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Summer Shorts Review & Comparison

I’ve been teasing my summer shorts review for weeks, and it’s finally ready! This one is a doozy, you guys, so make sure you’re sitting down. I tried on over 20 pairs of shorts, and these are the results!

Summer Shorts Review & Comparison: I tried on over 20 pairs of shorts, and these are the results!

Shorts can be tricky, but in some areas of the country, they’re pretty much a necessity in the summer months, so I hope this post makes your quest for the perfect shorts a little bit easier.

Every woman’s body is different, so like with any other wardrobe item, figuring out what works best for you is the first step. If you aren’t sure, I recommend trying on a bunch of different styles and taking pictures of yourself in the mirror, much like I’m doing in this post. It really is very telling.

What to look for in a pair of shorts: 

Determine the length that looks best on you. I personally feel best in shorts with a 3 – 4″ inseam, but I know a lot of women prefer longer lengths. I tried all different lengths so you can compare.

Pay attention to the leg opening. You don’t want the leg opening to be too wide, but if you have wider hips and thin limbs as I do, you may struggle to find a good fit. The key is to try a bunch… or read on because I will comment on leg opening for each pair I tried.

To cuff or not to cuff. A cuff tends to draw attention to that part of the leg, so keep that in mind as you assess different pairs of shorts. I don’t mind a cuff because that’s a thinner part of my body, and I think the added bulk helps offset my wide hips; but if you have larger thighs, you may want to forego the cuff — or at least be sure you like where it lands on your leg.

Don’t ignore the rear view. Pocket placement can make or break a pair of denim shorts just as they can with a pair of jeans — perhaps even more so! I prefer pockets that aren’t too large, and I don’t like them placed too high or too far apart. I’ve only learned this by trying a bunch, taking pictures, and comparing. Again, everyone is different, but this is what works for me.

Finally, distressing. I know, I know. Someone will tell me that anyone who pays good money for clothing with rips and tears is a slave to fashion. Whatever. I like them. If you don’t like them, don’t wear them. Never fear, I will show a variety of options!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: For more details, you may want to read my Dos and Don’ts for Wearing Shorts.

Okay, let’s get this party started!

Summer Shorts Review & Comparison

For size reference, I’m 5’5″ and typically wear a size 28 or 29 (6 or 8) in jeans, and I usually wear an 8 or 29 in shorts. All shorts in this post are an 8 or 29 unless otherwise noted. All descriptions are beneath the pictures.

I divided this post into 3 parts — denim shorts, white denim shorts, and chino shorts. Let’s start with my favorite… denim shorts!

Denim Shorts: J.Crew, Joe’s, Madewell, LOFT, Gap, Kut from the Kloth, Wit & Wisdom, AG, Citizens & Joe’s

I pretty much live in jean shorts during the summer. If you’re a regular around here, you will not be shocked to hear that. I usually keep it casual with sandals and t-shirts, so for the purpose of this post, I tried them all on with my Madewell Whisper Cotton V-Neck Pocket Tee (size medium) and Tory Burch Miller Flip Flops.

J.Crew Denim Shorts in Merrill Wash

J.Crew Denim Shorts in Merrill Wash $79

  • Everyone needs a good, solid pair of jean shorts. Meet yours.
  • Sits at hip.
  • 8 3/4″ rise.
  • 4″ inseam cuffed to 3″.

I found these shorts very comfortable, with a good amount of stretch. The wash looks really good, but the rear pockets are rather large, and I don’t care for the width of the leg opening and how it sort of flares at the bottom.

Verdict: returning.

Best Summer Shorts for Moms: Joe's Jeans Bermuda Frayed Cuff Denim Shorts

Joe’s Jeans Bermuda Frayed Cuff Denim Shorts (also at Nordstrom) $98

  • A ripped cuff hemline brings laidback style to these jean shorts.
  • 5″ inseam; 20″ leg opening; 9 1/2″ front rise; 14″ back rise (size 29)
  • 87% cotton, 9% polyester, 4% elastane or 99% cotton, 1% elastane

These look a lot like the J.Crew pair, but they material is a little stiffer, although still comfortable. They have a much better fit thru thighs, and smaller rear pockets with better pocket placement. I also like the wash a lot, as well as the raw cuffed hem.

Verdict: keeping.

Summer Shorts Review: Madewell High-Rise Denim Shorts in Jordie Wash

Madewell High-Rise Denim Shorts in Jordie Wash $72 

  • With a super-flattering (and just a bit vintage) high rise, these distressed denim cutoffs are definitely on the sexy side…
  • Front rise: 10 3/4″; inseam: 4″.
  • 99% cotton/1% spandex denim.

I like this lighter wash a lot, but I’d have to get used to the 11″ front rise. They look good in these pictures, but when I had them on, I felt like they were giving me a wedgie even though they’re not too small. They’re also quite short — I’m wondering if that inseam length is the un-cuffed length. They look and feel to have a 3″ inseam — which I don’t mind, but it’s worth mentioning if you’re considering them and you prefer to keep your inseams longer. The pocket placement is definitely better than the J.Crew pair… I’m conflicted on these. I think I need to try them on again.

Verdict: undecided.

Summer Shorts Review: Madewell High Rise Mid Length Denim Shorts

Madewell High-Rise Mid-Length Denim Shorts in Adeline Wash $69

  • A mid-length version of our holy grail jean shorts…
  • Front rise: 11″; inseam: 7″.
  • 98% cotton/2% elastane denim.

These shorts are super comfy and very soft! Unfortunately I don’t love shredded raw hem, and I’m not crazy about the light wash, plus the rear pockets look HUGE to me. I would probably like them better cuffed, but I’m going to hold out for something better.

Verdict: returning.

Review: LOFT Modern Denim Bermuda Shorts in Authentic Light Indigo Wash

LOFT Modern Denim Bermuda Shorts in Authentic Light Indigo Wash $54

  • Expertly designed with premium mills to smooth, lift, fit and flatter in all the right places…
  • 10 1/2″ rise with 8″ inseam, rolled
  • 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex

I’m wearing a size 28 in these because I know from experience that LOFT shorts run big and tend to bag out with wear. They felt snug at first but loosened up quickly. They have a lower rise than all the above, good fit on thigh, small rear pockets, a nice mid-indigo wash. I’m liking these a lot!

Verdict: keeping.

Summer Shorts Review: LOFT Modern High Waist Denim Shorts in Destructed Mid Indigo Wash

LOFT Modern High Waist Denim Shorts in Destructed Mid Indigo Wash $54

  • Expertly designed with premium mills to smooth, lift, fit and flatter in all the right places…
  • 11 1/8″ rise with 3″ inseam
  • 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex

I’m undecided on these. I really like the wash, but not crazy about the higher rise. The frayed hem is a little funky, but they fit really well and have a narrower leg opening. The rear pockets are okay — they’re set kinda far apart, but it’s not a deal breaker.

Verdict: undecided.

Summer Shorts Review: LOFT Denim Roll Shorts

LOFT Denim Roll Shorts in Staple Dark Indigo Wash $54

  • Expertly designed with premium mills to smooth, lift, fit and flatter in all the right places…
  • 9 5/8″ rise with 3 1/2″ inseam, rolled
  • 98.5% Cotton, 1.5% Spandex

I also sized down to a 28 in these. I personally found these more comfortable than the LOFT Bermuda. They have a flattering fit, a pretty nice wash, and good rear pockets. Of the three LOFT pairs I tried, these are my favorites.

Verdict: keeping.

Review: Wit & Wisdom Ab-solution Cuffed Denim Shorts

Wit & Wisdom Ab-solution Cuffed Denim Shorts $68 

  • Cuffed shorts in soft stretch denim are designed to slim with inner mesh panels that shape, smooth and lift in all the right spots…
  • 6″ inseam; 20″ leg opening; 9″ front rise; 14 1/2″ back rise (size 8)
  • 54% cotton, 27% rayon, 17% polyester, 2% spandex

These are comfortable, but I don’t care for the fading, and they flare a little bit at the leg opening. They look better on the website than in person. That said, I do like the 6″ inseam.

Verdict: returning.

Summer Shorts Review: KUT from the Kloth Gidget High Waist Cutoff Shorts

KUT from the Kloth Gidget High Waist Cutoff Shorts $69

  • A button fly brings a trendy twist to high-rise cutoffs with a retro slim fit…
  • 4″ inseam; 22″ leg opening; 10 1/2″ front rise; 14″ back rise (size 8)
  • 99% cotton, 1% spandex.

These look a lot better on the website as well. They fit okay, but I didn’t care for the wash at all in person.

Verdict: returning.

Summer Shorts Review: GAP Mid Rise 3" Denim Shorts

GAP Mid Rise 3″ Denim Shorts $45

  • Dark indigo wash with fading and whiskering.
  • Mid rise.
  • Easy through the hip and thigh.
  • Inseam: regular 3″
  • 99% Cotton, 1% Spandex

These shorts are comfortable, the wash looks pretty good, and they fit well; but the pockets are quite large, and they widen slightly at the hem. I worry about what I might expose when I bend over — another reason I like it when jeans fit closer to the leg.

Verdict: returning.

Summer Shorts Review: GAP Mid Rise 5" Denim Shorts with Distressed Detail

GAP Mid Rise 5″ Denim Shorts with Distressed Detail $49

  • Dark indigo wash with fading and whiskering.
  • Mid rise.
  • Easy through the hip and thigh.
  • Inseam: regular 5″
  • 99% Cotton, 1% Spandex

These fit okay, although they’re a little wide in the leg opening, but yikes, that wash is ugly. It’s worse in person — almost an acid wash. If you have them and love them, don’t get mad at me, but they just didn’t do anything for me.

Verdict: returning.

Review: Citizens of Humanity Ava Cutoff Shorts

Citizens of Humanity Ava Cutoff Shorts $167

  • Wrinkled whiskering and fading softens the wash on these cutoff Citizens of Humanity shorts.
  • Rise: 8.25in
  • Inseam: 2.75in
  • 91% cotton/8% elastomultiester/1% spandex

By way of comparison, I tried these on from my closet. This is my go-to pair of cut-offs, and yes they’re pricey, but I did pick them up when they were on sale a couple years ago. I’ve always loved these shorts — they’re sooo comfortable — but I didn’t realize quite low large those pockets are. And yeah, they’re really short. I didn’t realize they were actually shorter than a 3″ inseam, but I think they sit low enough that they don’t really fit that way. I will keep wearing them, but probably not buy shorts quite this short again. #gettingold

Summer Shorts Review: AG Nikki Denim Shorts in 16 Years Indigo Deluge Destructed

AG Nikki Denim Shorts in 16 Years Indigo Deluge Destructed $168

  • Whiskered, faded, shredded, raw-edge hems
  • 8.25″ rise, 9″ inseam
  • Cotton/polyurethane

Clearly we just made a huge leap in price point, but I love this brand for jeans and am always drawn to these shorts. (I tried them last year too.) I always want to love them, but  they’re too wide in the leg, and I just don’t think I’m cool enough to pull them off. I like the light wash, but not with all the fading and distressing.

For distressed jean shorts, I prefer my BlankNYC pair. I think something about them being shorter makes it work better, plus the price tag is much more palatable for an item of clothing I will mostly wear to bum around at home. I didn’t try these on for this post because they’re almost sold out, but here’s a try on pic from earlier in the season:

Summer Shorts Review: BlankNYC Blank NYCDenim Cuffed Distressed Shorts in Weekend Warrior

The other pair that I love and wear a lot, but didn’t try on for this post because they’re almost sold out is the AG Hailey. While I love them, I think I’ve found some similar but lower priced options (the LOFT denim roll shorts and the Joe’s) that I like almost as well. In fact, I think the LOFT and Joe’s fit better, but I do love that AG denim; the wash can’t be beat.

Summer Shorts Review: AG Hailey Cuffed Denim Shorts

White Denim Shorts: J.Crew, J.Crew Mercantile, Madewell, Gap & Kut from the Koth

If you thought finding good white jeans was hard… wait till you start trying white shorts. Ha! Actually, I found most of these fairly thick and not terribly see-through, but the fit on some is really unfortunate.

J.Crew Denim Short in White

J.Crew Denim Short in White $69

  • Your favorite white jean now comes in a pair of shorts, with a hint of stretch for a comfortable fit.
  • City fit—our lowest rise. Sits just above hip.
  • 4″ inseam.
  • Cotton with stretch.

These are comfortable and a nice quality fabric, and I like that they’re cuffed with a 4″ inseam, but they flare a bit at the hem. All J.Crew shorts seem to do this. Bah humbug.

Verdict: returning.

Summer Shorts Review: J.Crew Mercantile White Denim Short

J.Crew Mercantile White Denim Short $29

  • Cotton/poly/elastane.
  • Sits just above hip.
  • 3 1/2″ inseam.

These are okay for me. I kind of like that they’re not a stark white, and I like the cuff and the 3 1/2″ inseam. They’re just a little wider in the leg than I prefer, but the rear view is better than the pricier J.Crew pair. For the price, they may be worth keeping.

Verdict: undecided.

Summer Shorts Review: Madewell The Perfect Jean Short in Tile White

Madewell The Perfect Jean Short in Tile White $64

  • Fits high and tight on the waist and easy through the hip and thigh, like your perfect vintage cutoffs.
  • Front rise: 11 1/2″; inseam: 3 1/2″
  • Premium 100% cotton denim

I really don’t care for these. The high rise and relaxed fit through the leg is trending right now, but it does nothing for me.

Verdict: returning.

Summer Shorts Review: GAP Mid Rise 5" Denim Shorts with Raw Hem in Salt

GAP Mid Rise 5″ Denim Shorts with Raw Hem in Salt $49

  • Raw, frayed hem.
  • Mid rise. Easy through the hip and thigh.
  • Inseam: regular 5″
  • 80% Cotton, 18% Rayon, 2% Spandex

No, just no. The fit is all off, and they’re kind of thin and see-through.

Verdict: returning.

Review: Kut from the Kloth Gidget Raw Hem Shorts

KUT from the Kloth Gidget Raw Hem Shorts $59

  • When summer fun calls, answer it with these fresh white shorts.
  • 4″ inseam; 21″ leg opening; 9″ front rise
  • 98% cotton, 2% spandex

Winner, winner, chicken dinner! These are nice and thick, slim through the thigh, flattering 4″ inseam, and a nice clean white (not off-white like others) and while they’re kind of wrinkly in the rear, I think the fit is pretty good considering my other options.

Verdict: keeping!

Chino Shorts: Gap, Caslon, LOFT, J.Crew & Boden

Okay, home stretch! On to chino shorts. I don’t wear chino shorts a ton, but sometimes it’s nice to have something other than denim.

Summer Shorts Review: Gap Utility Shorts

GAP 3″ Utility Shorts $34

  • Smooth, stretch herringbone weave.
  • Allover woven stripe detailing.
  • Mid rise. Easy through the hip and thigh.
  • Inseam: regular 3″
  • 97% Cotton, 3% Spandex

These are too short and wide in the leg, and I’m not loving the tone-on-tone stripe texture.

Verdict: returning.

Summer Shorts Review: Caslon Utility Shorts

Caslon Utility Shorts $45

  • Crisp cotton shorts get a dose of utilitarian cool with oversized patch pockets in front and mitered flap versions in back.
  • 5″ inseam; 23″ leg opening; 9 1/2″ front rise; 14 1/2″ back rise (size 8)
  • 9% cotton, 1% spandex

I wanted to love these, but the size 6 was too small in the hips and rear (wearing the 6 here), and the size 8 was too baggy in the leg. I like the 5″ inseam, the straight cut leg, and the utilitarian details.

Verdict: returning

Summer Shorts Review: LOFT Riviera Shorts with 4 Inch Inseam

LOFT Riviera Shorts with 4 Inch Inseam $39

  • Because sunny style should always be easy…
  • Mid rise
  • 4″ inseam
  • 97% Cotton, 3% Spandex

I sized down to a 6 in these, and the fit is about right. I’ve never loved the LOFT Riviera shorts, but I figured I’d give them another try. They have a funny little flare at the leg opening, but otherwise they fit pretty well.

Verdict: returning.

Summer Shorts Review: LOFT Riviera Shorts with 6

LOFT Riviera Shorts with 6 Inch Inseam $39

  • Because sunny style should always be easy…
  • Mid rise
  • 6″ inseam
  • 97% Cotton, 3% Spandex

These run big; even the 6 was large on me. They also flare a bit at the hem, or maybe they’re just overall wide, but I don’t love the length either, so they’re going back.

Verdict: returning.

Review: J.Crew 4" Stretch Chino Short

J.Crew 4″ Stretch Chino Short $45 

  • Our classic chino shorts just got better. We added a hint of stretch—which means they’re more comfortable and easier to move in than ever—and tweaked the silhouette to be a little more up-to-date, with a higher rise and tailored fit
  • Front rise: 9 3/4″
  • 4″ inseam
  • Cotton/elastane

These are also a size 6. I have no idea why I didn’t also order the 8. I had high hopes for these, but they do nothing for my rear view. They feel good on, but they look too tight. They also sort of flare at the leg opening, and the zipper splits at top. I’d like to try the 8, but for now, these went back.

Summer Shorts Review: Boden Rachel Chino Shorts

Boden Rachel Chino Shorts $50

  • Chino shorts are a MUST for this season’s wardrobe. They’ve got that smart/casual thing going on, plus a golden ratio of cotton to elastane…
  • 3″ Inseam.

These were recommended by a reader, and given my recent luck with a Boden dress and t-shirt, I wanted to give them a try. Unfortunately they run verrrry small. I’m in the 8, and they are tight in the waist and belly area.

Verdict: returning.

I’d like to try the J.Crew 4″ stretch chino shorts in the 8 because I really like that grey color. I’d also be curious to try the and the Boden Rachel Chino Shorts in the 10, and maybe in the 4″ leg, but they’re sold out. In fact, it looks like the Rachel style is being discontinued, so I think I’ll order the Richmond shorts and the Helena shorts to compare.

As you can see, I could easily have held this post a little longer and tried more, but hopefully this is enough to get you started!

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39 Responses

  1. Hi Jolynne!  Thank you so much for these very thoughtful and I’m sure time consuming posts!  It is so helpful to see the different fits and have you explain why they are a good fit vs why they are not so good!  It’s all in the details and it’s wonderful to be taught exactly what those details are!  These are my favorite type of your posts!  Blessings Krista

  2. Great post and helpful information.  Another thing to consider with shorts is how they look when you are sitting.  As we get older (sigh) the skin on our thighs doesn’t look smooth and shorts that look ok when standing take on a whole different look when sitting across from someone.  Especially when legs are crossed at the knee! Due to that, even at 5’5” and 120 pounds, at almost 50 yo, I opt for shorts that are a little longer. I think the cuffs give a younger vibe, esp when the shorts are longer.  
    Love your blog, thank you! 

  3. This is a great post (with the link to the other post of do’s and don’t’s of shorts.) My next project is my closet, and I am going to try on everything 🙁 I hate that. What I have learned, among so many other things, from your posts – don’t be hung up on size. I have to realize that sizing up for some items does not always reflect on my size, but on the sizing of the item. Why am I so hung up on a number?! Thank you for this great post.

    1. Hey Jolynne! Thank you so much for this post. I know it’s hard work. But it’s very much appreciated. Gosh! I have never seen so many options. But, although I’m in my late 60’s and I do have a little tummy pooch, I have found that Loft and Ralph Lauren shorts fit me the best until I wear them a while and then they start expanding. Can you recommend some brands that don’t give as much in the waist and butt. Thank you so much.–Linda

  4. Hey Jolynne! This is a great post and very helpful but I’m not seeing any of the pictures of the shorts on your post. Just wanted to let you know.

    1. I’m able to see all of your pictures now. I appreciate all your hard work you put into this post.

  5. My psyche knew you would be sharing your shorts review today.  That’s why I’m wearing jean shorts.  Ha!  I really appreciate the information you provided on how you select your shorts.  Since I do not wear shorts very often, I only have two pair of denim shorts, Universal Thread from Target and W&W from Nordstrom.  We are experiencing rain this morning, which I did not expect, but it will be out of here in a bit and the high will creep into the upper 80’s.  Yuck!  Have an awesome day!

  6. Hi, this is helpful…thank you! I’m not criticizing but I’m wondering why you are keeping so many jean shorts? You mentioned that you are keeping several, already have some and were undecided about several others. Do you wear different ones for different looks or what is the thought process? I’m genuinely curious because I try to think like you when I’m styling an outfit 🙂

    1. Haha, I was wondering that myself when I looked at the shorts shelf in my closet this morning. 😂 I didn’t take tags off yet, so some may end up going back if I don’t use them or need them. But I wear shorts almost every day during the summer, so it makes sense to have a variety — especially with the blog. People get sick of seeing the same clothes over and over, and my go-to favorites are mostly sold out so I can’t link them.

  7. I have been eagerly awaiting this post because I need new shorts for summer!  In the past, you have recommended shorts from White House Black Market.  I think they were the city short.  Do you still like these for a non-denim option?

    1. Yes, I do. I meant to order some for this post and never got around to it. City Shorts were Ann Taylor – I like them, but the leg opening is wide, and now that I’m a size larger than when I wore them, that really looks bad. The WHBM ones seem to have a narrower leg opening, and they are also 5″ inseam (City Shorts were 4″, I believe.)

      Here’s WHBM: https://shopstyle.it/l/3pdw
      And AT City Shorts: https://shopstyle.it/l/3pgJ

  8. Wow!!  So much work to post all this, but SO helpful!!!

    I loved how you described what wasn’t working.   By the end, I started to see if I could guess what you’d say (even though I would’ve otherwise thought they looked fine).

    Definitely a great perspective for me to take into the fitting room!  

    Thanks for putting so much extra time into this one!

  9. Thank you for such a detailed and time consuming post!  Like others, I started guessing “keep” or “return” on the pictures.  I really appreciate you sharing the thought process.  It truly helps me when trying on clothes myself.  

  10. I love these reviews. Thank you for trying a variety of rises and lengths! I am heavier in the thighs so I need a wide-leg short. Actually, the Loft Riviera shorts are my “go to” —I just get them altered in the waist. And for your curvy readers: Loft makes their Riviera shorts in curvy now. They have limited colors, but it’s a start. Denim shorts are harder for curvy girls because they seem to be cut narrow in the leg opening—and forget Bermudas or cargo shorts, they never work for me. Well, didn’t mean for this to be a complain-fest! Your review helps me decide what will be worth a try for me —a time saver! 

    1. Haha, you didn’t sound like you’re complaining. Shorts are hard! And reading other women’s issues with them help me remember that my issues aren’t necessarily the same ones others have. As a blogger, that’s important. It’s easy to always recommend things based on how they fit me, rather than taking that info and knowing how to recommend them to others.

  11. Good morning, I think the jean and white shorts you are keeping looked nice on you, but I actually felt the chino shorts looked the best on you!  Chino shorts look great on women our age and can be dressed up or down depending on the top or shoe you wear, and can be worn out and about.  Jean shorts are cute, but can sometimes look a bit teenagery if there is too much distressing, but are great for hanging around the house, but at more moderate price points.  Love your blog!

    1. Yeah, I know what you mean, but my lifestyle is very casual and jean shorts are appropriate for most of what I do. When I want a more polished look, I’d rather wear white jeans, or a skirt or dress.

      I think my issue with chino shorts is the interior rear pockets — they always look funny on me. Same reason why I don’t like chino pants. I didn’t really care for any of these I tried from the rear view except possibly the Boden ones. I’d like to try a size up and see how they look and feel. And chino shorts tend to have wider leg openings, too… so I just don’t wear them much. That said, I used to have a pair of White House Black Market ones that I liked a lot. I really need to try theirs again.

      1. Yes, the Boden ones are really nice on you and the Gap 3 looked great too.   True about the wide leg openings, as you have nice, slim legs!  Enjoy your day!

  12. Thanks for such a detailed post!  I rarely wear shorts anywhere but at home, but you do have me wondering if I could find some that I could be comfortable wearing other places.   I will definitely be trying some different ones on now.  Thanks for all your hard work!

  13. Well Jo Lynne I just bought my first yes first pair of denim shorts at age 51 so never say never ladies lol… I bought a cute pair at Banana Republic factory. They were $59.99 and 60% off plus an additional 15% so I couldn’t refuse. They also fit like a glove . They have the button fly and are 4” super soft( that’s one reason I normally stay away from denim in shorts because they’re too thick)and would be hot to wear. I love a soft denim not stiff. I was reviewing your guide from this morning when trying them on. Thanks for all the helpful tips 😀
    Also perfect wash color too not too dark and not too light.

  14. Hi Jo-Lynne!  This is a great post- thank you for reviewing so many shorts!  Could you provide a link to the gray cap/short sleeve shirt that you’re wearing with the white J. Crew Denim shorts?  Thanks!

  15. Fun post!  Every spring I swear I am NOT wearing shorts this summer, and then it gets to be around 300 degrees in July, and I cave.  As always, your reviews and insights are helpful and interesting.  Among other things, it helps me see why I don’t like cuffs on me, and why I want a 6-7 inch rise.  Anyway.  My thoughts for you – I like those AG longer shorts on you.  I know they are not what you are used to seeing on yourself, but I think they look great, and would be good to mix it up a little.  It may be more than you want to spend for something outside your box, but (as I frequently tell myself), if I’m outside my comfort zone, I’m more likely to wear it if it’s higher quality and something I otherwise feel good about.  I also liked those Boden shorts – that color is crazy-ee!  But fun, and I think you carry it off well.

  16. Thanks so much for the research, love how thorough you’re “reporting” is!

    May I request a segment on boyfriend vs girlfriend jeans. I’m not really sure what the difference is and it would be helpful to know how to currently style them. Love your blog and your spirit!

    1. I would love a post on this as well. I want a pair of darker pair of girlfriend/boyfriend jeans with a single roll that is on the shorter or cropped-length side.

  17. This is a great review, thanks for all the time you put into the details.  I’m also looking for jean Capri pants… are those out of style?  They seem very hard to find.  I have a couple pairs from a few years ago but I’m finding the rise is too low and they just don’t fit well, but I’m not finding options now.  Any suggestions?

  18. You kept the Kut Gidget shorts in white denim but returned the ones in darker denim. Was it just the wash that you didn’t like in the first pair of Gidgets?
    I’ve been considering ordering a pair because I also have skinny legs. Finding good shorts in a 4-5 inch inseam with smaller leg opening is a chore EVERY summer! Thanks for doing this particular post!

  19. Great post. I appreciate all of the options you showed and the descriptions. They are not chino shorts, but try Boden’s Richmond shorts. They have a stretch to them, come in great colors and the fit is great. I find that they run big and size down. (Also come in full legnth pants and 7/8 pants legnth.

  20. JoLynne, I really like the J.Crew white shorts on you. I totally understand you might not be comfortable with the little “flare,” but honestly, it’s not something I’ve ever noticed in anyone’s shorts. Your legs look super fab in these!! 

    I also really like the Madewell high rise shorts on you. They make your legs look super long!! I’m with you though…I’m not sure I’d like a high rise short. My whole thing with jean short is that they should be comfy. I have a couple of pairs of “dressy” shorts that aren’t as comfy, but they’re more for summer cocktails on a patio that a go-to pair. Love the tank top, too! Not sure if you have talked about them or not, but I have a linen, knit tank from J. Crew that I really like. 

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