The 18 Best Denim Shorts on the Market, Straight From a Shopping Editor

Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

As any fashion lover will confirm, shopping for high-quality denim shorts takes time — but once you hit the jackpot, you'll find yourself wearing them on repeat. Few things feel as good as slipping into a comfortable pair of jean shorts on a warm day, and the right style will be one that's versatile enough to take you from a morning coffee date to a beach picnic and beyond. To help you get a head start on updating your summer wardrobe, we shopped out 18 jean styles that are available in a variety of cuts and washes. You'll find it easy to mix and match these pieces with everything you already own — whether that's styling them with elevated sandals and a fitted top, keeping them casual with everyday sneakers and a tee, or working them over a bathing suit for a day trip to the beach. Yes, these options are all extremely versatile.

Our favorite selections come from coveted denim brands like Agolde, Frame, Abercrombie, BlankNYC, Mother, Zara, and more. From distressed denim shorts with rips that offering an asymmetrical, eye-catching touch to black, white, and printed options that keep things busy in the colorway department, keep reading to shop our picks for the best jean shorts to work into your wardrobe this season. And, seeing as that some of these jean shorts are affordable or marked down, you might even consider scooping up multiple pairs in different washes, bringing your closet even more variety once you've landed on a silhouette you really love.

Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak

Best Amazon Jean Shorts
amazon.com

Best Amazon Jean Shorts

Amazon Essentials 4" Denim Short ($36)

In the market for a bestselling pair of jean shorts? You really can't go wrong with this pair from Amazon, which has more than 5,000 near-perfect ratings. Shoppers love the bottom for its relaxed fit and length that's "not too short, not too long."

Best Rolled-Hem Jean Shorts
nordstrom.com

Best Rolled-Hem Jean Shorts

Topshop Roll Hem Mom Denim Shorts ($41-$46, originally $58)

These baggy denim shorts with a rolled cuff encompass every '90s trend we're still interested in pulling off. With a loose-fitting leg and retro-inspired silhouette that feels nostalgic yet fresh, what's not to love?

Best White Jean Shorts
amazon.com

Best White Jean Shorts

Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda Basic Jean Short ($17-$55)

White denim shorts are such a staple style for spring and summer, and we currently have our eyes on these Bermuda-like shorts. They stand out with their lengthy design, and we'd pair them with a floral blouse, nude wedges, and a statement phone crossbody bag for the most summer-ready ensemble.

Best Black Jean Shorts
levi.com

Best Black Jean Shorts

Levi's Ribcage Shorts ($70)

You really can't go wrong with this timeless Levi's style. The distressed bottoms are so flattering, comfortable, and have a super-high-rise fit that'll cover your tummy and hug your waist in all the right ways. Dress them up with a puff-sleeved top or dress them down with a pair of comfortable shoes and a breathable sweatshirt.

Best Cutoff Jean Shorts
nordstrom.com

Best Cutoff Jean Shorts

BlankNYC Sunflower Crochet Embroidered Denim Shorts ($98)

Florals might not be the most groundbreaking concept for spring and summer, but the sunflower pattern is definitely given new life with these unique cutoffs. From the intricate crochet design to the raw hem, these are truly the cutest denim shorts for the season.

Best High-Waisted Jean Shorts
nordstrom.com

Best High-Waisted Jean Shorts

Frame Le Super High Waist Denim Shorts ($198)

When you want to play around with more color but don't necessarily want to invest in something too eye-catching, we recommend shopping out a pair of jean shorts like these. The khaki-colored style will definitely add a playful splash of color to your denim stock, but will still be versatile enough to team with other neutral shades like beige, brown, and black.

Best Long Jean Shorts
saksfifthavenue.com

Best Long Jean Shorts

Mother The Trickster Fray Hem Denim Shorts ($83, originally $248)

If cropped shorts aren't your style preference, we recommend opting for a longer pant, like these Mother denim shorts. The jean shorts ooze a sportier, Bermuda short-like silhouette that provides ample coverage, but is still breathable enough to wear through the spring and summer months.

Best Curve Jean Shorts
goodamerican.com

Best Curve Jean Shorts

Good American Curve Shorts ($99)

Good American took one of the bestselling jean silhouettes and turned it into shorts; we're obsessed, to say the least. These were designed with your curves in mind and are crafted from a snug, figure-molding material that feels as good as it looks.

Best American Eagle Jean Shorts
ae.com

Best American Eagle Jean Shorts

AE Ne(x)t Level High-Waisted Denim Short Short ($45, originally $60)

These high-waisted denim shorts with visible pockets have 103 reviews and five stars on the AE website. If that's not saying enough to convince you of their fit, you can see them on a handful of customers when you scroll to the bottom of the product page. The shorts are also available in seven unique colorways, so you can purchase more than one pair if these become your go-to.

Best Colorful Jean Shorts
luckybrand.com

Best Colorful Jean Shorts

Lucky Brand Mid Rise Boy Short ($35, originally $70)

Few styles feel more timeless than a classic pair of blue jean shorts. But if you're hoping to infuse a little more color into your wardrobe, you can't go wrong with this chartreuse pair. The lime-colored bottom will team beautifully with a crisp white blouse and comfy statement sandals.

Best Mom Jean Shorts
abercrombie.com

Best Mom Jean Shorts

Abercrombie High Rise Mom Short ($60)

Every fashion-lover knows the best jean shorts come from Abercrombie, and this pair is full proof of it. The dark-wash denim seamlessly blends the classic mom short with an edgy, updated flair, courtesy of the pant's frayed hemline.

Best Distressed Jean Shorts
revolve.com

Best Distressed Jean Shorts

Agolde Parker Vintage Cut Off Shorts ($138)

You'll fall in love with these flattering shorts the second you slip them on. These denim shorts are the ideal length — not too long, not too short — and they're also perfectly distressed with a raw hemline that stretches along the bottom of the pant.

Best Low-Rise Jean Shorts
urbanoutfitters.com

Best Low-Rise Jean Shorts

BDG Asymmetrical A-Line Cutoff Denim Short ($20, originally $59)

Feel like trying the low-rise trend? You're definitely not alone (at least according to TikTok), and this style doubles as a great option. The low-rise jean shorts are long enough to balance out the proportions, and they also feature practical, deep pockets throughout.

Most Unique Jean Shorts
matchesfashion.com

Most Unique Jean Shorts

Raey Black Fold Raw-hem Denim Shorts ($195)

These shorts offer a fresh departure from the classic jean-shorts silhouette — and we're totally into it. With two unique folds on the front, the denim boasts a wide-leg design that's sure to elevate even the simplest outfit with cool, eye-catching structure.

Best Levi's Jean Shorts
levi.com

Best Levi's Jean Shorts

Levi's 501 Original High Rise Shorts ($80)

Summer and white denim feel practically synonymous with one another; they're the perfect style pairing. And if you're in the market for a fresh pair to work into your wardrobe, you can't go wrong with these Levi's.

Best Zara Jean Shorts
zara.com

Best Zara Jean Shorts

Zara TRF High Rise Denim Shorts ($40)

Jean shorts are the most effortless fashion essential, and these are the perfect day-to-night style. They're casual and great for wear throughout the day, but they can also just as easily be dressed up come nighttime.

Best Blue Jean Shorts
garageclothing.com

Best Blue Jean Shorts

Garage Denim Festival Short ($45)

Looking for a pair of true blue denim shorts? The ultra-saturated dye-effect on this affordable pair will provide a nice contrast to your lighter tops this summer. The slight fade and distressed, raw hem keeps them casual.

Best Ripped Jean Shorts
dynamiteclothing.com

Best Ripped Jean Shorts

Dynamite Claudia Distressed Jean Mom Shorts ($45)

Positive reviews describe these shorts as ultra-comfortable, with a slightly wider leg if you prefer a little more room. Seeing as that you were looking for rips, you'll love the asymmetrical hemline and shreds that will lend your outfit a rugged touch.