14 Short Shorts That Are Perfect for Summer

There are few everyday summer shorts more classic than the Levi’s 501. This high-rise option comes in all washes under the sun, with the option of distressed detail or cleaner finishes.

For everyday wear, all you need is a bright white T-shirt and you’re good to go.

Material: 70% cotton, 20% polyester, 8% viscose, 2% elastane

Sizes: 23-33

These tailored high waisted shorts feel like they’re fresh out of a 1960s playsuit from your parents’ youth.

With bold color, they pack a hard punch but feature little more than side slit pockets to keep them as a barely-there base to your every look this summer.

Material: 62% linen, 36% viscose, 2% elastane

Sizes: 00-16

You’ll love these shorts for their playful yet tailored appeal.

With a high paper bag waist, they look great with a bodysuit and button-down alike. The added scalloped hem detail makes them feel a bit more youthful.

Material: 94% cotton, 6% linen

Sizes: 0-12

If you’re a vintage lover but don’t want to go thrifting, Re/Done has done all the dirty work for you.

With a curated selection of the most perfect re-worked vintage jeans, you can practically taste the history of these denim short shorts—all from a reputable and pre-vetted source.

Material: 100% cotton

Sizes: 23-34

Whether you’re heading to the gym or simply looking for a sporty alternative to a biker short, Alo has a killer selection of spandex shorts that are ultra-short for those who aren’t looking for the knee-length variety.

Material: signature Airlift fabric

Sizes: XXS-XL

RELATED: 24 Best Biker Shorts for Women 2023

Keep it classic with a pair of khaki shorts that feel equal part utilitarian necessity for days off and a more tailored option for those summertime office days in settings that allow the wardrobe staple.

Style them with an oversized tee for casual moments and a classic button-down shirt when you need to dress them up a bit. The world is your oyster.

Material: 98% cotton, 2% spandex

Sizes: 00-14

If you love the sporty nature of a running short but want to look a bit more pulled-together and less like you’ve just finished a workout, shop these checked cotton shorts from Denimist that feature the same silhouette with a vintage pink buffalo check as its base.

Material: 100% cotton

Sizes: XXS-L

J.Crew has been designing their classic chino shorts in multiple lengths for decades but it’s the shortest of the bunch that we love most.

In a rainbow of hues (and often prints!), these everyday shorts will add just enough tailored prep to every look while also feeling like a cool-girl off-duty style, depending on how you style them.

Material: cotton/elastane

Sizes: 000-24

If you’re looking for a little bit more detailing on your denim shorts, shop these from True Religion.

While they’re totally void of distressed detail, they feature a raw hem that looks almost ombré with the light wash body for a little extra something special.

Material: 98% cotton, 2% elastane

Sizes: 23-34

For those looking for a colorful and bold short short option that’s fit for the beach and beyond, go retro with this Farm Rio colorful crochet style (fully lined!).

It needs little more than a black or white swimsuit (or tee) to still stand out in a crowd.

Material: 100% cotton; lining: 95% cotton, 5% elastane

Sizes:XS-XL

If Coco Chanel wore short shorts, it might very well be these, albeit by her design.

With a classic black-and-white textured tweed, these shorts are fit for warmer months with a tank or short-sleeve knit. They’ll also remaining in rotation straight through fall, paired with black tights and a heavier topper.

Material: 56% polyester, 39% silk, 5% polyamide

Sizes: 00-16

Few do boho quite like Isabel Marant, who has crafted a pair of embroidered short shorts that work double duty as a mini skirt, thanks to a partial overlay and wide legs.

This will allow you styling potential for more dressed-up events as well as a pop of something extra special for the casual ones too!

Material: 100% cotton

Sizes: 34-44

A pair of Dolce & Gabbana shorts will instantly transport you to the Italian coast, even with the high price tag. And, to be sure, they will last you a lifetime.

You’ll love this black-backed floral print that adds some color to your wardrobe in an ultra chic manner.

Material: 100% cotton

Sizes: 36-54

Sometimes you just want a casual moment that decidedly isn’t a pair of spandex shorts.

These ultra-short terry cloth sweat shorts from Miu Miu do just the trick, whether you’re styling them with an oversized coordinated sweatshirt or lightweight cotton tee.

Material: 100% cotton

Sizes: 36-48