Pair it with a nice cami like THIS one, under $20, or a blouse and add a pair of statement earrings and nice sandals, and you’ll be all set!
WEARING: XS | RUNS: TRUE TO SIZE
RISE: HIGH | FIT: LOOSE
LENGTH: 14″ | INSEAM: 2″
These are also only $60, so be sure to snag these while they’re still in stock!
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
DAVID LERNER WAIST-TIE SHORTS
I bought these shorts during the 24-hour Revolve sale to celebrate their 15th Anniversary last week. Y’all know my obsession with pink but it was the silky material and ruffle detail the made them too cute to pass up! In the months to come, on the days when I’m over denim shorts and I need or want to feel a little more dressed up, I knew these shorts would be a perfect pair to grab.
WEARING: XS | RUNS: TRUE TO SIZE
RISE: HIGH | FIT: LOOSE
LENGTH: 12″ | INSEAM: 3″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
TULAROSA ‘CLAIRE’ SHORTS
Okay, these shorts grabbed my attention immediately a few weeks ago! The form-fitting, high-waisted silhouette and bow detail offer a ladylike appeal perfect for family get togethers and even tailgates in the Fall!
WEARING: XXS | RUNS: BIG; SIZE DOWN
RISE: HIGH | FIT: NORMAL
LENGTH: 12″ | INSEAM: 1.5″
Here’s a sample outfit for how I’d style these shorts:
I realize that there’s quite a bit of time between now and the time a lot of you will be wearing shorts. However, I feel like now is the time to get a head start on your Spring and Summer wardrobe before the really good buys are gone! I hope that this post makes shopping for shorts a bit easier! Please let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below! Thanks for stopping by, lovelies! Have a great day! xo.
Updated 03/20/18 – I found two pairs of shorts that are so cute, although totally different stylistically to appeal to your varied interests, that are under $50, as I feel like I didn’t find you that many pairs within that under $50 budget bracket.
