The perfect summer shorts for women should feel like they were made for your body. They should be cool and breathable on hot days. They should stay in place when you move without riding up or feeling tight. And they should look good enough that you feel confident wearing them whether you are running errands, going to the beach, heading to a backyard barbecue, or exploring a new city on vacation.
The good news is that the best summer shorts come in so many different styles, lengths, and fabrics that there really is a perfect pair for every woman. High waist denim shorts, flowy linen shorts, athletic shorts with pockets, casual chino styles, and more. Whatever your preference there is an amazing option waiting for you.
In this guide we cover the top 10 best summer shorts for women across every style and every occasion. We also include a full buying guide, styling tips, and answers to the most common questions women have about summer shorts. If you are building your complete summer wardrobe, make sure you also check out our guides to the best boat neck mini dresses, the best wrap skirt dresses, and our full roundup of the best women's fashion picks on ProductChop for more wardrobe inspiration.
1 Best Summer Shorts for Women for Everyday Casual Wear
The shorts you reach for without thinking on a regular summer morning. That is what the best everyday summer shorts for women should be. Easy, comfortable, and good-looking without any effort at all.
This pick is made from a soft and breathable fabric that feels genuinely comfortable from the moment you put them on. They do not dig in at the waist, they do not ride up when you walk, and they do not feel tight after you sit down for a while. They just fit the way good shorts should fit.
They come in a great range of colors and neutrals so you can pair them with basically every top you already own. White, beige, black, and soft pastels are all available so building a small collection of these to wear all summer long just makes sense. Pair them with a cozy casual top on cooler summer mornings for an effortless everyday look.
2 Best Summer Shorts for Women for the Gym and Working Out
Nobody wants to work out in shorts that bunch up, ride up, or feel uncomfortable the moment you start moving. A good pair of women's summer workout shorts should move with your body and stay exactly where they should no matter what you are doing.
This pick is made from a stretchy moisture wicking fabric that pulls sweat away from your skin and keeps you dry and comfortable during your entire workout. The waistband is wide and secure so it does not roll down when you bend or stretch. And there is no chafing which is honestly one of the most important things in a pair of workout shorts.
They work for running, gym sessions, yoga, cycling, swimming cover-ups, and any other summer activity you have planned. The built-in liner or compression shorts in some styles also means you do not have to worry about anything when you are moving. For great shoes to match your active summer style, check out our best Nike women's court shoes guide.
3 Best Summer Shorts for Women: High Waist Denim Shorts
High waist denim shorts are one of those wardrobe pieces that never really go out of style. They have been a summer staple for decades because they genuinely work. They are flattering, versatile, and they go with more things than almost any other type of shorts.
A good pair of high waist denim summer shorts for women cinches at the waist in a way that creates a beautiful shape. The high rise gives you a longer looking leg and a more defined waist. They look great with a simple tucked-in tank top, a breezy linen shirt, or a fitted crop top.
This pick has the right amount of stretch to feel comfortable without losing the structure that makes denim look good. The distressed details and classic wash give them that effortless cool summer look. For the perfect top to pair with these, look at our picks for the best retro oval sunglasses for women and complete your casual summer look head to toe.
4 Best Summer Shorts for Women: Linen Shorts for Hot Days
When it gets really hot outside, linen is your best friend. Linen is one of the most breathable natural fabrics in the world and linen summer shorts for women are genuinely one of the coolest things you can wear when the temperature climbs.
This pick is made from a high quality linen blend that is soft against the skin, incredibly breathable, and has that relaxed effortless look that linen always brings. The wide leg cut allows air to circulate freely around your legs which makes a real difference on those really hot days when you feel like nothing helps.
The slightly more relaxed and elevated look of linen shorts means they work beyond just casual beach days. They look great for summer lunches, city exploring, casual dinners, and outdoor events where you want to look put together but still feel completely cool and comfortable. They pair beautifully with a simple white tank top or a boat neck style top for a clean and polished summer look.
5 Best Summer Shorts for Women for the Beach and Pool
Beach and pool shorts need to do things that regular shorts do not. They need to dry fast when they get wet. They need to look good over a swimsuit. They need to handle sand and water without falling apart. And they should look fun and summery because that is the whole point of being at the beach.
This pick is made from a quick-dry fabric that goes from wet to dry in no time. You can take a swim, come out of the water, put these on, and be completely comfortable within minutes. The fabric does not cling when wet and it dries fast so you never have to sit around in uncomfortable damp shorts.
They look great over a bikini bottom as a beach cover-up. The fun summer colors and prints make them perfect for beach photos and vacation memories. Light enough to throw in a beach bag without any extra bulk. For a complete beach day look, pair these with one of our picks from the best oval polarized sunglasses guide to protect your eyes in style.
6 Best Summer Shorts for Women for Travel
When you are packing for a summer trip you need shorts that earn their place in your suitcase. The best travel summer shorts for women are ones that pack small, stay wrinkle free, work for multiple occasions, and feel comfortable on long days of exploring.
This pick is made from a lightweight wrinkle-resistant fabric that folds down to almost nothing and comes out of your bag looking neat and ready to wear. You do not need to iron them or steam them. Just shake them out and you are good to go which is exactly what you want when you are traveling and time and space are limited.
They are neutral and versatile enough to pair with many different tops so you can create multiple outfits from one pair of shorts. Wear them for sightseeing during the day and dress them up slightly with a nice blouse for an evening out. That kind of versatility makes them one of the smartest things you can pack. They complement any of the outfits in our best wrap skirt dresses guide for building a complete travel capsule wardrobe.
7 Best Summer Shorts for Women: Biker Shorts for Everyday Style
Biker shorts went from workout gear to full-on fashion staple and they are not going anywhere. The best biker summer shorts for women are comfortable enough to wear all day, flattering enough to wear out, and versatile enough to style in a dozen different ways.
This pick fits like a second skin without feeling tight or restrictive. The high waist holds everything in place and gives a smooth silhouette that works with oversized tops, cropped jackets, long shirts, and anything else you want to throw over them. They do not ride up when you walk which is the number one complaint with biker shorts and this pair does not have that problem.
Wear them with an oversized blazer and sneakers for a cool street style look. Or pair them with a flowy top and sandals for a casual summer outfit. They are one of those pieces that works harder the more creative you get with styling them. For the perfect oversized top to style with these, check out our best oversized hoodies for women guide.
8 Best Summer Shorts for Women for Plus Size Fit
Finding well-fitting comfortable summer shorts for plus size women should not be as hard as it sometimes is. But when you find a great pair it genuinely makes your whole summer better. This pick is designed with fuller figures in mind and it shows in every aspect of the fit and construction.
The waistband is wide and sits comfortably without digging in or rolling down throughout the day. The thigh area has enough room to move freely without feeling tight or causing chafing. The length is generous enough to feel confident and comfortable without being overly long or unflattering.
They come in an extended size range and in many beautiful summer colors. Because every woman deserves to be comfortable and stylish in the summer heat. We also have a dedicated guide to the best shapewear for plus size women if you want extra smoothing and support underneath.
9 Best Summer Shorts for Women for a Night Out Look
Shorts are not just for daytime anymore. The right pair of summer shorts for women can absolutely work for a night out and look genuinely impressive when styled correctly. The key is choosing a pair with an elevated fabric and a more fitted flattering cut.
This pick has a smooth luxe-feeling fabric that drapes beautifully and catches the light in a subtle and attractive way. The high waist and tailored cut give a polished and intentional look that is clearly different from a casual daytime pair of shorts. The length hits at a confident and flattering point that works perfectly for a summer evening.
Pair them with strappy heeled sandals, a satin or silk style top, and some delicate jewelry and you have a genuinely impressive summer evening outfit. Most people will not even register that you are wearing shorts because the whole look is so put together. Style them alongside one of the elegant options in our best strapless summer dresses guide to see more elevated summer looks.
10 Best Summer Shorts for Women Overall Best Value
Sometimes you just want the best possible summer shorts at the smartest possible price without spending hours comparing options. This value pick delivers exactly that. It is genuinely impressive quality for the price and once you try them you will understand why they are so popular.
The fabric is soft, breathable, and holds its shape after many washes. The fit is flattering in a relaxed and comfortable way that works for most body types without needing any adjustments. They come in a wide range of colors so you can grab two or three pairs and have your summer shorts situation completely sorted in one easy purchase.
This is the pair you buy when you want something that just works without overthinking it. Good quality, great price, comfortable all day, and versatile enough to wear in many different summer situations. Grab them right now on Amazon here while your size is still available because these sell out fast every summer season.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Summer Shorts for Women
There are a few important things to think about before you buy your next pair of summer shorts for women. Getting these right means you end up with a pair you actually wear all summer instead of one that sits in a drawer after the first try.
Cotton and linen are the best natural fabrics for summer shorts because they breathe well and keep you cool. Moisture wicking polyester blends are great for workouts. For casual wear a soft cotton blend with a little spandex gives you comfort and flexibility. Avoid heavy fabrics like thick denim in very hot climates.
High waist shorts are very popular right now because they are flattering and comfortable. They sit above the hip and create a defined waist shape. Mid rise shorts sit at the natural waist and feel more classic and relaxed. Low rise shorts sit below the waist and have a more casual laid back feel. Think about what makes you feel most comfortable and confident.
Very short mini shorts work best for beach days and casual summer outings. Mid thigh length shorts are the most versatile and work for casual outings, travel, and even some smarter occasions. Longer bermuda or city shorts that hit just above the knee work well for office settings and more formal summer occasions.
The waistband makes or breaks a pair of shorts. An elasticated waistband is the most comfortable and forgiving especially for all-day wear. A structured button and zip waistband gives a more polished denim or tailored look. A drawstring waist is the most flexible and adjustable. Think about which type suits the style and occasion you need the shorts for.
Real functional pockets in shorts make them so much more practical and enjoyable to wear every day. Always check whether the pockets are deep enough to actually hold things. Fake sewn-shut pockets are a huge disappointment. If you find a pair with good deep pockets in a style and fabric you love, buy them immediately.
Ready to find your perfect summer shorts? Check out our best value pick on Amazon right now before your size sells out.
See Best Price on AmazonOverall Pros and Cons of Summer Shorts for Women
How to Style Summer Shorts for Women
Styling summer shorts for women is one of the easiest and most fun things about building a summer wardrobe. Because shorts are casual by nature they give you a lot of freedom to play with different tops, shoes, and accessories to create many different looks from one pair.
For a classic casual summer look, pair denim shorts with a simple white tank top and flat leather sandals. This combination works every single time without any effort. Add a pair of sunglasses and a woven tote bag and you look completely put together. Check out our best retro oval sunglasses for women to find the perfect pair to complete this look.
For a more elevated summer shorts look, try linen or tailored shorts with a tucked-in blouse or a fitted off-shoulder top. Add block heeled sandals and minimal jewelry and you have a smart casual outfit that works for summer lunches, outdoor events, and casual evenings out.
For an active sporty look, pair biker shorts or athletic shorts with an oversized graphic tee or sports top and fresh trainers. This look is very popular right now and incredibly comfortable for busy summer days when you need to move around a lot.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Summer Shorts
- Wash cotton and linen shorts in cold water to keep their color and shape for longer. Hot water can cause shrinkage especially in natural fabrics.
- Turn dark denim shorts inside out before washing to prevent the color fading as quickly and to protect any distressed details.
- Air dry linen and cotton shorts instead of tumble drying. Heat causes shrinkage and can damage the elasticity in waistbands over time.
- Fold soft shorts rather than hanging them. Hanging lightweight shorts on thin hangers can stretch the waistband and distort the shape over time.
- Steam or iron linen shorts before wearing them if you want them to look their sharpest. Linen wrinkles are part of its charm but a quick steam makes a real difference for smarter occasions.
- Apply anti-chafe balm or stick on inner thighs before wearing shorts on very hot days to prevent irritation especially with denim styles.
- When you find a pair of shorts you love buy them in two or three colors immediately. Great fitting shorts are hard to find and they often sell out or get discontinued.
FAQ: Best Summer Shorts for Women
Linen shorts and lightweight cotton shorts are the best options for very hot weather because these natural fabrics breathe exceptionally well and keep you cool. Avoid thick denim or synthetic fabrics in extreme heat as they can trap heat and make you uncomfortable.
Mid-thigh length shorts that hit about two to three inches above the knee are generally considered the most flattering length for most women. They show enough leg to look summery without being so short that they feel uncomfortable. High waist styles at this length are particularly flattering because they elongate the legs.
Choose shorts with a longer inseam. An inseam of three inches or more tends to stay in place much better than very short inseam styles. Biker shorts almost never ride up. Fitted shorts with a little stretch also tend to stay put better than very loose styles. Anti-chafe products on inner thighs also help significantly.
It depends on your body shape and personal preference. High waist shorts create a defined waist shape and are very flattering for most women. Mid rise shorts have a more classic relaxed feel that many women find more comfortable for all-day wear. Both are popular summer styles and the best choice is simply whichever makes you feel most confident and comfortable.
Yes in many casual and creative workplaces. Choose tailored Bermuda or city shorts that hit at the knee or just above rather than very short casual styles. Pair them with a structured blouse or a smart top and closed toe shoes or block heeled sandals. The more tailored the shorts the more work-appropriate they become.
A simple tucked-in tank top or a tied-front shirt is the most classic pairing with summer shorts. Crop tops work beautifully with high waist styles. An oversized linen shirt or boyfriend shirt worn open over a tank top with shorts is one of the most effortlessly stylish summer looks you can put together in seconds.
Flat sandals are the most casual and practical everyday choice. Strappy heeled sandals or mules elevate shorts for evening wear. White sneakers give a cool sporty casual look. Espadrilles work beautifully with linen or beach style shorts. The choice really depends on the occasion and how dressed up or casual you want to look.
Yes absolutely. Denim shorts are a timeless summer wardrobe staple that genuinely never goes completely out of style. Right now high waist denim shorts with a slightly longer inseam and a light to medium wash are very much on trend. They are one of those classic summer pieces that works year after year with very little change needed.
Look for styles with a wide comfortable elasticated waistband that does not dig in. Choose fabrics with a little stretch for ease of movement. A slightly longer inseam of three to four inches provides more coverage and comfort. High waist styles are very flattering on plus size figures. Always check the specific brand's size chart rather than assuming your usual size will work.
Amazon has one of the largest selections of summer shorts for women at every price point with fast delivery and easy returns. You can find our best value pick directly on Amazon here. For premium options, brands like Lululemon, Madewell, and Free People have excellent summer shorts collections worth exploring.
Final Thoughts
The best summer shorts for women are the ones that make you feel cool, comfortable, and confident when the temperature rises. Whether you need something for the gym, the beach, a vacation, a night out, or just a regular summer day, the perfect pair of shorts is out there for you.
Start with our best value pick and grab it right now on Amazon here before your size sells out. And if you are building your complete summer wardrobe, do not miss our guides to the best boat neck mini dresses, the best wrap skirt dresses, and our full collection of the best sunglasses for women to complete every summer look perfectly.
Summer goes by fast. Make sure you spend it feeling great in clothes that actually work for you.
