20 Best Denim Shorts For Women (2023 Updated)

These shorts are perfect and I love them so much that I have ordered 5 different colors. They’re tight but breathable and comfortable, super flattering, lay flat around my waist, and are the perfect length for looking hot but not showing my buttcheeks.

My only issue is the sizing is weird. I am 5’2 110ish lbs and wear size XS in most stores & typically size 2 in jeans. However in (most of) these shorts I’m size 24/00. The ojai top and sansome straggler are stretchy comfortable and cute and don’t have that hard/stiff jean feeling.

They let the booty breath without showing the cheeks, although they do stretch out and start to ride up and show some underbuttt if you bend over towards the end of the day. But the two toned shorts are much more stiff and feel a little extra tight, like I can’t eat a big meal while wearing them type of tight, they also have a button fly instead of a regular zipper.

The white shorts are also more like the stiff classic jean material and also have a button fly, but they fit a little bigger than the others. They’re still cute and wearable tho. I also ordered the black ones but I haven’t gotten them yet.

Gosh, where do I start? I love these shorts SO much. First off, the color is PERFECT. Secondly, they make my booty look amazing. Normally I hade non hemmed shorts bc they usually make my butt look small or flat.

These absolutely do NOT. Thirdly, the fit is SO flattering. I did deduct one star as the sizing is kinda funky. I have three pairs of Levi 721 jeans in size 25 and they fit perfect, but in these I had to buy a size 24.

They run a little large, so I had to buy multiple sizes to see what would fit best, That’s the only complaint I have and they’re otherwise perfect.

I actually did not expect to like these much because I thought the rips on the bottom would be weird (I got the Sandsom Straggler color), but I LOVE them. I had previously tried a pair of universal thread shorts and they squished my booty and had a waist gap.

The Levi’s make my butt look great and don’t have the dreaded waist gap. That said, if you are apple shaped, these are probably not for you as you may find them tight in the waist. The leg openings are relaxed (I don’t like that part to be fitted as if you just cut off a pair of skinny jeans).

I disagree with the other reviewers that say these run small. I am usually a 25, sometimes a 26 and the 25 fit perfectly. Maybe it’s just the larger sizes that run small? These are 100% cotton, traditional rigid denim with no stretch.

I expect that they will loosen with wear as that type normally does. My measurements are 27” waist and 38” hips, slim legs.

I have been looking for straight cut shorts that aren’t too long but not hoochie either. Why is it a struggle to find shorts that cover you up in just the right way? These Levi’s definitely do the trick! These pair are just a tad bit longer in the back, so your bum isn’t out in the open when you bend down.

Also, if you’re one of the many people complaining it’s a button ‘zip’, you clearly don’t know anything about what makes 501s. well. 501s. that’s the statement and that’s what makes it iconic!! If you have a little pooch like me, these 501s really suck in that bottom belly and gives you a much smoother look in the front.

Highly recommend!! Note: it might feel tight in the beginning, but as with any denim, it needs warming up and next thing you know, it’s loosened up a bit. Saying that, I’d buy this at 29 instead of the recommended 28 and just belt it up.

Just to give a little more room for ‘give’.

I bought these shorts because I have outgrown all of my others and I love these! I usually go for holey jean shorts, but it’s always nice to have a standard plain pair. These shorts are short, yet not too short or too long.

The only thing I am not a fan of is the lack of a zipper. Personally, I like shorts with a zipper, but these have 4 small buttons in addition to the big one. It makes it hard to go to the bathroom when I have to unbutton all of them and button them back up.

Not that big of a deal but it does make it somewhat inconvenient.

These are the perfect shorts. The quality is good and the fit is just what I needed. These work great if you have the problem of finding shorts that fit both in the legs and the waist. Often, if shorts fit me just right in the leg, they will be too tight in the waist, or if they fit me in the waist, the legs are too big and bulky.

These might not work if your waist is tiny in comparison to your hips. I’m more straight up and down, so these were awesome for me! I also love the length because it if you want to cover more, it is long enough, or if you prefer them shorter, all you have to do is fold them up one roll.

They are soft and stretchy denim without getting too baggy over the day. They are my favorite jean shorts. They are true to size. I am 5’2, 128lbs, and the size 6 fits perfectly.

I’m not exaggerating when I say these are the best shorts I’ve ever owned. The material is lightweight, perfect for summer. The button and zipper sit nicely against my skin as opposed to gapping like shorts sometimes do.

I am 5’6”, with a long torso and short legs. For that reason, I have to roll them up a bit so they don’t look frumpy. If you have average or long legs you probably wouldn’t have to do that. My only complaint is that sizing is I consistent.

I’ve purchased multiple pairs, but needed different sizes. Other than that, these are perfect. I wear them to death.

These shorts are the BEST!!! True to size, great length, and flattering high rise waist. They are great for coverage but still very trendy and stylish. I have now bought them in all 4 colors! I also love that they styled the distressing, on each color, a tad differently, so it doesn’t look like you are wearing the same shorts over and over again.

Each color has the same fit but a tad different in styling. The quality is also is good denim and looks/feels like more expensive brands. I can’t say enough good things about these comfy and cute shorts!.

The fit and feel of these was wonderful; the denim seems high quality and they looked great at first. I was very happy with them until the seams completely ripped up my legs on BOTH sides within two months.

On one side I tried to mend it, but it continued to rip along the areas with distressing. The distressing is positioned in such a way where major tears like this are likely. I’m not talking about cute rips that add to the distressed look…I’m talking ALL the way up my thigh, past the pockets.

There’s no salvaging the shorts, they’re just destroyed. I don’t even have athletic thighs! the fit seemed great at first and they were definitely not too small. It’s just the combination of rigid denim plus the position of the distressing…bending over is not allowed, I guess! I sadly can’t recommend these as they are extremely overpriced and didn’t even last even half a season.

I’ve never felt so let down by a designer garment in my life.

Good quality fabric ? so soft. The wash is great. My biggest issue is with the cut. In photos of these shorts on others, they look relatively straight with a roomy leg. However, these are more of an A-line cut, where the shorts flare out at the leg.

This makes me look like I?m wearing a skirt/skort and aren?t particularly flattering for me. I?m 5?7?, 155 lbs, and usually take a 30 in bottoms. I sized up to a 31 because of reviews elsewhere, but the 31 was too big (not falling off, but would?ve preferred a 30).

I say take your normal size. I desperately wanted to make these work because they look so great on others, but they aren?t for me.

I put off purchasing these because of the price point, and I wasted at least that much trying to find a more economical option. Some of those were OK, but none were great. I finally broke down and ordered the Parkers, and I haven’t looked back! They’re not for everyone, but they’re everything I was looking for and more.

As other reviewers have noted, they do run large, but I ordered my regular jeans size anyway because 1) I wanted them to fit a bit slouchy and 2) I have a straight-ish body and didn’t want the waist to feel at all tight.

If you have a curvier figure, you probably should consider sizing down one. The denim is perfectly thick and soft, and the distressing looks authentic. The pockets are secure and I feel confident dropping in my car keys or wallet.

The length is modest but not matronly. The leg opening is generous, which might not please everyone but suits me well. The button fly is secure but not a struggle to do or undo. Best of all, these give my flat bum a great shape! Even at this price point, my cost per wear after a summer on repeat is practically pennies.

Totally worth it!.

I love these shorts! They fit very true to size and have a lot of stretch to them. I am actually between a size 4 and 6 in some shorts and pants so I ordered one 4 and a 6 to try both. The 4 fits perfect and the 6 actually fits almost just like the 4, but a little looser.

They are 98 percent cotton and 2 percent spandex so not sure yet about shrinkage. I will wash the 4 before deciding on taking the 6 back just to check sizing after washing, but I will hang to dry to keep them from shrinking to much.

I love the fit, they look snug, but aren’t snug feeling at all because they have so much stretch. If you are in between sizes you may be able to size down, but just remember they are 98% cotton. It depends on how you like your shorts to fit.

If you would rather have a looser looking fit then you would probably want to size up. I prefer a true to size snug looking fit. I just love how they look snug, but are not tight feeling at all.

Very disappointed. Judging by this item, Levi’s quality has gone way down. Knee length is perfect. But they were too loose in the stomach for me, and just in trying them out a few minutes, I noticed they started to stretch.

Way too much. Must be because there’s almost 1/3 polyester content. Levi’s needs to stick with traditional all-cotton denim, or at least mostly cotton.

These shorts were almost great, but fell short and would not work for me. They are cut only for an extreme hourglass shape (tiny, pinched in waist with very wide thighs). I weigh 112 lbs and normally wear a 4 in most things (sometimes 2) and always either S or XS, so I got a 4 in these.

(I tried size 2 also, which was way too tight and the waist would not even meet). In size 4, the rear area was perfect, length perfect, fabric soft and comfortably perfect, happy with waist height (a little below navel).

However, the waist was just too uncoomfortably tight (had to pull it to fasten the button), and the outer thigh area fabric just kind of stuck out oddly. If you don’t have that extreme shape, you probably won’t be completely happy with these.

The cut does not look at all in person like it does in the photo shown. Notice how model’s hand is covering one of the side areas that sticks out.

I had high hopes for these. Reviews were good and they seemed to be the right combination of relaxed and classic jean short. But I’m the outlier here. I found these to be too big to be salvageable — too boxy, loose and just unflattering overall.

I’m a size 27 in most jeans brands (5’ 6”, 133), occasionally a 26 and occasionally a 28. I read that these ran big but still went with a 28 because I generally size up in shorts to ensure everything is covered and they fit correctly.

It’s not just that these are loose, though. The silhouette is completely off from what I was looking for — the crotch seems too long (material bunched up when I sat) yet the leg is too straight to offer the gentle A line flare of classic denim shorts.

They are a good length and the weight of the denim is what you’d expect from Madewell. I wore them around the house for a couple hours to make sure I wasn’t being too critical and really couldn’t wait to get them off.

Back they go.

These shorts are AMAZING. When I saw them at the store, I knew that I had to try them on because of how great Madewell’s curvy denim is. I always have issues with regular jeans and jean shorts gaping at my waste, but not with Madewell’s curvy denim.

I have another pair of curvy jeans from Madewell and they fit so well! I am normally a 27 or a 28 in Madewell denim, but in the curvy styles, I am a 26, so definitely size down. Upon trying these shorts on, I was so excited to see that they fit my thighs and my waste, which is no small feat.

I knew that I had to purchase them. I have already worn them multiple times and gotten numerous compliments from my friends. I have even convinced another friend to purchase the exact same shorts. Overall, I’m a big fan, and I highly recommend these shorts!.

I’ve been looking for the perfect pair of shorts and these are finally it! They’re a high rise relaxed short, which is exactly what I’ve been wanting. I’ve been eyeing the mom jean style but they are too tight in the waist and have too much of an A-line shape for my liking.

These sit at my belly button but they aren’t skin tight and have the perfect, slightest flare to them at the bottom. The split seam at the side really makes the style. I originally sized down and while they fit and I could wear them, they were too tight and didn’t really loosen up the way I thought a relaxed short would (and how other pairs of Madewell relaxed shorts have for me).

If you want something more fitted, then sure, size down. But these are so perfect in my normal size. I’m just upset I didn’t buy them sooner!.

I bought three pairs of Aerie’s Daydream shorts last year and wore them so much so I wanted to get tons more but this year’s shorts are disappointing. First the sizing between colors is inconsistent, I found the black shorts were to small I’d need to size up the green were slightly small and the white and griege ones were slightly big but still okay in my size.

Secondly, they are just too distressed. Last year’s had a raw hem but were even all the way across whereas this year they all have that big tear on the right leg making them appear shorter than they are and a pretty big distressed spot on the buttcheek that just makes these too distressed for me to be comfortable in them and they are less classy to wear on a night out as a late 20 something.

I hope next year Aerie moves back to last year’s shorts in the level of how “distressed” they are because they were truly a mid-size girl’s dream denim short.

I love these shorts so much more than any of the other ae shorts simply bc they’re so much softer and more comfortable. They don’t ride up with a thick seam into your crotch either haha. They’re stretchy with an elastic waistband in the back.

Normally I would wear a 4-6 in shorts but these fit well as a small. I tried a medium first, but it was too big and saggy. I have a curvy figure with thicker thighs and booty. They’re not as high rise as mom shorts or 90’s boyfriend, but still cute.

Sits a bit below the belly button. Will repurchase in more colors! #AEReviewSweepsEntry.

These shorts are my new go to for summer for sure! They are absolutely amazing, super light weight and comfy. My favorite feature is the elastic waist band along the back. It just adds an extra form of comfort! I would say they are pretty true to size, however, you may be a different size in the different washes.

For example I’m a large in the white but an extra large in the dark wash. This has everything to do with the coloring and dyeing of the denim. Grab these!.

I have a 27-27. 5″ waist. I have these Regina shorts in a size 8 already in the blue version. I got these in a size 8 too, these are more snug at the waist, leg opening a little smaller, outseam 1 inch shorter, inseam 0.

5 inches shorter, fabric is slightly thicker, zip is a different brand too, they appear to be made in two different countries. The blue ones inspired me to get the black ones and I stalked the website then downloaded the app when I saw people talking about stock notifications.

The discount wasnt as much as I got from Mango sales for the blue but the black was sold out and these shorts are fabulous, exactly what I’ve always wanted if I ever wore shorts. They now call the model of the shorts Jon in the new releases.

Anyway even though they fit slightly different, it’s still the same vibe, fitted at waist and flares out, mid thigh length. I love both. The blue won’t always be more loose though, I remember getting the exact same blue a year back at full price and that was snug like the recent black one.

Also this is a washed black, not deep black. Inseam is 4. 5-5 between both shorts if anyone is interested.

Love these! They are actually high waisted, which I love! A lot of the time I buy shorts labeled “high waisted” & they aren’t really so this was a nice surprise. The denim is very thin, which might be a bad thing for some, but I am really happy because summers are brutal where I live so they will be much cooler to wear.

I do wish they were just a little shorter because they hit a kind of weird spot on my legs, but overall I am very happy with my purchase.

These were a last-minute add to my basket but they’re by far my favourite item! Most of my shorts are tight-fitting so its a breath of fresh air to now own a pair that’s slouchy, however still super flattering! Really lovely cotton material and colour.

Kind of an 80s vibe. I was surprised when I was recommended a size 6 because I tend to be an 8 (or even a 10 when I want a loose fit) but these fit perfectly and gave me a confidence boost lol. Good price that doesn’t break the bank and I can’t wait to wear them this summer!.

I hate shorts, pretty much all shorts. Never liked how they looked on me until THESE!!! I love everything about them, the color, the fit, the material, everything! I had never even heard of this brand and am so glad I went for it!.

Based on other reviews, I bought these shorts in two sizes – 28 petite and 29 petite. The 28 was way too tight – like I could barely button the waist. The 29s fit perfectly. Until about an hour later.

They stretched out that fast, and way too baggy they look ridiculous. I washed and dried them, but again, within an hour of putting them on, they stretched put so much, the waist falls down. Given I already tried the next size down and couldn’t get them buttoned, there really is nothing I can do.

A shame, b/c the length is perfect. Now I just wear around my house, but no way cam I wear them in public unfortunately.

Gap is the ONLY clothing store I’ve found where you can safely rely on the size chart for purchases. I do wish they would include an inseam for bottoms, though, because it’s nice to know if something will be school-appropriate before purchasing.

The inseam for their Midi style is between 3 1/2″-4″ depending on the style. My daughter is 6 1/2y, approx. 49″-50″ tall, 55lbs, chest 22″-23″, waist 21″-22″, hips 26″. The size 7 fits perfectly with room in the waist.

They have an adjustable waistband and the elastic is soft (not irritating like many other brands). My daughter used to hate denim until I bought her a pair of Gap shorts that were on clearance a while back.

Now she has a closet-full of Gap shorts and jeans. She still has trouble with snaps and loves the hook closure Gap uses. She also says they’re comfortable (no complaints about stiff, itchy denim digging in or riding up in the wrong places).

It has been so hard finding denim shorts that not only fit, but are flattering. I love these shorts! The color is the perfect shade of blue, and I love that the hem is finished (all I could find everywhere were unfinished hems).

I love that I can roll them down for more length. I also love the fit. I am a curvy girl and I purchased my regular size 32. I anticipate they will give a bit, but better too lose than too tight. I would suggest trying them on in a store if you are able to, especially if you are unsure of sizing up or down.

But I love them! Can’t wait to wear them on my vacation!.

The perfect Jean shorts! This pair of shorts is cut to perfection! As a curvy girl with a small waist, thick thighs and a backside to match. it is hard to find denim shorts that don’t cut into your thighs and make them look like sausage casings or gap at the waist! I’m always a 30 in Jcrew denim jeans so the 30 is what I went with and the fit is perfect! I just wish that they would make a dark blue denim and light blue denim in this exact style and cut.

I would purchase these in every color available! Another great addition to my wardrobe and this is why I highly recommend Jcrew.

I wish I could buy them in every color. The fit is terrific. Fitted, but not tight, while still being comfortable! I love them. I run between size 28 and 29 depending on the style. Bought these in 28 and they’re perfect.

Highly recommend!.

Per the description I was expecting a mid rise. This has an uncomfortably high rise of nearly 11 inches. No thanks, I don’t need shorts that go up to my chin. Bavk they go. J. Crew: please make some true mid rise shorts as not everyone loves this mom jean high rise trend (especially those of us with small hips, long legs and short torsos).

My measurements: 5’5”, 195 lbs, 33in waist, 45 in hips (pear shaped body), 27in thighs, size 13 purchased My review: As a pear shaped person, it is literally so hard to find shorts and pants that fit me well and doesn’t gap at the waist or squeeze the life out of my thighs.

These were just perfect. They are stretchy but don’t have the look of “jegging” material. I was able to slide them right on without jumping up and down to get them up and I didn’t need to suck in anything to get them to button.

Definitely stick to your normal size on these. I know sometimes when you wash denim it shrinks a size, but because these are so stretchy I don’t think it would have that problem. They’re also the perfect length.

I have a pretty big butt so it covers it all perfectly but isn’t awkwardly long. Def recommend.

I loved the shorts completely!!! So stretchy so comfortable I bought them in the medium denim dark denim and black. The black ones were a little tight when I try to button them but not that tight I feel like once I break them in they will loosen up.

The dark denim and the Medium denim literally look the same I didn’t really recognize any difference between the two truly thought I got two of the same pair of jeans so I’m glad I have two pairs with a literally look exactly the same so if you’re not looking to purchase two of the same pairs I would definitely just recommend me to getting medium or dark unless you don’t mind.

Other than that though the shorts were really cute.

I love these Dad shorts so much! I’m a 29 in Abercrombie Curve Love so I bought the 29 in Medium and Light Destroy. I love the Medium color – the frayed hem and small rips are so cute. The fit is true to size but a bit looser since the Dad jean style is supposed to have more room in the leg – which is perfect for my larger thighs! These are very stretchy and not rigid denim which is very comfortable to sit and walk in.

I wasn’t too fond of the Light Destroy color – the color was bland, they made my butt look weird, and the normal hem just didn’t do anything for me. Overall I really love this style and am so happy to have finally found a pair of comfortable, stylish denim shorts!.

Please restock your sizes! I tried these shorts in the black wash and the light wash (which was beautiful). These definitely run large, I’m usually size 25-26 (5’6 120 lb) and tried on size 27 which were way too big and size 24 which fit perfectly – I would probably size up to 25 for a tiny bit more room.

I think the black ones run even larger than the regular washes. These styles are super flattering though! They are slightly looser around the thighs but flatter your bum really well. I felt very comfy in these shorts bc you never have to worry about showing too much butt, but they are so cute on!.