21 Best Summer Shorts For Women To Buy In 2023
From casual and tailored to denim and cargo, summer calls for a variety of shorts that’ll see you through any occasion – including these popular boxer-style shorts.
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Summer shorts are a must as the weather warms up.
While you might be in the market for a pair of faithful denim cut offs, it’s worth opening your mind to the other options out there. A pair of comfy casual shorts, tailored shorts, linen shorts and cargo shorts all have their respective places, too.
But to everyone’s surprise, boxer-style shorts have become THE new fashion trend to come out of 2023. No longer saved for the bedroom or at home, the cotton boxer has earned its place in many summer outfits – shoving denim cut offs out of the way.
Although, it does make sense – given that they’re generally made from cotton so they’re insanely comfortable, lightweight, easy and breathable.
If you’re not quite ready to relinquish the humble denim short, give them a 2023 upgrade because you’ll be seeing jorts everywhere this summer. Yes, you read that right. Jorts. Jean shorts. Sheans. Whatever you want to call them, they’re back in town.
Brought back in style by fashion it-girls Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber, the controversial product has become a must-have product for many and a “hell no” for others. But it’s all in the styling, seriously. And that’s where we’re here to help.
Our favourite boxer shorts at the moment are the Seersucker Easy Shorts from Uniqlo which shoppers say are “comfortable” and “versatile”, and our favourite jorts are the Wide Leg Longline Jort from Glassons that are great for those “conscious of showing too much skin”.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the perfect pair of shorts to add to your collection this summer, our team of experienced writers spent hours researching products to include in articles. We investigated what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
OUR TOP PICKS
In this article
EDITOR’S PICK: BEST SUMMER SHORT
Seersucker Easy Shorts, $19.90 at Uniqlo
What You Need To Know
Working boxer-style shorts into your everyday wardrobe has become the norm in fashion, and we’re loving this pair from Uniqlo. Crafted from 100 per cent cotton seersucker fabric, they’re not only lightweight and breathable but super soft. They feature a pinstriped pattern, elasticated waistband, side slip pockets and a relaxed fit.
Five-star reviewers say they’re “comfortable” and “versatile”.
“Comfortable enough to wear at home, but classy enough for going out. The pockets are useful to have,” one wrote.
“Light weight and nice feel to the touch, I need more,” another wrote.
BEST DENIM SHORTS
Wide Leg Longline Jort, $31.99 (down from $39.99) at Glassons
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, Shopping Writer
Jorts. Love it or hate it, they’re back and better than ever.
Arguably the most controversial fashion trend of the year, I’m personally a huge fan of ‘em as are Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and (surprisingly) many others.
I picked up this pair from Glassons and I can happily say that these jean shorts will be on high rotation all summer long.
Made from a soft cotton, they feature a mid-rise waist, longline length, baggy fit and a gorgeous vintage blue wash.
Some might say they’re “too ugly or hard to style” however, they’re actually quite easy to style. Since they’re big and baggy, I personally pair mine with cropped baby tees or singlets to balance out the proportions and then finish it off with sneakers.
A baggy tee works just as well for a comfy and effortless take – ultimately, you can style it with anything. They’re incredibly versatile, comfortable and great for those that are conscious of showing too much skin.
So if you’ve been wanting to try the trend out without breaking the bank, this $40 pair is perfection!
Riders By Lee Women’s Girlfriend Shorts, $45 (down from $99.95) at OZSALE
What You Need To Know
Looking for the perfect pair of everyday denim shorts? Well, here they are.Made from 100 per cent cotton, these girlfriend shorts from Riders By Lee feature a high-rise waist with a zip and button fastening, and relaxed legs that have a frayed raw hem. Finished in a mid-blue wash, these shorts are easy to throw on and a must-have warm weather staple. Easily dress it up with heeled sandals and a bodysuit or down with a graphic tee and sneakers.
It’s available in sizes 7 AU to 16 AU and is currently 54 per cent off – talk about a steal!
Five-star reviewers have praised the style as the fit is “very good” and “flattering”.
“Goes with a lot of things. Perfect for the summer,” one wrote.
“These are a cute fit, relaxed but still flattering,” another wrote.
AERE Denim Shorts, $70 (down from $100) at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Crafted from 100 per cent cotton, this chic pair of denim shorts from AERE are bound to be your favourite this summer. It features a longer leg length, high rise waist, straight legs and a beautiful vintage light-blue wash.
High Rise Classic Stretch Denim Short, $27.99 (down from $39.99) at Cotton On
What You Need To Know
If you’re not a fan of shorts with raw hems, you’ll love this one with a rolled hem. It offers a snug fit, flattering high-rise waist and a an incredible blue wash. Made from a cotton-elastane blend, they have a little extra give and will become more comfortable as you wear them.
Levi’s Curve Bermuda Jean Shorts, $67.49 (down from $89.95) at Myer
What You Need To Know
For those that prefer a longer leg length, these bermuda shorts are perfect. Crafted from a cotton blend, this pair will hold-you-in and offers a good amount of stretch for comfort. Featuring a bermuda short design, it has a mid to high-rise waist, rolled hem, signature Levi’s back patch and a dark blue wash.
Holding a 4.9-star rating, shoppers say they’re “comfortable and stretchy” and “don’t stretch out of shape”.
Atmos&Here Mila Denim Shorts, $59.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
White denim shorts are an absolute must-have for your summer wardrobe. Made from cotton, this pair features a raw hem, high-rise waist and relaxed straight legs. They’re easy to wear and can be paired with almost anything you can think of.
Levi’s High-Waisted Mom Shorts, $74.96 (down from $99.95)
What You Need To Know
We love the flattering A-line silhouette of these denim shorts. Designed with a high-rise waist, wide legs and relaxed fit, they’re an easy piece to wear and style for any occasion. The slightly faded black wash gives it that worn-in vintage feel that we all know and like.
BEST LINEN SHORTS
Linen Blend Shorts, $49.99 at H&M
What You Need To Know
No summer wardrobe is complete without a pair of linen shorts and we love this one from H&M. Crafted from a viscose-linen blend, this lightweight and breathable pair offer a high, elasticated waist, wide legs with pleat details, two side slip pockets and a flattering longer leg length – making them great for work and casual wear.
Forever New Lottie Linen Shorts, $79.99 at Myer
What You Need To Know
These black linen shorts are the pair you’ll ever need, seriously. Designed with an elasticated back waistband, mid to high-rise waist and side slip pockets, they’re made from 100 per cent linen so they’re comfortable, breathable and airy – perfect for summer!
Core Linen Waisted Short, $119.95 at Seed Heritage
What You Need To Know
It doesn’t get any chicer than these white linen shorts from Seed Heritage. Crafted from 100 per cent linen, they have a flattering A-line silhouette, high-rise waist with fitted panels, side slip pockets and and a slight wide leg.
BEST CASUAL SHORTS
Country Road Organically Grown Linen Relaxed Short, $119 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
If you’re looking for shorts that are a little more relaxed and easy to slip on, this pair from Country Road has an easy elasticated waistband with a drawcord. It’s made from 100 per cent linen and has side seam pockets.
Linen Blend Tie Waist Shorts, $23.99 (down from $29.99) at Glassons
What You Need To Know
Everyone needs a great pair of linen shorts in their wardrobe, and these tie-waist ones can be worn dressier with some leather sandals and a shirt, or casual with a tee and sandals. Made from a linen-viscose blend, they’re as easy and breezy as it gets.
BEST TAILORED SHORTS
Forcast Annie Linen Blended Shorts, $79.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Who said shorts couldn’t be workwear? These tailored linen-blend shorts feature a high-rise waist with pleat detail, side slip pockets and a matching belt. Team it with a linen blazer and you’ve got a fantastic summer work outfit sorted.
Pleated Linen-Blend Utility Shorts, $135 at COS
What You Need To Know
Crafted from a breezy-blend of linen and TENCEL Lyocell, these smart shorts take elevated workwear to a whole new level. Featuring adjustable tabs at the waist, box-pleated flap pockets at the back, high-rise waist and a longline length, these shorts are a chic take on the classic wardrobe staple.
Chino Shorts, $49.90 at Uniqlo
What You Need To Know
Like shorts with a little more structure? These chino shorts from Uniqlo are right up your alley. Made from 100 per cent cotton high-density twill, it features a mid to high-rise waist, straight cut legs and side slip pockets. They’re a comfortable length that makes it suitable to wear to work and they can be dressed up or down.
BEST BEACH SHORTS
Seven Wonders Harry Short, $79 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
You’ll love these shorts for those street-to-beach days. Crafted from a cotton-linen blend, this sleek pair features a cute green wavey trim detail, elasticated waist with a drawcord, side slip pockets and an easy, relaxed fit.
Endless Soak Up Terry Beach Shorts, $34.99 (down from $49.99) at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
If you plan to spend your summer days beachin’ it up, you’ll want to do so in these shorts. Made from a lightweight terry towelling fabric, they have an elasticated high-rise waist, side slip pockets and a slightly relaxed fit. They’re easy to slip on and perfect for wearing over your swimmers.
Mooloola Olivia Shorts, $29.99 at City Beach
What You Need To Know
Made from cotton, these comfy shorts are perfect lounging around at home or at the beach. Designed with a high-rise waist with a drawcord, side slip pockets and mini length – they’re easy to pop on throughout the summer.
BEST WOMEN’S CARGO SHORTS
What You Need To Know
You can’t go wrong with a pair of khaki cargo shorts for summer. Made from a cotton-elastane blend, this pair from H&M offers minimal stretch for comfort. It has a high-rise waist, patch pockets on the front and back and belt loops with a little eyelet for easy attaching of keys and more.
Supre Gigi Cargo Shorts, $31.50 (down from $45) at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Featuring low to mid-rise waist, these cool cargo shorts are longer in length and have two flap pockets on the side of each leg as well as side slip pockets. While they might be a bit of a more ‘daring’ style to pull off, it’s actually really easy to style – just pop on a cropped tee or tank and sneakers for a comfy casual look.
WHAT IS THE BEST MATERIAL FOR SHORTS IN SUMMER?
You don’t want to be sweating up a storm throughout summer so the best materials to keep in mind when buying shorts are:
Cotton – Affordable and natural, cotton is an excellent choice as it’s so widely available. It’s airy, lightweight, soft on the skin and will dry easily if it gets wet.
Linen – Made from natural fibres, linen is an extremely breathable fabric. It’s woven loosely together so heat can escape more easily from the body. Not only does it feel cool on the skin but it has also moisture-absorbing properties.
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO STYLE SHORTS IN 2023?
I think it’s important to keep in mind that style is subjective and not everyone has the same taste in fashion. However, I think there are some outfit formulas that never fail when it comes to styling shorts for any occasion or vibe.
Denim shorts: The tried and true denim shorts are the most versatile shorts you can have. They pair so perfectly with simple tees, graphic tees, tank tops, crop tops – you name it. Plus, they’re easy to dress up or down.
Baggy shorts: One outfit formula I like to follow when wearing baggy bottoms is the “little top, big pants” formula. Which, as the name suggests, you’d wear a tight crop top with baggy shorts to balance out the proportions. But, that’s not to say a baggy tee wouldn’t work because it would!
Tailored shorts: As versatile as they come, tailored shorts can be dressed up for work with a button up shirt, blazer and heeled sandals or down with a bodysuit and plain sneakers.
Casual shorts/boxer shorts: Best kept casual, boxer shorts look great when styled with a basic tee or tank top, sneakers, crew socks and a jumper tied around your neck for a stylish athleisure take.
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