A Guide To Denim Shorts

I’m not sure about where you live (the weather in Madison is still freezing), but in some places, the season of denim shorts is coming up fast!

Today I wanted to create a little denim shorts shopping guide for you guys! Finding the right denim shorts for you can be tough – cut-offs aren’t for everyone, maybe you’re not ready for the mom short yet haha, how do they run, etc. SO, below I’ve rounded up my favorite denim shorts for several different categories: a little more length, midrise, budget-friendly options, and more!

Size reference: I’m (almost) 5’4, 130 pounds, and typically wear a size 25 in most denim.

1 // High-Waisted

Like high rise jeans, the high-waisted silhouette keeps everything looking and feeling more polished. They fit snug and hug your figure. In my option.

The Dee style by AGOLDE have been my absolute favorite high-waisted denim shorts. Trust me when I say you will love them! If you are looking for a more ‘full coverage’ cut off short option, but not wanting to sacrifice on the ‘cool’ factor, these are a must have! (Also sold: here)

Price: $128
Rise: 12.25” rise
Length: 4” Inseam
Sizing: Run true to size with a snug fit right at your natural waist

2 // Mid Rise

A midrise silhouette is easy to style and looks good on almost every body type.

The Parker Cut Off by AGOLDE are my #1 worn denim shorts. They definitely fit more boyfriend style but are the best of ALL worlds. They are a medium rise, not too short, not too long…and they are cut-offs, without being totally destroyed. They are so comfortable and so flattering. (Also sold: here)

Price: $128
Rise: 11.5” rise
Length: 2.75” Inseam
Sizing: Sizing-wise, the reviews were mixed, but I just went with my usual denim size and they fit great! If anything, the Dee style fits a bit snugger than the Parker, but since it’s a high rise fit, I like that. They’re 100% cotton, but magically very comfortable.

I’ll go ahead and address the elephant in the room right now— AGOLDE denim shorts are expensive. I get it. They aren’t going to be for everyone, and if they aren’t in your budget don’t feel like you MUST have them or anything. But as someone who genuinely shares about the products I find, and also as someone who likes to invest in pieces that are going to last, I wanted to make sure you all knew that if it works in your budget, these are WORTH EVERY PENNY.

If you are interested in a more in-depth review on the Agolde shorts, I have a full blog post here on them.

3 // Under $60

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on shorts to get a good fitting and comfortable short.

These High Rise Mom Shorts from Abercrombie are a GREAT option if you are looking for something that is on trend and won’t break the bank. This style comes in five washes and size ranges from 24 -34.

Price: $59
Rise: 11.75” rise
Sizing: I don’t own this exact pair, but reviews say they run true to size and say they wash well.

4 // Cuffed Hem

If cut-off is not your thing, the cuffed hem style will give you a slightly more sophisticated look than cut-offs.

When I was hunting for shorts last spring, I tried these High-Raised Denim Shorts from Madewell on and loved them. If you are a fan of their jeans, you will love these. They are structured but have some ‘give’ to them making them super comfy and flattering on the leg.

Price: $70
Rise: 10.5”
Inseam: 4” Inseam
Sizing: I find myself always having to size down 1 size in Madewell denim, and these shorts were no different!

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What is your favorite style of denim shorts?

Xo,