The best 6 women’s shorts to wear for summer 2023

Jan 31, 2024

From classic denim shorts to tailored options

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Whether you’re looking for a pair of shorts you can wear for casual outings, athletic activities or dressier occasions, there are a ton of options to consider. From classic denim shorts with various washes and cuts to tailored, high-waisted options, here are some highly-rated pieces you can wear all summer long.

Best dressy: Reformation Mason ShortBest Bermuda: Gap 10″ High Rise Stride Denim Bermuda ShortsBest denim: AGOLDE Parker Long ShortBest high rise: Everlane The Way-High Twill ShortBest bike shorts: lululemon Align High-Rise ShortBest budget-friendly: Extra High-Waisted Striped Taylor Trouser Shorts

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Best dressy: Reformation Mason Short

Why buy: These shorts from Reformation are high rise and designed to be fitted at the waist, with a relaxed fit everywhere else. Their features include belt loops, side pockets, a finished hem, a pleated front and a zipper fly. They’re made with a lightweight woven suiting fabric that is made sustainably in Los Angeles.

Price: $188Where to buy: ReformationSizes: 0 – 12Colours: Black, brown, green, white

Best Bermuda: Gap 10″ High Rise Stride Denim Bermuda Shorts

Why buy: These high-rise, A-line shorts are snug on the waist, fitted at the hips and relaxed through the leg. They can be dressed up or down easily depending on the occasion. They’re responsibly made with Gap’s water-saving Washwell program. They don’t have any stretch to them, so they’ll keep their structure over time.

Price: $79.95Where to buy: GapSizes: 24 – 35, regular, tall, petiteColours: Black, blue

Best denim: AGOLDE Parker Long Short

Why buy: These high-rise AGOLDE shorts are made with 100 per cent cotton. They feature a button fly, raw-cut hem and frayed detail. Reviewers love the length — they’re not daisy dukes or Bermudas, but right in the middle. They appreciate that they provide full coverage and say they don’t ride up, either.

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Price: $209.86Where to buy: RevolveSizes: 23 – 34Colours: Blue

Best high rise: Everlane The Way-High Twill Short

Why buy: These ultra high-rise shorts from Everlane are made of light, breathable cotton canvas with a touch of stretch, so sitting down in them is actually an option. They feature a double-button closure with a zip fly and side and back pockets. Reviewers say the material is thick — meaning you won’t have to worry about them being see-through, even if you go with one of the lighter colours.

Price: $74 (originally $106)Where to buy: EverlaneSizes: 00 – 16Colours: Black, beige, white

Best bike shorts: lululemon Align High-Rise Short

Why buy: These high-rise lululemon shorts are so soft, they’ll feel like a second skin. Reviewers say they’re super comfortable and that they’ll save you from chaffing this summer, too. You can wear them to yoga, around the house, under dresses, on errands — you name it. They have a hidden waistband pocket that’ll fit a card or a key, too.

Price: $64Where to buy: lululemonSizes: 0 – 20 and four lengthsColours: Black, blue, grey and 10 more colours.

Best budget-friendly: Extra High-Waisted Striped Taylor Trouser Shorts

Why buy: These striped trouser shorts have a partially-elasticized waistband for extra comfort. They’re extra high rise and feature a concealed double hook-and-bar closure, zip fly and interior button. Reviewers love how comfortable and lightweight they are and also mention that they’re great to wear at the office.

Price: $15 (originally $39.99)Where to buy: Old NavySizes: XS – 4XLColours: Grey stripes

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