Where to Find Nice Denim Shorts That Fit Your Style

Measure around your natural waist and fullest hip, then compare those numbers with the size information for any pair you’re considering rather than relying on your usual size alone. For a comfortable fit, think about how the waistband feels when you sit, whether you have enough room through the hips, and where the hem falls when you move.

High-waist denim shorts pair easily with tucked-in tees, cropped tops, and relaxed button-downs, while a longer inseam may be easier to style when you want more coverage. Our guide to high-waist vintage denim shorts can help you think through fit, styling, and care before you choose a pair.

Look at the fabric composition if it’s provided: denim with stretch may feel more flexible, while rigid denim can feel firmer and may change how it fits with wear. Also consider the rise, leg opening, hem finish, and pocket placement, since those details can make two pairs of denim shorts feel and look quite different.

Before washing new denim shorts, read the care label so you know whether they need any special handling, and turn them inside out to help limit surface wear. Washing only when needed and avoiding excessive heat can help preserve the color and shape of many denim garments.