13 Must-Have Denim Short Styles for the Ultimate ‘It’ Girl This Summer 2026
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Denim shorts have evolved significantly since the 1960s, when individuals literally cut their jeans to embrace a counterculture movement. Denim played a crucial role in promoting that ‘unconventional’ mindset, supporting peace, love, anti-authoritarianism, artistic expression, free-spirited lifestyles, and of course, a carefree, laid-back style.
While 2026 is a far cry from the Woodstock era, denim shorts remain a staple in our daily wardrobe, continually evolving. The short shorts of the past are truly outdated, making way for a fresh update (and greater comfort). Though Daisy Dukes once ruled, this summer we’re revitalizing ’60s style with a contemporary twist focused on comfort. Expect denim shorts with elastic waists, relaxed fits, and longer inseams, while still including some classic cut-offs. It’s only fair!
13 Denim Shorts to Refresh Your Summer Wardrobe
1. Our Top Pick: Drawstring denim is trending, and this stylish option showcases that design in shorts form. The adjustable tie combined with the elastic waist ensures maximum comfort, whether you’re beach lounging or running errands.
2. Runner-Up: Levi’s shorts offer timeless style and are a summer essential, particularly with a longer inseam as seen in the 501 Mid-Thigh Shorts. With a stretchy composition, 6-inch inseam, and high-rise design, they’re both relaxed and flattering.
3. Beach Ready: While we adore classic blue cut-offs, there’s something refreshing about wearing white shorts at a summer getaway. These mid-rise options from Amazon feature a chic mom style with just the right amount of distressing at the hem.
4. Best Seller: These Bermuda shorts by Lee are a favorite among countless shoppers, praised for their extra coverage, slimming fit, and semi-stretchy fabric.
5. Everyday Comfort: From farmer’s markets to grocery runs and vacations, comfortable shorts are essential, like these baggy wide-leg shorts. Although on the shorter side with a 4-inch inseam, they provide decent coverage and feature an elastic waistband that moves with you.
6. Country Vibes: Grab your cowboy hat and boots because country style is back this summer! We adore these cut-off shorts from Wrangler that stretch and showcase just the right amount of leg with a 3.5-inch inseam, perfect for dancing the night away.
7. Easy Choice: Notice the trend? Relaxed styles are all the rage, and Levi’s baggy shorts embody this relaxed aesthetic. We recommend the dark-wash style, that pairs well with both dressy tops and casual tees.
8. Eye-Catching: Leave it to Free People to elevate a simple pair of shorts into bohemian and feminine wear, thanks to their charming lace hem design.
9. Trending Fast: Brown denim shorts are currently gaining traction, and this chocolate-hued longline style is eye-catching. They add a warm touch to classic denim, offering a fresh alternative to blue.
10. Statement Piece: You’ll turn heads in these rhinestone-adorned denim shorts at events or night outs. The crystal details create a playful vibe that’s perfect for summer outings.
11. Editor’s Choice: Our Us Weekly editors have taken a liking to these Abercrombie & Fitch shorts. With a chafe-resistant 6-inch inseam and the innovative Curve Love design that prevents waist gaps, they deliver a perfect fit. Need proof? We wore them for the Fourth of July and received tons of compliments.
12. Laid-Back Style: Another fav? These high-rise Dad shorts, just one inch shorter than the above pair, still provide that easy-going vibe that makes them iconic.
13. A Must-Have: While ‘jorts’ is a blend of ‘jeans’ and ‘shorts,’ in fashion, they specifically refer to longer styles. These mid-rise Gap jorts, with an 11-inch inseam, hit near the knee and are incredibly versatile, pairing well with dressy tops, button-downs, and even blazers.
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