Best denim shorts for curvy women: high-waisted, frayed, super-stretch
One of the best things about summer is wearing denim shorts. Here are 14 styles to get into this season.
These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more
As we enter summer, one versatile basic that should sit in all of our wardrobes is the humble denim short.
Nowadays, jean cut-offs are no longer relegated to beach only attire but instead, when styled right, they’re an outfit mainstay you can sport almost anywhere. And, like most good essentials, denim shorts tend to evolve every year to keep up with the latest trends; right now, the style seems to be a slightly longer Bermuda cut accessorised with a linen blazer. But, like any practical piece, it’s just about finding the right denim short you’ll enjoy wearing all summer long.
Here, I’ve specifically combed the internet to find you those larger fits — in this case, we’re talking a size 16 and beyond — that I know will become your favourite wardrobe workhorse.
Allegrace High Waist Denim Shorts, $46.42+
These high-waisted shorts with folded hems are constructed from soft, high-stretch denim, making them supportive and comfortable on curves. One five-star review from Amazon stated, “I have thicker thighs and they’re perfect. I definitely recommend these...I’ve washed them twice now and they didn’t shrink at all and no loose strings or anything.”
Once you discover how comfortable and flattering these shorts are, you might wish for them in another colour - fortunately, they also come in black, which you can buy here.
Levi’s Classic Bermuda Shorts, $55.96 (RRP$79.95)
When you’re thinking denim, Levis are arguably the best in the business, so these denim Bermuda shorts are an excellent investment for lasting comfort.
I chose these shorts because not only are they crafted in a trendy Bermuda cut but they’re super-stretch cotton, so they’re an excellent gateway out of those comfy #iso outfits. I know you’ve been living in.
Levi’s Shaping Bermuda Shorts, $55.96 (RRP$79.95)
Again, these Levi’s Shaping Bermuda Shorts are soft stretch denim, and these have those classic peddle pusher fixed folded cuffs.
I think for the amount of wears you get out of denim shorts in summer, any pair for less than $100 is a super reasonable price to pay for the versatility you’ll enjoy.
Lasula Plus Knee-Length Ripped Denim Shorts in Blue, $50.40 (RRP$72)
The three-quarter length short is well and truly here to stay. Originally considered the less fashionable sister of its itty-bitty counterpart, this newly-invigorated silhouette has stylised rips to its legs and frayed hems. Best of all? It’s now 30 per cent off.
Piper Chambray Pull On Shorts, $41.96 (RRP$59.95)
These Piper Chambray Pull-On Shorts are an ultra-lightweight and comfortable option.
I would say they’re the perfect summer travel short to stuff in your suitcase but, I don’t know when we’ll all be allowed to take an actual vacay, do you?
Indigo Tonic Riley Boyfriend Shorts, $79.99
Become the CEO of casual weekend dressing with the Riley Boyfriend Shorts from Indigo Tonic teamed with a well-fitted blazer and cat-eye glasses.
I think that black denim shorts are an underrated wardrobe essential and I especially love the relaxed boyfriend fit.
Indigo Tonic Victoria Knee Shorts, $79.99
Able to be dressed up or down as needed, the cut of these Victoria Knee Shorts for Indigo Tonic is an undeniably ultra-flattering one.
When I think of jean shorts for curves, my mind mentally pictures something precisely like these because they are a great staple for warmer weather. They are also available in a dark wash.
Atmos&Here Curvy Alessia Chambray Shorts, $29.99 (RRP$59.99)
Is there anything more comfortable than a paperbag-style short? Short answer: there is not. Wear this pure cotton, chambray short with each and every one of your favourite cotton tees and singlets this summer, for a look that will last you from the first heat of summer until the onset of autumn.
Good American Cut Off Shorts, Shopbop, $60.12 (RRP$200.41)
Too many people are wrongly afraid to wear white denim when it’s all about finding the right white, like these optic-white denim Cut Off Shorts from Good American.
Just a hot tip, Good American stretch denim tends to run approximately one size large so keep that in mind when shopping online.
Boohoo Mid Wash Blue Plus Ripped High Waist Denim Shorts, $22.50 (RRP$45)
Less than $50, these Boohoo Mid Wash Blue Plus Ripped High Waist Denim Shorts are the perfect call for a curvier customer on a budget.
I love the high waisted mum-style short and, summer after summer, it’s proving it’s a style that’s here to stay.
Boohoo Mid Wash Blue Plus High Rise Fray Hem Denim Shorts, $7.50 (RRP$15)
Ultra-affordable and ultra-stylish these Boohoo Mid wash blue Plus High Rise Fray Hem Denim Shorts are the cheapest of the bunch.
These are a classic pair of shorts that’ll have you sorted for all those summery occasions that call for ‘jeans and a cute top’.
These Bonds Denim Shorts are the perfect beach cover-up as the super lightweight fabric dries so fast you won’t have a wet bum by the time you walk from the sand to the shops.
These are the kind of shorts I live in on those sweltering summer days because lounge-y fit makes me feel free, no buttons or zips to deal with.
Missguided Plus Long Line Denim Shorts In Blue, $28 (RRP$40)
A fashion-forward style, these Missguided Plus Long Line Denim Shorts come in that much lusted after classic denim blue.
I chose these cut-offs because they offer a fair amount of leg room and yet still look slim-fit enough to be a dressy short.
Urban Bliss Plus High-Waisted Denim Shorts in Black, $44
If you eyed the black shorts earlier in this list - but prefer a slight fade to your denim - these are the shorts for you. Featuring folded, stylised hems and a high waist, its perfect for your cotton tees during the day, and silk camis in the evening.
Urban Bliss Plus Boyfriend Short In Blue, $31.50 (RRP$45)
Want shorts with perfect leg room, are mid-rise and boast a slouchy cut? Enter the Urban Bliss Plus Boyfriend Short in blue.
Looking through these selects, it’s no secret that I love some distressed detailing, but I prefer only a hint so they can look more “fashion” as opposed to hipster trying too hard.
HOW TO WEAR YOUR DENIM SHORTS THREE WAYS
1. Your fave cut-offs with a nice oversized cotton tee and sandals is the most straightforward look for an effortless daytime vibe.
2. Team your denim with a blazer and some strappy heels for a silhouette guaranteed to suit any long lunch invitation.
3. Inject some spice and let the shorts be the base of your denim on denim — go on, have some fun!
Jessica Vander Leahy is a model, writer and the founder of Project WomanKind. Follow her on Instagram.
‘No-brainer’: Dapper men’s fashion essentials
Building a wardrobe can be stressful, but we’re saving your oodles of time and money with this excellent range of essentials.
I’m a curvy girl and I found the dress of my dreams
Something that will make getting ready in the morning a whole lot easier? Sign us up.
If you don’t know this word, you’re old
In years gone by, the word had serious negative connotations but thanks to one pop star, it’s well and truly on the way up.
‘Obsessed’: Shoppers flock to Cotton On jeans
Cotton On jeans have sparked a frenzy online but do they really live up to the hype?