I was surprised by how much I liked Frame's Rigid Re-Release Le Original Short ($215). At first glance, the wash looked a little too light for me, and I didn't expect them to have much give at all. The waistband also appeared snug . . . but then I slipped them on. I immediately realized why these shorts had the highest price tag out of the bunch: the denim is clearly good quality. It is somehow rigid and structured, but depending on the wearer's body type. Though it might not look it, these do have give and in all the right places. They feature a high waist, but the button closed at the slimmest part of my body, so I didn't feel like I couldn't move by any means. I also appreciated the little V cutout at the sides — it's a subtle detail, but one that worked to make the jeans feel more casual. And that's what jean shorts should be, in my opinion.
Overall Rating on a Scale of 1 to 10: 8
These would have been my favorite pair had they been one shade darker. Personally, I think bluer denim makes my legs appear more slim and toned, and I wasn't crazy about the patterns of bleach on this style as it got more intense right above the thigh. I did think they made my butt look pretty good though — and for a pair of shorts with so many pros, I think I'd even shell out the cash.
