Since we are heading hard and fast into summer, I've been living in denim shorts and wanted to do a deep dive on some of my favorite styles. From shorty, mid-length, and bermuda, to ripped and non-ripped, light wash, and medium wash, there’s definitely a style and length for everyone! Below are the six styles I consider the best denim shorts out there. Some are fairly new while others are tried and true, but they’re all my favorites and what I wear most often and will continue to wear season after season. Don't forget to check out my favorite denim jeans guide!
Editor's Note: I'm 5'10 and my normal jean size is 25.
AGOLDE Denim Shorts
Are AGOLDE denim shorts worth the hype? 100% yes. My first pair of AGOLDE denim shorts were the Parker in the wash swapmeet which I bought over two years ago. They are definitely my most worn and lived-in pair. AGOLDE Parker shorts sizing is pretty straight forward as they do fit true to size. However, since they are on the shorter size and I'm 5'10, I opted to size up for a more relaxed fit, which I'm so glad I did! Since they are 100% cotton the AGOLDE Parker shorts will stretch out, but after wash/dry, they recover to the original fit. My newest pair of AGOLDE denim shorts are the AGOLDE Dee Super High Rise. In terms of high waisted denim shorts, they are amazing. While they’re fairly similar to the Parker, their high rise and longer inseam set them apart. The Dee Super High rise does run small though, so you definitely need to size up! If you're wondering about AGOLDE Jaden vs. Parker denim shorts are pretty much the same; the Jaden is basically the high rise version of the Parker. Bottom line: AGOLDE are worth the splurge and some of the best ripped denim shorts out there!
AGOLDE - Parker Vintage Cutoff Shorts
- Wash: Swapmeet
- 100% Cotton - no stretch
- Inseam: 2 1/2" - button fly
- Fit TTS - I sized up for relaxed fit (size 26)
AGOLDE - Dee Super High Rise Shorts
- Wash: Ricochet
- 100% Cotton - no stretch
- Inseam: 4" - button fly
- Runs small go up 1 size - wearing size 26
Abercrombie Denim Shorts
Consider this my official Abercrombie shorts review: I LOVE THEM. Okay but seriously, after last year, Abercrombie quickly became on of my favorite places for on-trend denim. During the fall and winter months, I couldn't get enough of their jeans, and as soon as spring/summer rolled around, the same held true for their denim shorts. This season I picked up two new pairs that I practically live in! The first pair is their regular fit shorts which run true to size and are a great pair of raw hem jean shorts. The second pair is from their curve love line, which features and extra 2" through the hips. These are great and what I consider some of the best jean shorts for moms, especially. To ensure ultimate comfort, I suggest sizing up this pair for a more relaxed fit! You’ll have no shortage of denim short outfit ideas with either pair of these.
Abercrombie - Mid Rise Boyfriend Shorts
- Image is from 2020 - link is updated wash for 2021
- Wash: Light Ripped Wash
- 100% Cotton - no stretch
- Inseam: 3 5/8" - zipper fly
- Fit TTS - wearing a 25
Abercrombie - Curve Love Mid Rise Boyfriend Shorts
- Image is from 2020 - link is updated wash for 2021
- Wash: Light Destroyed Wash
- 100% Cotton - no stretch
- Inseam: 3 5/8" - zipper fly
- Fit TTS - I sized up for relaxed fit (size 26)
Everlane Denim Shorts
You already know my love for Everlane runs deep, so of course when I found out about their two newest denim shorts I had to try them out ASAP. These more classic denim shorts are a great basic to have, and I love the option to roll or unroll them depending on how you prefer to style that day. The 90s cheeky shorts, the longer pair featured, is a great style for those that want extra length and are looking for the best jean shorts for tummy control. They hold it all in and lift the booty—what more could you ask for?! Both pairs of Everlane denim shorts have a raw hem and can be worn rolled or unrolled.
Everlane - The Denim Short
- Wash: Distressed
- 100% Cotton - no stretch
- Inseam: 3 1/2" (rolled) - zipper fly
- Fit TTS - wearing size 25
Everlane - 90s Cheeky Denim Short
- Wash: Distressed Indigo
- 100% Cotton - no stretch
- Inseam: 8" (unrolled) - button fly
- Fit TTS - wearing size 25
Outfit Details
T-Shirt | Hermes Sandals (similar) | Celine Belt Bag | Similar Sunglasses
Photos: Arielle Levy
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The Abercrombie mid-lengths are something I need to get. I like how it’s frayed.
I was wondering if the agolde dee high rise shorts stretch out after wearing at all. I’m trying to decide between a 26 and 27. Both fit but the 26 fit tighter in the leg area (which I like) and the 27 is more comfortable overall but a little too loose in the thighs. It’s not quite as flattering. I guess I’d rather go with the 26 if they stretch a bit with wearing but if not, I’ll keep the 27.
I don’t find them to stretch/relax as much as the Parker shorts did. Hope this helps!
awesome! thanks for breaking the shorts down…my favorite