The 20 Best Denim Shorts for Grown-Ups

These aren't your booty-skimming jean shorts of yesteryear.

Best Denim Shorts
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

Like a breezy dress or comfortable sandals, denim shorts are a summer essential. We're not talking about Daisy Dukes, also known as the booty-skimming jean shorts you wore for every summer activity in the mid-'00s. Today's jean shorts are all grown up, and—yes—can even be worn to work, if you know how to style a high-waisted pair. (Though if you're looking for itty-bitty options to throw into your carry-on for a day at the beach, those styles have only got better with time, too.) In short (get it?), there are no downsides to them: You can denim shorts dress up or down, and they seem to get comfier with each and every wear.

Still, as with jeans, there are a lot of options available. Some denim shorts are super-short and flirty, some hit mid-thigh for a work-appropriate look, and others range from mom jeans-esque to distressed black denim. You can pick from low-rise or high-waisted styles, and there are endless washes, styles, and lengths to peruse. We know finding the perfect denim shorts that look good and feel good can be a pain, and that's why we've done the hard work for you.

Taylor Ayers

Taylor Ayers is a fashion editor at Marie Claire, covering the new editorial fashion trends, looks, and contemporary styles.