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I love denim shorts for summer—it’s a classic that can be dressed up or down, and these jean shorts women adore are refreshing and so versatile!
Best Jean Shorts for Women
Table Of Contents
Who doesn’t love cute denim shorts for the summer! I personally adore sliding on a pair with a white tee or sleeveless top and my fave sandals. (Don’t forget those sunglasses too!)
Womens jean shorts have come a long way, gone are the days of heavier fabrics and cotton blends are a lot more lightweight.
While I don’t always bring a pair with me on trips, on the occasions I do for summer getaways, they’re super versatile for lounging around, hanging at the beach, or enjoying a fun day of exploring.
Check up a round-up of my current faves!
Summer Ready Denim Shorts Women Love
Shop Sizes 2-24: Amazon
Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Women’s Denim Shorts
I feel like nobody can go wrong with comfortable denim shorts like this rolled boyfriend style by Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. These have a “natural” fray, with a high mid-rise, and come in three cute colors and up to plus size. Nor are these stiff due to the soft cotton, and elastane blend.
Users say this womens denim short is “breathable, roomy, and have great stretch”. Really, a staple like this can dazzle any of your fave summer tops!
Shop Sizes 16-26: Amazon
Lee Plus Size Jean Shorts
Bermuda jean shorts are always popular for summer days and nights. This one is made from a combination of cotton, polyester, and spandex so there’s a bit of stretch to them.
Described as “Very soft, and they have a lot of stretch to them, but still have structure.,” these beauties are mid-rise and they’re a dark wash which means they can be spruced up with a pretty short-sleeved blouse and dressy flip flops, or a casual top and slip-ons. This is a stellar option as plus size denim shorts, offered in sizes 16-26 plus.
Shop Sizes 0-14: H&M
Editor’s Pick for Fit: High Waisted Denim Shorts
Confession: I love it when women jean shorts are dressed up! H&M’s Embrace collection (currently sold out) is perfect for women with curves and mega fashionable as well. I wear a size 26 at 108 lbs, size 27 at 115 lbs, and size 28 at 126 lbs, so the range is pretty comprehensive.
Their blue jean shorts have pretty detailing, 5-pockets, and I simply can’t get over the flattering flit. Some of the material is recycled cotton too, so it’s more sustainable!
Sidenote: I adore the Embrace jeans (currently sold out), too! Such a good fit for curvy hips with narrower waist.
Shop Sizes 23-37: J.Crew
J. Crew Relaxed Denim Shorts
These adorable J.Crew white jean shorts are made from sustainable cotton with a lot of stretch built in. They’re cozy, yet stylish and contemporary. The ecru color or waterside wash color shorts are a nice departure from standard blue denim.
If you want the best womens jean shorts, this brand is a TFG reader bonafide favorite. These shorts will polish up nicely for a beach club party or seaside cocktail hour. They come in sizes 23-37.
Shop Sizes 24-34 Regular and 35-40 Plus: Amazon
Mid-Rise Levi Jean Shorts
I couldn’t do a list of my faves without including a pair of Levi denim shorts. They’re a classic brand with an amazing history and they’re still going strong today. Wearers describe them as classy, soft, and dang comfortable!
This Levi jean shorts womens style is super cute, made of polyester and cotton, and come in a tons of colors, and you can buy them from several retailers. A true summer go-to when paired with a tank, tee, and sneakers or sandals.
Shop Sizes 0-14: H&M
Editor’s Pick for Edge Look: H&M High Waisted Jean Shorts
These black denim shorts are a bit shorter and trendier with a high waist fit. As you know, I wear black a lot so this shade or even a denim blue color looks fab at the beach or at festivals, not exactly for city trips.
I love how the hem is sewn over so it won’t unfold or roll down at a public washroom or port-a-potty situation. Users say these are cozy, but because they’re high-waist it might be wise to size up. Overall, super cute for women that love short jean shorts!
Shop 0-30: Old Navy
Old Navy Denim Shorts Plus-Size With Secret Slim Pockets
These plus size Old Navy jean shorts are a bit ‘90s inspired, with a straight shape and scoop pockets (with a coin pocket, no less) but the high-rise waistband is comfy.
Reviewers say the length isn’t too skimpy, and the rolled-up cuffs add some polish. Also described as soft, these really are flattering for all shapes, with an attractive price tag to boot ($37)!
Shop Sizes 0-16: Nordstrom
Kut From the Kloth Distressed Denim Shorts
These comfy-looking distressed bermuda jean shorts have a “worn” in, casual vibe with frayed edges that would wear well on a summer vacation.
These fairly cheap denim shorts still have quality elements such as stretchy cotton-spandex fabric and durable stitching. Wearers say these fit well, are comfortable, and great for curvier figures.
Wear a fitted classic white tee or dress up with a lightweight linen button-down top and sandals.
Shop Sizes 0-18: Nordstrom
Kut from the Kloth Womens Frayed Denim Shorts
This frayed edge jean short has a modern, cool feel and a perfect true blue color like this looks more expensive, yet these are well under $40.
So simple with a straight fit and mid-waist, you could pair these fashionable denim shorts with a button-down chambray for a chic, casual appearance. And don’t forget some sassy espadrilles!
Shop Sizes 23-33: Madewell
Madewell Frayed Cut Off Jean Shorts
Tencel is said to be super soft and breathable, which is why these highrise jean shorts are a must-have. They have a sophisticated, yet easy fit, with a more relaxed look. The raw-edged hemline gives them a boho feel too!
Available in sizes 23-33, wearers say these high rise denim shorts are “versatile and comfortable.” Venture out with these wearing a tank top and sneakers to dress casual, or a linen peasant blouse and strappy sandals to dress it up.
Best Denim Shorts Womens Comparison Chart
| Summer Ready Denim Shorts Women Love | ||
|
Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Women’s Denim Shorts |
“breathable, roomy, and have great stretch” | Check Price |
|
Lee Plus Size Jean Shorts |
“amazingly comfortable due to the flexible waistband,” | Check Price |
|
Editor’s Pick for Fit: High Waisted Denim Shorts |
I simply can’t get over the flattering flit. Some of the material is recycled cotton too, so it’s more sustainable! | Check Price |
|
J. Crew Relaxed Denim Shorts |
They’re cozy, yet stylish and contemporary. | Check Price |
|
Mid-Rise Levi Jean Shorts |
A true summer go-to when paired with a tank, tee, and sneakers or sandals. | Check Price |
|
Editor’s Pick for Edge Look: H&M High Waisted Jean Shorts |
I love how the hem is sewn over so it won’t unfold or roll down at a public washroom or port-a-potty situation. | Check Price |
|
Old Navy Denim Shorts Plus-Size With Secret Slim Pockets |
Reviewers say the length isn’t too skimpy, and the rolled-up cuffs add some polish. Also described as soft, these really are flattering for all shapes, with an attractive price tag to boot ($37)! | Check Price |
|
Kut From the Kloth Distressed Denim Shorts |
These fairly cheap denim shorts still have quality elements such as stretchy cotton-spandex fabric and durable stitching. Wearers say these fit well, are comfortable, and great for curvier figures. | Check Price |
|
Kut from the Kloth Womens Frayed Denim Shorts |
So simple with a straight fit and mid-waist. | Check Price |
|
Madewell Frayed Cut Off Jean Shorts |
“versatile and comfortable.” | Check Price |
With Wanderlust Wrap, Adea Tank Top, Yosi SamraFlats, and Rebecca Minkoff Bag
What to Wear With Jean Shorts?
If I’m on a short getaway and have my comfortable jean shorts with me I’ll usually pair them with a stylish, yet walkable sandal or flat and revolve one to three tops with it: a tee, a tank, and a dressier sleeveless blouse. Sometimes, I’ll also wear a wrap for chillier evenings if by the sea.
I tend to like the frayed denim shorts style but overall, any jean shorts featured in the list above are so versatile.
With Michael Stars Top and Aerosole Sandals
Depending on the weather (some summer days are hotter than others), a denim shorts outfit can be uber casual with a classic t-shirt, airy tank top, a 3/4 length shirt, comfortable slip-on sneakers or some stylin’ flip flops.
Ladies denim shorts can take on many activities, from very light trail hiking or park walks to market and urban exploring. You can add jewelry, hats, belts, light jacket or wrap, and your favorite bag to imbue more interest. (Again, never forgot those sunglasses to top off your summertime look!)
With merino wool top and Encircled Scarf
For dressing up, high waist denim shorts have a bit more sophistication, which looks amazing with an elegant draped top and some sandal wedges.
Essentially, womens blue jean shorts can almost act like a neutral, one that’s classic and instantly recognizable.
Overall, it’s about playing with colors, styles of tops and shoes, and then coming up with denim shorts outfits that make you feel as good as you look!
Traveling With Denim Jean Shorts? Here’s How to Pack Them
If you’re planning a getaway with your cute jean shorts, packing cubes will change the way you pack. I designed my own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where I’ve packed everything—even my summer shorts!
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped me travel carry-on only!
What is your favorite denim short for women? Share your top pick below!
For more women’s shorts, please read:
- Stylish Summer Shorts for Women: Must-Have Vacation Essentials
- Cute Summer Shorts for Women: 8 Trends to Buy Right Now
- Should You Wear Shorts in Paris…Ever?
- Get Creative! DIY Denim Shorts for Women
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What about casual capris for women 60+ years who don’t want to run around with not—so-lovely knees!? Also other summer styles, blouses, etc that won’t be snug even for women of average weight. Thanks!
Hi Katherine, thank you for reaching out. Have a look at this article where we feature a range of different options for shorts including different lengths: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/summer-shorts-for-women/
Then for blouses and other tops we have a wide range of articles featuring different styles, you can check them all out here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/category/fashion/travel-clothing-for-women/travel-tops/ Hope this helps!