There are a lot of ways to rock shorts during the summer: short sets, sweat shorts, and Daisy Dukes for festival attire. And bring it on, we say — after a dreary gray winter staying inside, there’s nothing we want more than to liberate our legs from the confines of matching sweatsuits. While we might be spoiled for choice regarding this hot-weather clothing category, one style reigns supreme as a seasonal classic: high-waisted denim shorts.
If summer were a garment, high-rise denim shorts would be IT. But that doesn’t mean they’re easy to shop for. With factors like length, material, and the potential for chafing to consider, finding the right option is more complex than shopping for a breezy summer dress. To help you fully enjoy the hot spring days and warm summer nights, we tapped the sage advice of internet reviewers to vet a list of top-rated styles. Ahead, shop the high-waisted denim shorts ecstatic cyber shoppers are raving about — from Free People to Madewell to Anthropologie and beyond.
Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Pilcro Signature High-Rise Shorts
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 3 reviews on Anthropologie.com
While Pilcro’s effortless carbon gray denim shorts are still on the newer side with only three reviews, it’s quicky becoming a fan favorite. The shorts have an easy-to-style appearance, with a no-fuss design that you can wear daily and a charming cuffed hem.
“Jean shorts are easy to wear but can look a bit young. At 55, I still have the legs and want to look cute, but not trying to pull off my 20s,” writes a reviewer. “These are a good length and a good fit. The gray/black color isn’t too heavy for summer and looks more put together, yet it still has the jean shirt feel.”
Shop Pilcro At Anthropologie
Pilcro Signature High-Rise Shorts, $, available at Anthropologie
Levi’s 501 High-Rise Denim Shorts
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 248 reviews on FreePeople.com
You can’t get any more classic than a pair of Levi’s. Levi’s 501s are a jean lover’s must-have, as the collection is a modern upgrade of classic designs. Luckily, Free People offers the high-waisted cutoff versions in a wide range of hues, from light to dark washes, with most having a stylish, slightly distressed look.
“These Levi’s 501s are the best shorts on the market right now. I’m 5’5, 105lbs, I ordered a size 24, and they fit true to size,” writes a reviewer. “Plus, I love that Free People offers a more medium-colored wash, not just a light or dark wash. They are not stretchy, so that they will stretch some, but not much. I would highly recommend it.”
Shop Levi’s At Free People
Levi’s 501 High-Rise Denim Shorts, $, available at Free People
& Other Stories Forever Cut Denim Shorts
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 9 reviews on Google.com
Everyone has dealt with their fair share of difficult button-fly denim. We tend to see them on super high-waisted shorts with a shorter inseam, which can cause them to ride up uncomfortably. And if your pants shrink or have no stretch, button flies can be a pain. However, & Other Stories’ Forever Cut Denim Shorts delivers a high-waisted button-fly short that defies all the odds. Say goodbye to denim shorts that shrink after one wash and hello to a forever comfy mid-length style.
“I always wanted to get a pair of mid-length shorts, and this is perfect! This time the description is true: these are real high-waist shorts,” writes a reviewer. “A little setback is that it has a button-up fly instead of a zipper, so it’s slightly tighter.” However, another reviewer loved the button-up fly for the slim-fit look. “I chose these as I was looking for a snug fit on the tummy and looser leg, which I got. It’s a nice thick denim that holds its shape after multiple wears and has no shrinkage when washed.”
Shop & Other Stories
& Other Stories Forever Cut Denim Shorts, $, available at & Other Stories
Everlane The A-Line Denim Short
The Hype: 3.9 out of 5 stars; 115 reviews on Everlane.com
We adore A-line skirts because they effortlessly accentuate your waist; now Everlane has created complementing shorts. One glance at the reviews, and you’ll see plenty of 5-star ratings and customers praising the comfort and fit of the high-waisted shorts.
“I can declare these shorts are my favorite item of clothing I’ve bought in years,” raves a reviewer. “I rarely feel my most confident in shorts, but these are magic — waist and butt flattering, long enough for no thigh rub, cute vintage look, stiff and durable feeling but also comfy enough to lounge in. I’m generally a size 6 (5’8 and 150lbs), and the 28 is perfect.”
Shop Everlane
Everlane The A-Line Denim Short, $, available at Everlane
Madewell Curvy High-Rise Denim Shorts in Lunar Wash
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 95 reviews on Madewell.com
For those with an hourglass shape, the curvy fit of this Madewell style is destined for a summer of carefree outfits. It features a narrower waist with a contoured band, a longer rise, and a little extra room around the hip and thigh region for extra comfort.
“I am thick in the middle with toned arms and legs. These shorts… make that booty pop, and are flattering and comfy,” shares a reviewer. “I wear 33 to 34 in Madewell sizes, depending on the jean, I got the 34 in these, and they fit pretty perfectly. A 33 would really snatch it, though. So go a size down to snatch your waist or your regular size for a flattering yet breathable fit. These hit me an inch above the belly button and cut off right after my cheek meets my leg — the perfect summer shorts.”
Shop Madewell
Madewell Curvy High-Rise Denim Shorts In Lunar Wash, $, available at Madewell
Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Dad Short
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 46 reviews on Abercrombie.com
Exude the laid-back vibe of Dad fashion in Abercrombie & Fitch’s trendy pair. The shorts are designed in the brand’s signature Curve Love style, delivering a relaxed fit in the hip and thigh. Did we mention there are also various versatile shades to choose from? Pick your favorite hue, throw on your bucket hat and an oversized white button-down, and glide into some comfy slides to achieve that full “Dad look.”
“I bought these in four colors. These are the perfect summer shorts, short enough to feel a little more modest for a thicker leg,” writes a reviewer. “It prevents chaffing. They don’t look maternal, which often happens to me with longer shorts. I still look trendy and cool in these without sacrificing my comfort.”
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Dad Short, $, available at Abercrombie
H&M Mom Ultra High Denim Shorts
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 732 reviews on HM.com
The slightly wider legs on this style that is not too long but also not too short, making it an oversized and flexible look that fits and feels good. The extra-high waist is key for an itty bitty crop tops you’ve been saving for the hot-weather.
“These shorts are great! The waistband is thick and sturdy enough not to scrunch down too badly when you sit. The length is perfect: short enough to look cute for the summer, but not too short that my bum is coming out of places I don’t want it to and touching hot chairs,” explains a reviewer. “For reference: I am 5’3” and about 135 lbs. Typically I’m between a four and a six, but I bought a four, which fits great even after washing.”
Shop H&M
H&M Mom Ultra High Denim Shorts, $, available at H&M
Gap 10″ High Rise Bermuda Shorts With Washwell
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 11 reviews on Gap.com
Take your pick among the three shades: crisp optic white, medium indigo, and a light indigo with slight distressed detailing. The knee-length Bermuda shorts holds you in at the hip and waist for a secure feel and are easy to move around in. It’s the high-waisted Bermuda shorts that you didn’t know you needed.
“Nice fitting shorts! Ready for spring and summer! These Bermuda shorts are really comfortable and fun to style,” writes a reviewer.
Shop Gap
Gap 10″ High Rise Bermuda Shorts With Washwell, $, available at Gap
AGOLDE Parker Distressed Denim Shorts
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 180 reviews on Nordstrom.com
As you prep for your festival outfits, don’t forget a pair of distressed denim shorts. The style will never fail you and matches any graphic T-shirt, bralette, or corset top that you’re debating. AGOLDE has a thin, airy relaxed-fit kind with ragged, raw-edge hems that’ll keep you cool while dancing and fashionable in pics.
“You might love these if you typically don’t love yourself in cutoffs. They are the perfect combination of super flattering, sexy, cool shorts,” shares a reviewer.
Shop AGOLDE At Nordstrom
Agolde Parker Distressed Denim Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom
The Short Shorts
For something soft, stretchy, and short (with a capital S) that still manages to keep its shape, consider this AE pair designed for curves with more room through the hip and thigh.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 39 reviews on AE.com
What They’re Saying: “Wow, I had sworn off shorts for years and years. I tentatively ordered these and they fit *like a glove.* I am built with a small waist, big booty, and huge thighs; I carry most of my weight in my lower half. The stretch is fantastic and my booty looks AMAZING; the fabric and cut are really flattering. The wash, fade, and distressing are stylish without being excessive for an early-30s millennial. Looking forward to wearing these all summer.” — Shetland Pony, AE.com reviewer
Shop AE.com
AE Ne(x)t Level Curvy Super High-Waisted Denim Short Short, $, available at AE
The Cool-Moms-Only Shorts
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 12 reviews on hm.com
What They’re Saying: “Amazing beautiful marvelous will buy in any other color they make! 10/10.” — Anonymous, hm.com reviewer
Shop hm.com
H&M Mom High Denim Shorts, $, available at H&M
The ’90s Style
Combine an A-line shape with a planet-friendly TENCEL fabric and a classic vintage silhouette and you’ve hit the sartorial trifecta for your next summer staple.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 17 reviews on levi.com
What They’re Saying: “I love these so much. You can tell the fabric is really great quality. Note that they don’t have any kind of stretch though. But that being said, they definitely run a little large but that just makes them even comfier since they have room. I’ve always struggled with having a smaller waist and large thighs so usually shorts are impossible for me to find. These are the best shorts I’ve ever gotten. Perfect room in my thighs while not being too large in the waist. If they do these in more colors I might cry.” — Sarah, levi.com reviewer
Shop levi.com
Levi’s High Loose Women’s Shorts, $, available at Levi’s
The Going-Out Shorts
A cheeky pair without actually showing any cheek, these 100% cotton shorts hug the body in all the right spots and feature summer-ready party pants.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 15 reviews on urbanoutfitters.com
What They’re Saying: “Super cute. My fav going out shorts, I love them so!! They pair perfectly with anything.” — Sarah, urbanoutfitters.com reviewer
Shop urbanoutfitters.com
BDG High-Waisted Cheeky Denim Short, $, available at Urban Outffiters
The Every Body Shorts
Khloé Kardashian believes that fashion “should be made to fit women, not the other way around” and these Good American shorts prove it’s possible. They’re made to fit every body from an easy-moving stretch-denim fabric.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 43 reviews on Nordstrom.com
What They’re Saying: “I looooove these shorts so much! they are so soft and stretchy but also provide some much-needed structure for us curvy girls. Super comfy!” — Carolina G., Nordstrom.com reviewer
Shop Nordstrom.com
Good American Curve High Waist Denim Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom
The Light-as-a-Feather Pair
These ultra-high waisted shorts have a flattering and relaxed fit that is made even better by what readers agree is a fabulously lightweight fabric. One of them had just a single word to capture it all: “Perfect!”
The Hype: 4.5 out of 4 stars; 13 reviews on Eloquii.com
What They’re Saying: “Really glad I decided to purchase these on a hunch. The jeans are well made and super flattering. The legs are wider than I imagined, but I pair them with a crop top or bandeau to balance the lookout. They are super flattering and comfy. They didn’t ride as well. Would def recommend especially if you are hourglass-shaped.” — Lo, Eloquii.com reviewer
Shop Eloquii.com
Eloquii High Waisted Denim Shorts, $, available at Eloquii
The No-Brainer
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 47 reviews on Madewell.com
What They’re Saying: “I generally do not like shorts, I feel like I can never get the right fit! I love the length of these but they aren’t too long and grandma like either. The high-waisted stretch is perfect for denim shorts. Highly recommend!
I originally sized up and bought a 28, because I generally like my shorts a lil’ big but ended up returning for my normal size of 27. I’d stick with your normal size, they are slightly roomy and comfy!” — Jenna7, Madewell.com reviewer
Shop Madewell.com
Madewell The Curvy Perfect Jean Short, $, available at Madewell
The Curve Hugger
High-rising, hip-hugging, soft-feeling shorts that reviewers can’t stop raving about because they’re so totally comfortable.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 12 reviews on Torrid.com
What They’re Saying: “These fit like a DREAM! I love how soft they are and they are not too stretchy.
The shorts are the perfect length and aren’t too revealing. I would give them more stars if I could. Definitely recommend to friends/ family.” — Aware, Torrid.com reviewer
Shop Torrid.com
Torrid High Rise Shortie Short, $, available at Torrid
The All-Day, Every-Day Pair
Casual enough for the beach, cool enough for a night out, these shorts make summer dressing simple — and stylish.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 66 reviews on Pacsun.com
What They’re Saying: “The most flattering and well-fitting shorts I’ve ever had. I have multiple of these for that reason. They are the only shorts that fit my waist and my hips perfect without having to compromise one fit for the other!” — Katie M., PacSun.com reviewer
Shop PacSun.com
PacSun Amber Denim Mom Shorts, $, available at PacSun
The Lived-In Look
Nothing says summer like a cool and slouchy pair of denim shorts with a distressed, too-cool-for-school appeal.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 25 reviews on FreePeople.com
What They’re Saying: “Nice shorts! These shorts are so cute! I love the slit on the sides. I also love that they are a little baggy and longer.” — Jennrenbat, FreePeople.com reviewer
Shop FreePeople.com
We The Free | Free People Baggy Tomboy Short, $, available at Free People
The 5-out-of-5
What makes for a perfect pair of shorts? According to a slew of happy shoppers, it’s the high waist, the perfect fit, and the comfy material.
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 25 reviews on Kohls.com
What They’re Saying: “I’m honestly super picky about shorts and didn’t expect much from these but I really like them. They’re super comfortable, actually high rise (they sit above my belly button) and they’re long enough that my thighs don’t stick together while I walk around during the hot summer (so attractive, right?). I got the dark rinse and am highly considering getting more colors.” — anjieb, Kohls.com reviewer
Shop Kohls.com
Nine West Button-Front High-Waisted Denim Shorts, $, available at Kohl’s
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