Denim shorts for summer; from frayed and high-waisted to Bermuda styles
Swimwear and floaty dresses aside, denim shorts are one item we wear all summer long. Upgrade your collection with these stylish options.
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As far as summer style staples go, denim shorts are up there at the top.
The epitome of casual wear, denim shorts have become a permanent part of our summer sartorial repertoire and for good reason.
It’s all thanks to their versatility. While they’re at home worn with a swimsuit and bare feet at the beach, denim shorts can take you to the cafe and beyond.
If you need to upgrade your denim shorts, we’ve rounded up a pair to suit everyone’s tastes.
DENIM SHORTS TO BUY THIS SUMMER
Lee Regular Fit Chino Shorts in Expedition, Amazon, from $39.83
A trusty pair of denim shorts, these Lee Regular Fit Chino Shorts in Expedition are the perfect option for when you need shorts that can be dressed up or dressed down. With a mid-rise, regular fit and mid-thigh length they’re the perfect option for everyday wear. They feature a zipper with button closure and four pockets. Dress them up with a crisp, striped shirt, metallic sandals and an abundance of jewellery or pare them right back with a simple white T-shirt and casual slides for hot beach days.
Assembly Label Rowley Denim Shorts, $70
This classic pair of denim shorts are all about versatility thanks to their not-too-long, not-too-short length.
Featuring a flattering high-waist, five pockets and a colour that goes with everything, they’ll be on high rotation this summer.
Rusty Raw Boyfriend Denim Shorts, $69.99
If you prefer your denim a little more rustic, these boyfriend shorts with light abrasions and raw hems are the way to go.
They’re made from lightweight, rigid denim and feature five pockets and a zip fly.
Like short shorts? These high-waisted Calli options fit the bill perfectly.
Cut in a flattering shape and designed with 100 per cent cotton, this timeless pair will hang out in your wardrobe for years.
For those who prefer their denim shorts a little more relaxed, Lee has you covered.
These high-waisted, light denim shorts with fixed rolled-up cuffs will be your casual day saviours.
Marks & Spencer Denim Mom High Waisted Shorts, $55
If you like denim that moves with you, these high-rise stretch denim shorts are a great option.
With a flattering mid-thigh length and created from sustainably sourced cotton, you’ll be reaching for these on beach days.
Everlane Women’s Denim Short Washed Black, $81
This classic pair of relaxed fit denim shorts sits at the hip and is created from 100 per cent cotton.
Plus, this pair is created in a LEED-certified factory that uses renewable energy and air-drying so your environmental footprint is lessened.
SweatyRocks Retro High Waisted Rolled Denim Jean Shorts, Amazon, from $31.52
If there’s one denim shorts trend that has emerged as a winner this warm season, it is the retro, vintage look. These SweatyRocks Retro High Waisted Rolled Denim Jean Shorts play into the trend perfectly, with the sort of flattering high waist, loose fit and rolled cuffs that wouldn’t have been out of place by the beach in 1985. Featuring a casual shade of blue denim, five handy pockets and a zip up fly with button closure, these trusty denim shorts will remain a staple in your drawer season after season.
Cotton On High Ripped Denim Shorts, $39.99
If you’re set for blue denim shorts, a pair of black denim shorts is a versatile addition to your collection.
This high-rise, stretchy denim pair with a raw hem is a stylish place to start.
Outland Denim Annie Shorts, $159.90
A brilliant pair for anyone who prefers their denim shorts roomy, this high-waisted, relaxed fit pair will keep you comfy all summer long.
Plus, it’s an ethical buy – all Outland Denim products are crafted by at-risk women in Cambodia.
OneTeaspoon Streetwalker High Waist 80s Shorts, $120
Take a return to eighties fashion (the good parts – forget about those shoulder pads) with these high-waisted shorts.
With a relaxed fit, front slant pockets and tuck pleats along front seams, they’re a retro take on classic denim shorts.
Nobody Denim Frankie Bermuda Shorts, $189
Yes, Bermuda shorts are back and we’re thrilled. Sitting somewhere between casual and a touch more dressy, these shorts are a versatile summer buy.
These boast a slim-fit design with cotton-rich denim that has a slight stretch to it.
Cotton On Stretch Slim Denim Bermuda Shorts, $39.99
If you prefer your denim shorts super stretchy, these affordable Cotton On Bermuda shorts are a great choice.
Featuring a flattering mid-thigh length and a raw hem, these are destined to become a warm weather staple.
Seed Heritage Core Denim Shorts, $44.95
A classic pair, these Seed Heritage denim shorts come in a semi-distressed vintage wash.
With a structured silhouette, five pockets and zip closure, this pair will quickly become your go-to for hot days.
Is there anything more delightfully comfortable than a pair of elasticised pants? (That’s a rhetorical question – of course there isn’t.)
These Bonds denim shorts unshackle elasticised pants from their daggy connotations with a flattering drawcord waist and frayed hem detailing.
How can I style denim shorts?
The beauty of denim shorts is that they can adapt seamlessly to almost any casual occasion. Dress them up with sandals or low-heeled mules and a chic top for afternoon drinks with friends or wear them to the beach with a crisp, oversized linen shirt, a wide-brimmed hat and comfy slides. In those not-too-cold-not-too-hot months, team your denim shorts with a colourful, fluffy knit and flat ankle boots.
How can I pick the best denim shorts for me?
Unsure of what denim shorts will work seamlessly into your wardrobe? To help you figure out this fashion conundrum, it’s time to ask yourself a few questions. Do you prefer high-waisted shorts or low-slung options? Is the shorter the better or do you prefer a little length to your denim shorts? Do you prefer frayed, distressed denim, or are you more at home in tailored denim? Answering these questions will help to point you in the direction of denim shorts you’ll feel most comfortable and stylish in.
How can I care for my denim shorts?
There are some simple things you can do to ensure the longevity of your denim shorts. Wash your shorts on a cold setting as this will help to prevent them from fading and avoid putting them in the dryer where they could shrink. If you can avoid washing them after every wear, this will also help to prevent further wear and tear.
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