How to Find the Perfect Pair of Denim Shorts

Summer is here, and it’s time to trade in your jeans for something cooler: denim shorts. But finding that just-right pair isn’t always easy. That’s where this guide comes in—consider it your shortcut to discovering the perfect denim shorts for your body type, style, comfort level, and warm-weather plans.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT RISE

The “rise” of a pair of denim shorts refers to where on your waist the shorts rest. The rise you choose significantly affects how your shorts flatter your figure. With the most suitable rise, you can feel comfortable and confident, whether you’re hitting the boardwalk or going out to town with friends.

HIGH-RISE

These shorts come with a touch of retro; high-rise shorts sit above the belly button. Compared to other rises, high-rise shorts elongate the legs by driving visual interest upwards. They also define the waist, giving the illusion of a snatched midsection. If you have a shorter torso and longer legs, high-rise shorts may disrupt the balance of your bodily proportions.

A longer torso and shorter legs, on the other hand, can significantly benefit from the elongating effects by creating a more proportionate and balanced silhouette. High-rise shorts also flatter curvy and pear-shaped body types.

Out of all the rises, high-rise shorts offer the most coverage. Style your high-rise shorts with baby tees, blouses, and structured tops.

MID-RISE

The standard rise: mid-rise shorts sit between the belly button and your hips. Whether you’re curvier or slimmer, mid-rise shorts work well for most body types and are perfect for everyday wear. They’re comfortable and versatile and go well with most tops; pair your mid-rise shorts with tees, tanks, and casual blouses.

LOW-RISE

With their roots in the 90s and early 2000s, many people are intimidated to pull off low-waist denim shorts given their risqué nature and the fact that they sit directly on the hips. If you have a shorter torso and longer legs, low-rise shorts can give you the appearance of an elongated torso and balanced proportions. If you’re looking to show off your abs, low-rise shorts work well for petite or slim figures. Channel the Y2K vibes even further with a cropped top, loose tees, or a bandeau top.

THE RISES, AT A GLANCE

Take a look at the chart below to gain a bird's-eye view of the different rises:

Feature	High-Rise Shorts	Mid-Rise Shorts	Low-Rise Shorts
Waist Position	Above the natural waist (usually near the navel)	At or just below the natural waist	Well below the natural waist (hip level)
Coverage	Offers more tummy and back coverage	Moderate coverage for most body types	Minimal waist coverage
Styling Look	Vintage, elegant, elongates legs	Balanced, versatile, and classic	Casual, relaxed, early 2000s aesthetic
Body Type Fit	Flattering for hourglass, pear, and curvy figures	Suits most body types, especially rectangular shapes	Better for petite or slim figures
Comfort Level	Snug fit, can be restrictive when sitting	Comfortable and secure without pinching	May slip or ride down, less secure for movement
Occasions	Fashion-forward, dressy, retro outfits	Everyday wear, work-casual, smart casual	Beachwear, festival fashion, casual outings
Common Pairings	Crop tops, tucked blouses, structured tops	T-shirts, tanks, casual blouses	Loose tees, crop tops, bandeaus

TAKING YOUR INSEAM

Depending on the look you’re going for, it’s essential to have your inseam measurements taken. The inseam is how far down your thighs your shorts hit. If you’re looking to show off the booty (like these little, short shorts), you’ll want to go for a shorter inseam. Oppositely, a longer inseam, like these Bermuda shorts, is the way to go for more coverage.

To take your inseam:

• • Get a measuring tape.
• • Measure from the inside of your crotch down to your desired length (in inches).
• • Write down the number.

If you have longer legs, you may want to opt for shorts with a longer inseam. The same inseam will look longer on short legs. Again, the best inseam for you ultimately depends on the look you’re going for and your desired comfort level.

These are the typical inseam measurements:

• • Short shorts: Your typical booty short. Ranges from 1 to 2.5 inches. Very short, high up on the thigh—perfect for casual or beach wear.
• • Mid-length shorts: Ranges between 3 to 5 inches They give you more thigh coverage without sacrificing style or everyday versatility
• • Bermuda shorts: The length ranges from 7 to 9 inches. Bermuda shorts have a longer length that hits above the knee and are more modest and structured. Perfect for those opting for the most coverage.

CONSIDER THE FIT

Different shorts have different fits through the leg, and this plays a huge role in your comfort level:

• • Wide leg denim shorts: These jorts have a fit that’s wider, looser, baggier, and often flared. They tend to feel breezy and light, making them perfect for hot days when you need a little room and want to add a retro edge to your look.
• • Classic fit: The Goldie Locks of fits: not too slim, not too wide—great for those looking for comfort. They offer a straight cut through the hips and thighs.
• • Skinny/curvy fit: Give your figure the spotlight with curvy and skinny jean shorts. These are tight through the opening, cut with more room in the hips and thighs, and cinched at the waist to prevent gapping.
• • Relaxed fit: Think boyfriend's or mom's shorts. Relaxed fits are looser in the hips and thighs for a laid-back, non-restrictive feel; ideal for casual days when you want comfort without sacrificing style.

Now you know what to look for in the best pair of denim shorts. Shop all women’s shorts at True Religion today to find your perfect fit.