Once you reach a certain age, finding shorts you actually feel good wearing can start to feel like a challenge. But when the summer heat really kicks in, sometimes there’s just no substitute! Fortunately, there are a lot of great options out there right now, with plenty of lengths, fits, and styles to choose from.
Today I’m sharing my current favorites along with even more pairs worth considering for summer.
EVEREVE Joelle Stretch Linen Shorts c/o (30) // Nora Muscle Tee (M) // Margaux sandals (39) // Madewell bag // Madewell cuff // Bryan Anthonys pendant & necklace c/o // Jenny Bird hoops c/o // YSL sunnies
How to Find Your Ideal Shorts Length
When it comes to shorts shopping, knowing your preferred inseam length can make the process so much easier. It helps narrow down your choices and saves you from the frustration of trying on every style out there. Many women tend to gravitate toward longer shorts as they get older, and while longer styles are definitely trending this season, I’d caution against going too long. They can be tricky to pull off unless you’re especially tall and leggy.
Personally, I prefer an inseam somewhere between 3″ and 5″. For me, that’s the sweet spot for balancing coverage and flattery.
KUT from the Kloth Jane – 4 1/2″ inseam (8) // Z Supply tank c/o (L) // Loeffler Randall flip flops (8)
If you’re not sure what length works best for you, try experimenting. Take a few pairs in different lengths, snap some photos, and compare them side by side.
You can also cuff a longer pair an inch at a time and take photos to see what feels most proportionate on your body. Shorts that are too long can sometimes look frumpy, while styles that are too short may not feel as polished. Of course, your body type and vertical proportions play a role too.
With all that in mind, here are my favorite shorts for summer and how I like to style them—plus a roundup of even more great options to shop!
Denim Shorts: The Classic Summer Staple
Denim shorts are a summer staple for a reason. They go with just about everything and are incredibly easy to style. The fabric is also practical—you can wear them multiple times without washing, and they do a great job of hiding dirt and stains, which makes them especially great for travel and busy summer days.
These Gap Factory jean shorts were my go-to pair last summer, and I’ve already been wearing them on repeat again this spring, both at home and on my recent Florida trip. The medium wash works with everything, and I love the clean hem and timeless design. They have a mid-rise fit and my favorite 5″ inseam for just the right amount of coverage.
Gap Factory 5″ Denim Shorts (29) // J.Crew linen tee (M) // Gola sneakers (7.5) // YSL sunnies
This year, I picked up the KUT from the Kloth Jane, and I think they’re going to be another favorite. They have a 4 1/2″ inseam, a flattering not-too-tight fit, and just a touch of stretch for comfort.
KUT from the Kloth Jane (8) Z Supply tank c/o (L) // Loeffler Randall flip flops (8) // Madewell crossbody // Madewell cuff // Bryan Anthonys Mom Coin Pendant & Our Light Necklace c/o (20% off with JOLYNNE20) // Jenny Bird Doune Hoop c/o // YSL sunnies
I also just added these Tommy Bahama denim shorts to my closet. I love the combination of the light wash, clean finished hems, and vertical seam detail—it gives them a look that feels both elevated and casual at the same time.
Tommy Bahama Relaxed Jean 4-Inch Shorts (10) // J.Crew Factory beach sweater (M) // beek Palila in Tan // MAISON de SABRÉ tote c/o // Jenny Bird Doune Hoop c/o // YSL sunnies
If you find traditional denim too stiff or uncomfortable, another great option is the viral rag & bone “sweatpant jeans” shorts. They look like denim but feel like loungewear. I shared a full rag & bone Miramar Shorts Reviewif you want more details on those!
rag & bone Miramar Terry Walking Shorts (also at Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Shopbop, Amazon) // similar sweater // Z Supply Camino Tee (L) // Jeffrey Campbell Boast Boat Shoes (8.5) // similar bag // Tom Ford sunnies
Shop Denim Shorts for Summer:
White Twill Shorts: Classic, Clean & Chic
When I want to elevate my shorts outfits a bit, I reach for a pair of crisp white twill shorts. They’re just as easy to dress up or down as classic denim, but they have a more polished feel.
These Vineyard Vines Herringbone Stretch Cotton Shorts have been a workhorse in my spring and summer wardrobe for the past two years. The subtle herringbone texture adds a refined touch, and the cotton-rich fabric has just enough stretch for comfort without losing its structure. I have the 3 1/2″ inseam, but they’re also available in a 5″ inseam if you prefer a little more coverage. I liked them so much, I ended up buying a few more colors for this summer.
Vineyard Vines Herringbone 3.5″ Shorts (10) // old Faherty sweater (S) // LNA Dessa (M) // Dolce Vita sandals (8) // similar handbag // similar bangles // necklace // earrings // sunglasses
Shop White Shorts for Summer:
Linen Shorts: Lightweight & Breezy for Hot Days
When it’s super hot out and I still want to look polished and put-together, linen shorts are my go-to.
This black pair from EVEREVE is especially nice because it has a bit of stretch for comfort. I also prefer a flat-front style with a zipper closure rather than a drawstring waist, and this pair has great details like side seam pockets, back welt pockets, and a versatile 4″ inseam.
EVEREVE Joelle Stretch Linen Shorts c/o (30) // EVEREVE Nora Muscle Tee (M) // Margaux sandals (39) // Madewell bag // Madewell cuff // Bryan Anthonys Mom Coin Pendant & Our Light Necklace c/o (20% off with JOLYNNE20) // Jenny Bird Doune Hoop c/o // YSL sunnies
This pair by KUT from the Kloth is actually a linen blend, which helps cut down on wrinkles—a big plus for travel or long days out and about. They have a comfortable drawstring elastic waist, front patch pockets, and back flap pockets, all thoughtful details that keep them from feeling too casual or basic. I styled them here with a simple white tee and neutral sandals for an easy summer outfit.
KUT from the Kloth Linen Short (M) // similar tee (M) // Dolce Vita sandals (8)
I added the olive pair this year, and I often wear them with a black ribbed tank. Here’s
KUT from the Kloth Katana Drawstring Linen Blend Shorts (M) // Free People Neria (L) // TKEES flip flops (8)
I also really like the Madewell Zoe. They have a flat front with a button-and-zip closure, which gives them a slightly more polished feel. This light blue is such a pretty shade for summer, and they come in several other colors and patterns as well.
Madewell Zoe Linen Shorts (M) // Quince ruffle trim tank (M) // Sam Edelman Bay Slides (8)
Shop Linen Shorts for Summer:
Olive Utility Shorts: A Comfy Neutral With a Twist
I always like to have a pair of olive utility shorts in my summer wardrobe. They feel a little more interesting than basic tan or khaki shorts, and I find the color more flattering on my skin tone. The utility details give them a casual vibe, and they pair especially well with black tops.
I’ve had these Sanctuary Renegade Shorts for several years now. They’re made from a super-stretchy twill and have a back elastic waistband that makes them especially comfortable to wear. This year’s version is called the Wander On Short, but they look virtually identical.
similar Sanctuary shorts (29) // similar black tank (S) // Sam Edelman raffia slides (8)
I also love the rolled hems and front patch pockets, and you can wear them cuffed or uncuffed for a slightly different vibe. Here’s how they look uncuffed. They also come in several other colors.
similar Sanctuary shorts (29) // similar black tee (M) // Birk Madrid (39)
And this year, I discovered these PAIGE Olivia Cargo Shorts. I managed to grab mine on sale earlier in the season, which was a nice bonus because they are definitely a bit of a splurge. But the quality is excellent, and they’ve held up really well to washing and wearing.
PAIGE Olivia Cargo Shorts (30) // Free People Neria Rib Tank (L) // TKEES flip flops c/o (8) // Clare V. Grande Fanny
Shop Utility Shorts for Summer:
Have you found any really good pairs of shorts this summer? Drop a comment and let us know what’s been working for you!
You might also enjoy my post Dos and Don’ts for Wearing Shorts for more styling tips.
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18 Responses
I really am loving the Paige olive shorts! So much so that I got them in chocolate also! Bloomingdale’s often has them included in their promo.
I’m such a sucker for the VV herringbone shorts. I think their color selection is pretty weak honestly, but my white and navy are staples in my summer closet.
I think you left out one truly strong contender… F&E pleated linen blend shorts. There’s honestly nothing like them! The pleats lay totally flat due to the picket lining being sewn into the zipper. The fabric is superior to anything else I own with shape retention, giving multiple wears. I hope you’ll order and try in a try-on haul. I get the 4” I think it is.
I’m also pleased with the wide waistband of the pull on linen j crew shorts. That sets them apart to my eye.
Happy weekend!
Thanks for the heads-up on the F&E shorts. I can’t imagine liking pleats, but they sound like they may be worth a try. And I like the J.Crew pull-on ones as well.
I always follow your advice on shorts bc we like the same length!
My go to for linen shorts is Talbots. I’m also loving these super soft Z by Zella shorts I found at Nordstrom Rack, when I just want to bum around the house. My preferred inseam is about 5″.
Great selection of shorts but no culottes? I know these probably are not part of your personal style, but they are everywhere in the stores right now – I’d love to hear your thoughts on these. I’ve bought two pair this spring and they are pretty much all I have been wearing lately.
Yeah, I don’t really consider culottes shorts. They usually fall at or below the knee. I have noticed some trouser shorts, but they really aren’t my style. I might still give them a try if I see the right pair.
I haven’t even thought of shorts yet. I think mine from last year all still fit and should still be good for this year. I really don’t like to wear shorts anymore due to my legs not being in shape as much as I’d like but usually after some sun or sunless tanner I end up wearing them on the hot days. There is just days in Summer time it’s too hot for pants. I like casual dresses too. I’d like to see a post for this. You look great in all these shorts.
I have the Renegade shorts in olive and obsidian, and I love them. I haven’t worn shorts outside yet here in Ohio–it’s been too cold. But it’s warming up next week.
Yes, it is warming up here this week too, can’t wait!
I didn’t wear shorts for many years, even though we lived in the South. Then we moved to Florida and I just decided I had to find a length and style I could live with – along with a good sunless tanner! Turns out a 6-7 inch inseam with a slightly wider leg and high rise works really well for me. I found that Gap Factory 90s Style jeans had the perfect fit so I just cut them at the length I wanted and they’re perfect. I have longer legs for my height (5’4”) so the longer inseam works. So much more comfortable now!
That’s awesome. Sometimes it really is just about taking the time to figure out what works for you. That’s why I’m trying not to write off things like, say, linen pants… even though most of them make me feel like frumpsville, lol. I finally found a pair that works for me, but it took a lot of trial and error to find it.
I’m glad it’s not just me that struggles to find a pair of linen trousers that isn’t a major frump-fest. Every pair I’ve tried so far, just sloppy and too overwhelming for my petite frame. Linen shorts, though, as I said above, I have had success with the ones I have found at Talbots.
On the sanctuary olive shorts, did you go with a 29 instead of a 30 because of elastic at back? I know the Wander On, might be a bit different then yours–but I think both have the elastic back. Also, I’d love to see some summer casual skirts for summer.
Mine are a couple years old. I’d probably need a 30 now.
the wander on obsidian short by Sanctuary I ordered after reading this post! I’m between 2xl and xl in pants and sanctuary offers extended sizes… they were out of burnt olive in my size but the obsidian color works as I don’t have any black shorts! I also got the jcrew beach sweater in white with blue stripes (short sleeve version) as i’m in Texas and short sleeve i’ll get more use out of it; I also have the light blue short sleeve quince sweater (mentioned in an earlier post) I’m getting some high quality pieces and then getting more on trend items at lower price points to change the outfits without breaking my budget!! thank you so much!! love both sweaters and can’t wait for the shorts to arrive!!
I was able to get the sanctuary wander on short. I am between xl and 2xl on pants/shorts; they make extended sizes so I was able to get them in obsidian (they were out of burnt olive in my size). I own the gap factory ones from last year also! super comfy and like you said go with everything!
Just a heads up that your website is getting rather unreadable due to all the ads. 🙁
Jane,
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