If you were to rattle off some of the key staples that act as the foundational elements in your summer wardrobe, shorts would undoubtedly rank high on that list. More specifically, denim shorts. As the cool cousin to your favorite jeans, cutoffs bring that effortlessness to any ‘fit. And while there are a range of silhouettes out there to choose from, I scrolled through all my favorite shops to uncover the chicest (and most popular) styles on the internet.
Instead of simply reporting on my findings, I took it a step further by trying on the best pairs I found and lending them my personal reviews. I’m very pick when it comes to denim shorts and have a checklist of specific details that a prospective pair needs to have before I’ll consider adding it to my closet. If you’re just as wary of denim shorts or are simply curious to see which pairs I’m recommending, then look no further. Just up ahead, see the results of my try-on and to read my reviews of each pair.
I took several factors into consideration when choosing the pairs I eventually landed on. I first made a short list of the most popular denim brands around, including names like Levi’s and Agolde, and cross-referenced it with the best-selling pairs on retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, Revolve, and Amazon to land on a number of the best denim shorts that are both beloved by reviewers and also appealing to a discerning editor like myself. Once I ordered a near-dozen pairs to my apartment, I did the legwork (literally) and tried them all on. Here, I whittled my list of favorites down to five standout pairs that really wowed me.
My review: Okay, Abercrombie, I see you. I didn’t know what to expect before trying this pair, although the many glowing reviews on their website definitely persuaded me, and I have to say, I’m thoroughly impressed. Not only are these extremely comfortable thanks to their 99:1 cotton to elastane ratio but they hit at the perfect mid-thigh length that gives me coverage without looking awkward. I can’t corroborate this, but my friend did let me know that they looked good from the backside, too. Customer review: “Perfect shorts. High rise with full coverage. Doesn’t look too long or awkward and doesn’t bunch up. Would buy 100 times over.” — Abercrombie reviewer
Pros: Comfortable fabric. Mid-length shape. Cons: Not as baggy as described
My review: In case I haven’t already mentioned this, I’m very picky when it comes to denim shorts. But not only did this pair end up really impressing me when I tried them on, I also loved them so much that I immediately packed them for an upcoming beach trip. They’re relaxed throughout the thighs and sit lower on my hips for a slouchy, lived-in feel. I loved the way they looked here with a pair of kitten heels, but could easily see throwing them on over a swimsuit at the beach because the denim is quite thin and light. Customer review: “Can’t say enough good things about these! Didn’t find the fit larger like other reviewers, I bought my normal denim size and the fit it great around the waist and through the leg.” — Shopbop reviewer
Pros: Thin and lightweight denim. Relaxed fit. Cons: Not the most flattering fit
My review: Levi’s has officially entered the chat. Seeing as I’ve been living in my vintage pairs for years now, I thought it was only right that I finally see what the brand is offering in the way of shorts. I went with the 501 Original style that bring in elements of the iconic jeans like a high-rise fit, button fly, and 100% cotton body. With thousands of rave reviews all around the internet from Amazon to Nordstrom, I had high hopes for this pair and while they definitely delivered on the quality and fabric, they were also the shorts with the smallest inseam of any I tried for this edit. I found them to be a tad snug in the leg even though they fit well in the waist and would have sized up for a better fit. Customer review: “These 501’s should be a staple in every wardrobe. Perfect fit although they run a little small.” — Levi’s reviewer
Pros: Button fly. 100% cotton fabric. Comes in many wash options. Cons: Shorter than anticipated
My review: If a pair of teeny tiny cutoffs has ever made you put off from denim shorts entirely, then I have just the pair you need to see. The Scout Shorts from cool-girl label EB Denim are the antithesis of traditional Daisy Dukes and instead are just about the coolest pair I think I’ve ever put on my body. Their sized to be low-slung and oversized, but somehow manage to avoid jorts territory. These are the pair I’d want to reach for with heels and a little going-out top for a more downtown vibe.
Pros: Weighty denim feel. Baggy but not too baggy shape. Cons: Investment price tag
My review: I loved how roomy these were in the rear and leg—so much so that I could have run a mile in them. That said, many of the reviews mentioned how big they were and I have to agree, this is definitely a style I would size down in since I found them to fit way too wide. Customer review: “Was hopeful that these would fit and be flattering and these didn’t fail. Couldn’t be happier!” — Nordstrom reviewer
Pros: Roomy and comfortable in the leg. Cons: Fits on the bigger side, consider sizing down
