The 13 Best Shorts for Women in 2024

It’s time: At long last, we’ve arrived at exposed-knee weather. Open-toed shoes are once again functional, jackets are a mere afterthought, and your summer wardrobe needs some fresh consideration. Namely: Shorts.  Despite their seasonality, shorts are a truly versatile garment. There’s a short for every occasion: You’ve got your old school frayed-hem denim shorts (jorts, if you will), your board shorts, and your spandex bike shorts. You’ve got your skorts, your linen beach cover-ups, your short-and-blazer sets. And while some skew more fundamentally work-appropriate than others, it’s just a matter of finding a roster of summer pairs that suit all of your needs—from hiking to tanning to dining out. 

That’s why we talked to stylists, vintage curators, and of-the-moment shop owners about short shopping, styling advice, and summer fashion on the whole. Ahead, take a look at our heavily-vetted selects for the best pairs of shorts to shop right now.

Our Top Picks

Why We Love It: Great denim shorts can often skew so far into the short-shorts territory, they more closely resemble high-waisted underwear. And to a fault, it often seems like the best pairs of easy, distressed, authentically vintage jorts are such. That’s what makes this pair the perfect addition to the denim short oeuvre. Not only do they come in classic washes—light blue, white, and washed black—but they’re effortlessly high-waisted, slouchy enough to be roomy and comfortable, and long enough to ensure that your business is covered. 

Who It’s For: Made of 100 percent cotton denim with a zipper and a button closure, these are your throw-on shorts of the summer. In a perfect A-line cut, they’re designed to flatter any shape without entering form-fitting territory. And with a 5-inch inseam, they’re the sorts of shorts you can wear to the beach, or your grandmother’s birthday party. 

Size: 23–34 | Material: Cotton denim

Why We Love It: If you’re a carpenter-pant kind of girl, why not lean into carpenter shorts as well? These have the same many-pocketed, utilitarian vibe of your standard Dickies, but they’re, well, shorter. “I love a unisex carpenter short,” says Emma Zack, who curates exceptional plus-size vintage as well as reworked garments through her shop, Berriez. “I actually share mine with my boyfriend.” With heavy-duty, reinforced stitching, utility pockets, and a hammer loop (for your trusty hammer, of course), these shorts are made with a durable cotton-twill blend sure to last for many summers to come. They're also under $50.

Who It’s For: For folks who love a relaxed fit, these are easy, go-to, throw on shorts—complete with a high waist and 3-inch seams. They’re roomy enough to pair easily with tanks and tees, breathable enough for all-day wear, and long enough to ensure that they won’t rise up or cause chafing (while you’re doing all of your tough carpentry work, naturally). Plus, in four neutral color options, you’ve got range.

Size: 24–34 | Material: Cotton twill 

Why We Love It: “These are the easiest everyday short.” says Elise Ballegeer, owner and buyer at ultra trendy Manhattan boutique, Lahn Shop. “They have a vintage style, a flattering length, and an elasticized waistband in the back for comfort. Plus they come in a myriad of colors to match your mood and are super breathable.” Made from an organic cotton and hemp blend, these mid-length shorts give off a distinct vintage Venice Beach aura. 

Who It’s For: Complete with wide, workwear-style pockets and reinforced belt loops, these are your go-to skate shorts (whether or not you…actually skate). And, given that the garment comes in a full cornucopia of colors, you’ve got options for just about any outfit/occasion/general vibe you’re seeking out.

Size: XS–2XL | Material: Cotton, hemp

Why We Love It: These poplin shorts are basically a renaissance painting in sartorial form. Cut so as to resemble an oversized basketball short with an elastic waistband, long roomy inseams, and pockets, these effortlessly elegant bottoms are certainly not designed for athleticism. Decorated at the hem with a perfect, illustrated floral trim along a wavy stripe of oceanic, baby blue these shorts give the appearance of something hand painted. Paired with a swimsuit or a tiny (going out) top, they scream vacation just as surely as they scream night-on-the-town.

Who It’s For: Yes, these shorts are a splurge. But the truth is, walking around in long slung, designer poplin shorts in the dead of summer is a gift. You’ll feel like a cloud, essentially. And if you take into consideration the art deco decadence of the trim, these really are a work of art (by the transitive property, that makes you a work of art). 

Size: XS/XL | Material: Poplin cotton

Why We Love It: This is the future of the beach cover-up, y’all. For those of us tired of classic sarongs and knit maxi dresses, it’s time for a proper, crocheted set with board-length shorts and a button-up top (all of which, yes, can of course be worn casually around town as well, beach aside). Made with 100 percent Peruvian cotton, these are crafted in a woman-owned and run factory in Peru—and the native Peruvian yarn (called tangüis) is much lauded for its soft touch, strength, excellent absorption, and high dye affinity.

Who It’s For: “Comfortable and chic!” says Zack. “I even have the matching top. I wear them with a baggy tee or to the beach with my bathing suit underneath.” For folks looking to lean into the crochet/knitwear trend without going full-on “festival fashion,” this set is a perfectly elevated, fun take on hand-woven garments. 

Size: XS–2XL | Material: Peruvian tangüis cotton

Why We Love It: “As a big fan of Sex and the City, capri pants are my favorite trend of the year,” says stylist and content creator, Karina Vozniuk. “In spite of the critics, I think capris are sexy and chic. I wear them with sheer top, mules, and round sunglasses. ‘90s runway-inspired!” In a light, neutral wash, these form-fitting capris hit just below the knee, with a mid-rise waist and a zipper fly. Made with regenerated cotton (with just 3 percent elastane thrown in there) these are designed to stay taught as ever, with just enough stretch to champion your curves. 

Who It’s For: There’s no denying it: Capris are the movement of the summer. At some point, we’re all going to get on board—but for now, those opting for the mid-calf pant are still the trailblazers. If you’re looking to be ahead of the sartorial curve, try this (affordable) pair with a healed sandal and a structured top. We assure you, you’ll be on the right side of fashion history. 

Size: 23–33 | Material: Regenerated cotton, elastane

Why We Love It: Everyone needs a perfect, essential pair of biker shorts (sorry, we don’t make the rules). Whether you sport them with an oversized button-down à la Tom Hanks, as a safety measure with some ultra-short slip dress, or….for actual biking, we suppose, this Beyond Yoga pair does it all. “These are the softest bike shorts ever,” says Zack. “They don't ride up, and I wear them to work out and under dresses or skirts to avoid chafing.” With a 7-inch inseam, they won’t skew towards proper *booty shorts,* and the high waist is designed to flatter without sacrificing comfort. 

Who It’s For: These buttery-soft, ultra stretchy shorts are made with a blend of 87 percent polyester, and 13 percent elastane—and they’re the optimal short for anyone looking to maximize on comfort this summer. The moisture-wicking performance fabric will move with you, without losing softness or stretching out throughout the day. 

Size: XXS–4XL | Material: Polyester and elastane blend 

Why We Love It: When it comes to finding ways to dress up your shorts, a longer inseam is an easy way to lend an air of sophistication or elegance to the mix. “Pair your Bermuda shorts with a printed top and a linen blazer and off you go,” says Ballegeer. In a tailored black polyester-rayon blend (with just a touch of elastane thrown in), these wide leg shorts, which fall mid-knee, offer a lengthening, flattering silhouette (without skewing towards form-fitting) and they make for great chafe-guards in the summer months. 

Who It’s For: “I love a long short, and I definitely believe they’re the best option when you need your look to feel a bit more elevated,” adds Ballegeer. And with crisp front pleats, these chic Bermuda shorts can go from beach-ready to business casual instantly, depending on how you style them. 

Size: 26–31 | Material: Cotton denim

Why We Love It: In a fun, kitschy blue-checked print, these Ilana Kohn culottes are enough to convince all the capri naysayers to reconsider. While these are still more long short than short pants, they’re a breezy, maximalist staple to introduce some added flair into any casual summer ‘fit. ”I don't love a short short, so I love how these cut at the knee,” says Zack. “Ilana Kohn size 1X always fits me perfectly, and I love the checker print.” Designed from a scrap of fabric Kohn found at a French flea market, these are the sorts of bottoms that will earn you countless compliments. 

Who It’s For: Made with 100 percent Portuguese cotton in New York City, these culottes are designed to have a slightly oversized fit—so they can either be worn slouched around the hips, or belted at the true waist, all of which is to say, you’ve got plenty of room to play with silhouette here. And for any/all matching set devotees, there’s an equally fun and flashy corresponding jacket on offer. 

Size: XS–3XL | Material: Portuguese cotton

Why We Love It: Track shorts walked so these gingham-detailed shorts could run (...if that is, indeed, a claim you can make about proper track shorts). In a classic black and white gingham print with a cinched, tailored waistband and a loose, breezy leg, these have a vaguely athleisure-like silhouette, but with a much more refined overall effect. Made with a lightweight drapey crepe fabric comprised of 100 percent viscose, they’ll feel non-constricting without appearing overtly casual. 

Who It’s For: When seeking out your ideal picnic short, these are a shoe-in. The fitted waist and relaxed leg make them an easy fit for most body types and the gingham makes for endless wardrobe pairing options (though, you’ll always look fully dressed with a basic white tee and some sandals)—plus their breezy, roomy, and long enough in the inseam to be work appropriate.

Size: 0–12 | Material: Viscose

Why We Love It: In a perfect homage to the ‘90s athlete (or, more specifically, Pauly Bleaker in Juno), these candy apple red shorts make a solid case for introducing far more authentic Wilson garb into your summer wardrobe. Not only is the material actually primed for sweat (and, well, sport), but the white trim, and the ultra-short, high waisted fit make these shorts as sexy as they are athletic-inspired.

Who It’s For: Challengers fans, your premiere summer ‘fit has arrived. “As we all know, fashion is obviously impacted by culture…and 2024 is the year of the Summer Olympics,” says Vozniuk. She recommends a vibe clash, styling shorts like these with a structured button-down and even a tie—but either way, these are tennis-core at its absolute finest. 

Size: XS–XL | Material: Polyester; spandex

Why We Love It: These relay shorts from cult favorite athleisure brand, Outdoor Voices, are as close as you can get to…not wearing shorts at all. While they’re fitted and will certainly stay in place, the fabric is so light and breezy, you might as well wear ‘em to bed as well. With a petite zipper pocket (for keys or a credit card on a run), a signature, branded waistband, and a loose, free-form cut, they’re the kind of shorts that’ll make you want to give up on all other running attire. Made of lightweight, quick-drying recycled polyester fabric, they’ll keep you cool and dry even on the sweatiest days. 

Who It’s For: Not only do these feel like not wearing anything at all, but they also weigh next to nothing—which makes them the perfect short to throw in your suitcase for any travel. They’re comfortable, they’ll pair well with everything (in case you’ve got some particular loud or hard-to-match athletic tops), and they won’t lose their elasticity, even after a number of washes. 

Size: 2XS–3XL | Material: Recycled polyester

Why We Love It: Yes, shorts can be business casual…and these oversized Bermuda shorts are proof. In a light, peachy hue with darted pleats and a mid-weight woven fabric, they have all the sophistication of a perfect trouser, just…shorter. With a tailored waist designed to hug just above the hips, and a loose free-falling fit all the way down to the knee, these are as flattering as they are pristine. Crafted of a blend of polyester, rayon, wool, and elastane, the fabric is dense enough to hold its shape throughout the day. And while you can certainly go full-on business suit with ‘em, you can also dress them down with a tank top and sandals. 

Who It’s For: “I love the length of Bermudas—they always give more complexity to simple outfits,” says Vozniuk. “For example, wear these shorts with a white tank and a blazer, add heels or an accent bag for spice, and there you have it. A great look for any occasion.” For those who aren’t all about breezy, casual summer dressing, these are shorts for folks who are too elegant to be caught dead in jorts. 

Size: XS–L | Material: Polyester, rayon, wool, elastane

What to Keep in Mind

• Material: While we’re all familiar with the classic jort, denim is not, in fact, the sole fabric with which your shorts can be made. If you’re looking for athleticism or extreme weather attire, something moisture-wicking and breathable like polyester would be a great fit. Bike shorts are a wardrobe must—usually made with some blend of polyester, cotton and elastane. Silk is fun if you’re looking for an ultra chic option, and for novelty, things like terry cloth can be a valuable addition to the mix. “I would recommend opting for cotton shorts, which are naturally soft and pleasant to wear—which can also mean denim capris or Bermudas,” says Vozniuk. “You can also go sporty with a nylon option—and you can use them for workouts, too.”
• Cut: Naturally, shorts can come in all kinds of silhouettes—from slouchy and loose-fitting to capris and booty shorts. So, while selecting shorts of your own, it’s key that you look for options that give off precisely the effect you’re seeking out. “I love vintage jorts at the moment, longerline ones that are 100 percent cotton” says Zack, who prefers a lengthier inseam than your standard cutoff jort. “I like a longer cut (right above the knee). And they have to be high-rise!” Long story long, know what you like—and ensure that you’re opting for styles that will make sense in the context of your wardrobe. “I think cut is all about your personal preference these days,” adds Ballegeer. “In general, if you know what pants fit you well, the short version will likely be the same.”
• Size: In terms of sizing, you have plenty of freedom in terms of how, exactly, you wish to proceed. A denim short intended to be high-waisted can still fit slouched around the hips—and the same goes for a number of other styles. “I tend to size up, there’s nothing worse for me personally than too tight shorts. They’re inevitably going to get creases when you sit so I think minimizing any additional pulling or riding up from them being too small is key,” says Ballegeer. And of course, particularly in summer, you’ll want to think about things like body temperature, sweat, and chafing. “I’m always pro comfort, so my shorts can’t be too tight around my waist,” adds Zack. When shopping online, try ordering the same pair in multiple sizes to test for comfort and fit. 

Your Questions, Answered

How do you style your jean shorts?

“I love to style my shorts with an oversized button down shirt. I leave it open and wear a cropped shirt underneath,” advises Ballegeer. “I also tend to lean towards pairing textured knit tops with shorts to get as far away from the bad tourist vibe of shorts and a T-shirt.” Au contraire, you can take a page from Zack’s book and search for a great matching set—a shorts suit if you will. But even without a coordinated top, she has some go-to styling tactics. “I usually pair them with a baggy tee shirt. The other 5 percent of the time I wear it with a tight tank top,” she says. 

On the other hand, for a more elevated or work appropriate look, you might consider a short with a longer inseam, and a heeled shoe. But it’s always nice to pepper some high/low into your look, regardless of what it is. “It depends on my mood, but mostly I wear mini shorts with an oversized top, or with either accent shoes or a bag, as well as sporty shorts with a classic blazer,” says Vozniuk.

How do you know which materials are right for you?

With fabric, it’s important to consider how breathable you’d like your shorts to be. Whether that’s making sure to opt for loose cotton and elastic waist bands, testing out hemp, or going for oversized silk, be sure you’re taking comfort into consideration. “If we’re already wearing shorts then it’s hot, so I seek out breathable/natural fabrics that won’t add to my body’s temperature,” says Ballegeer. 

Oh, and when it comes to shopping for linen, be wary: “Linen is easy to crumple. Think twice before buying unless you’re willing to deal with it,” warns Vozniuk. 

Why Shop With Us

Freelance writer and editor Eliza Dumais has been covering fashion, travel, and wellness for nearly 10 years at a variety of publications. Vintage denim is her kryptonite (yes, it’s an addiction)—both in full-length and shorts form…but she’s equally devoted to the soccer short renaissance (bloke core, baby). All summer, she’s a committed shorts-sporter (over dresses and skirts). For this particular story, she tapped vintage curators, stylists, and shop owners—including Emma Zack, Elise Ballegeer, and Karina Vozniuk—to offer up their shorts wisdom. 

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qrrSrbClnV6YvK57wZ6qrWWjnbyzwNJmnaiqXay8rrHNZm9vb2BsgXU%3D