Shorts have a reputation for being an uncomfortable summer wardrobe staple — but they don’t have to be. There’s no need to struggle with tight silhouettes that ride up when tons of loose, elegant and stretchy styles exist. The best shorts include ruched side panels or drawstring waists and are often made from soft, breezy fabrics like linen and cotton.
The good news is that flattering shorts styles are easy to find. I found 19 incredibly comfortable shorts from Amazon, Nordstrom, Quince and more that you’ll want to wear all summer long. Even if you’re hoping to find longer Bermuda shorts that provide more coverage, I’ve included them in this mix. Now, you can keep cool, confident and comfy all season long.
19 Loose, Elegant Shorts Styles You’ll Actually Want to Wear
1. Elevated Gym Shorts: While these drawstring shorts certainly don’t look like athleticwear, thanks to the ruched waist and large pockets, they’re just as (if not more!) comfortable.
2. All in the Details: The intricate lace hem and tassel drawstring front completely elevate these soft shorts and make them ideal for beach vacations.
3. Seaside Vibes: Every woman who summers in Cape Cod owns a shorts style just like this pinstripe linen pair. The style is easy, breezy and doubles as a beach coverup.
4. Not Your Average Denim: If you think denim shorts are uncomfortable, this slightly baggy, butter yellow style — which features a rope drawstring closure — completely proves otherwise.
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5. Vintage-Inspired: We’ve been loving the lacey, satin shorts revival. You can get in on the trend without sifting through your local thrift store with this Quince pair made from 100% silk.
6. Patchwork Princess: A fun, loud short is an easy way to spice up any outfit. Let Abercrombie’s patterned cotton pair be your statement piece — all you need is a white tee to complete the look.
7. Best of Both Worlds: Sporty, spice and everything nice! These lace-lined gym shorts completely embody that ethos.
8. Sneaky Stretch: These shorts might not look stretchy, but there’s hidden ruched side detailing that makes them easy to pull on and morph to your curves.
9. Walk on the Wild Side: What’s more fun than leopard print in the summer? (The answer is nothing.) We can’t get enough of the black and white spotted design on these ruffled tie-front shorts.
10. Cutie Patootie: Planning a summertime picnic? You need Lulus’ scalloped gingham shorts to match the blanket and the carefree vibes.
11. Bermuda Baby: Well-tailored, pleated Bermuda shorts are the solution to hot days at the office — not only are they long enough to be work-appropriate, but they also look incredibly sleek.
12. Flouncy and Feminine: Mini skirts are fun, but they’re not always practical. These flowy pleated shorts provide a similar effect without the chance of a wardrobe malfunction.
13. Summertime Vibes: Between the wavy embroidered suns, vibrant green hue and soft linen-cotton blend material, these wide-leg shorts have the potential to become your favorite bottoms of summer.
14. High Fashion: Look like you just stepped off a designer runway in some cool, angular cotton-blend shorts that artfully slim legs.
15. Work of Art: The blue floral motif on these breezy cotton blend shorts reminds Us of antique dining wear. It’s so intricate, they look like a display at a museum.
16. Euro Summer: Even if you aren’t heading to Europe this summer, you should take notes from Europeans and exclusively wear these soft, ventilated linen shorts from Quince.
17. Wear Anywhere: These lace-trimmed pull-on shorts are so comfortable, you’ll want to wear them to bed — and why not? They can totally double as pajamas.
18. Island Time: Blend in with the locals during your tropical vacation in these knee-length ruffled and ruched Bermuda shorts.
19. One in Every Color: Shoppers call these extra comfy shorts “fashionable and functional” because they’re breathable, lightweight and wrinkle resistant.
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