The Best Shorts for Grown-Ass Women: Styles for Most Every Body
TL;DR
Quick Takeaways for the Time-Pressed Grown Woman:
- Go up one size from your usual pants and buy one inch longer than you think you want.
- Stretch fabric (even just 2-5%) makes a meaningful difference in fit, comfort, and how long the shorts stay looking good.
- The mid-length sweet spot is a 4″-7″ inseam for most bodies; Bermuda length (10″-12″) works great if you prefer more coverage.
- My picks for the best shorts for women over 40: Spanx SuperSmooth Short (best overall), Kut from the Kloth Jane (best denim), Talbots Perfect Short (best range of lengths), Athleta Wayfind (best active).
Shorts? Let's Talk, My Friend
Shorts are one of the worst things to shop for. And for a lot of women in midlife, we've graduated from “I'll find a pair that works” to “you know what, I'm tapping out.” I get it. I was there.
But if you've landed here, you're considering shorts, and I am here to help.
Hi, I'm Alison Gary, and I've been writing about real-life style for grown-ass women at Wardrobe Oxygen since 2005. I'm in my early 50s, 5'3″, and depending on the day, a size 14 or 16. I have a juicy booty, a tummy that is basically a scrapbook of weight fluctuation and pregnancy, and thighs that will devour shorts whole if given the chance. I also have middle-age knees and legs that now get SPF but show the souvenirs of baby oil summers and a tanning bed phase I'd like to forget. In short (no pun intended): I have pretty normal, relatable grown-woman legs.
And I spent years hiding them, embarrassed about my knees, my veins, my skintone, my cellulite, and yes, the thigh situation. But in the past few years I decided I'd rather live my life than opt out, and for living my life, I want shorts. That beingsaid, I still care about looking good on my own terms. So I did the research, did a lot of shopping, and I'm here to share what I found to be worth your time and money.
Whether you're brand new to shopping for shorts or just need a refresh, this is the guide I wish I'd had. And if this feels a bit familiar, I took a post I wrote way back in 2021. It was time for not just a refresh, but a total overhaul including shopping tips, fit tips, and the best shorts available this season.
How to Shop for Shorts in Midlife: Real-life Tips for Better Results
Go up one size from your usual pants
Shorts are essentially cropped pants, but they fit differently. Across the board and across price points, going up one size gets you better fit through the seat and thighs, less bunching at the crotch, and shorts that stay put when you walk. If you've been reading Wardrobe Oxygen for a while, you know I've been preaching this shorts tip for well over a decade because it is by far, makes the biggest impact.
Buy one inch longer than you think you want
In 2026 you can find shorts from a 2.5″ inseam all the way to 14″. I wore a 3″ inseam confidently in my 30s, moved to a 4″ in my 40s, and my sweet spot now is 5″. And when I look back at photos from each era, the difference is barely perceptible.
An extra inch isn't about modesty or “dressing your age.” It's about fit and comfort, and no matter your clothing size or lifestyle, your body changes over time and you may find a slightly longer inseam may flow better or fit better in the crotch while providing essentially the same effect.
Stretch is your friend
Even a small percentage of Lycra or spandex (2-5% is plenty) changes everything. It adds comfort, helps the shorts keep their shape through the day, and reduces those creased “whisker” lines at the thighs. You can find stretch in linen, chino, denim, crepe, and chambray now. Just know that stretch breaks down in the dryer; your shorts will last longer if you line dry them; you can tumble on air once they're dry or when almost dry to get out wrinkles.
Modernize Your Fabric and Silhouette
This is a hard one to articulate, but when you see it you can't unsee it. And right now, there are some shorts trends that go against this. Short loose shorts that are lightweight fabrics (linen, voile, silk) if not styled with expertise, can look like you're still in your pajamas. Longer skinny shorts of heavyweight fabrics, especially with longer tops, can look really dated.
Right now, shorts are looser. Not huge and baggy, but skinny jorts and chinos that are a second skin are not only uncomfortable but passé. There should be some space between the hem of your shorts and your thigh. And the really filmy flimsy fabrics, unless you're confident with them (and then likely not reading this), they will look more modern and be more comfortable if they're longer or have structural details (zipper fly, belt loops, back pockets, etc.).
Don't be loyal to a brand that doesn't fit anymore
Just like with bras, the shorts brand that worked a decade ago may not be the right one for you now. Again, this isn't about “dressing your age,” it's about accepting that a lot of retailers don't have the same fit, quality, or design they used to. And that you may not be the same person, have the same needs, or the same tastes.
Try a new-to-you retailer, maybe one listed below or one you heard about on social media or from your cousin. Try a different fabric, a different hemline, a different silhouette. Don't discount brands that may seem geared towards other aesthetics or age groups (including the ones your teen may shop); especially when it comes to shorts you can find gems in the most unlikely places.
When you find a winner, buy multiples
If you find a pair of shorts that fits well, stays put, and makes you feel good, buy them in every color you'll actually wear. Heck, buy a second pair in your most-worn shade. I promise you, no one will notice and you can stop searching and start living.
Keep the details simple, at least to start
Paperbag waists, built-in belts, side stripes, pleats, embellishments: all of these make shorts harder to style and more memorable as individual pieces. If you're trying to build a shorts wardrobe, start with simple, clean silhouettes. Once you know what works for your body and your closet, then you can have fun with the details.
What Length Short Works Best?
Inseams are measured on shorts and pants from the crotch seam to the hem. Width of leg opening and weight of fabric can affect length on shorts, so factor these in when determining what inseam you buy. The good news: in 2026, any length is great. But let's discuss the most universally loved inseams lengths for shorts:
Mid-length: 4″-7″ inseam
This is the most universally wearable length. If you hold your hands relaxed at your sides, a mid-length short hits somewhere around the tip of your longest finger. It works across a range of body types, heights, and sizes, and it looks good with tucked-in tops, loose tees, and everything in between.
Shorts this length are sometimes called city shorts, classic shorts, Jamaica shorts, or midi shorts. Shorts that are 7″ or to about 9″ are sometimes called weekender shorts. When shopping, these terms may pop up and help you determine which styles are worth investigating.
Bermuda length: 10″-12″ inseam
A classic Bermuda short with a straight fit is perennially stylish and works especially well if you prefer more coverage on your thighs. It looks great with a tucked-in top or a loose button-down and is one of the most versatile things you can have in a summer wardrobe. A Bermuda short ends around 1″ above your kneecap, so inseam is dependent on your specific body; do not be afraid to have shorts hemmed to the length that is right for you.
More casual or athletic styles of longer shorts are often called boardshorts. Pedal pushers end below the knee, and capri pants are between calf and above ankle.
Both Bermuda and mid-length shorts are well-represented in the picks below. A few even come in multiple inseam options so you can try both.
What Color Shorts Are Best for Women in Midlife?
Again, any color goes in 2026. And just like your fall and winter wardrobe, if you're a jeans kind of person, you're going to want at least one pair of denim shorts. White and black shorts can look dressier than other colors, prints are really big this year, and shorts that are low-contrast to your skin will do a better job of distracting from your legs (though please, have at least some contrast, we've all seen someone who at first glance looks nekkid from the waist down thanks to skin-colored pants or shorts).
The Best Denim Shorts for Grown Women
For a full roundup of the best denim shorts with more options and details, check out this dedicated guide to the best denim shorts for grown women. But for 2026, these are the top five jean shorts for us grown women:
Kut from the Kloth Jane High Rise Denim Short
If I had to point you to one denim short, this would be it. The Jane has hundreds of five-star reviews on the brand site, sells out regularly at department stores, and has been a viral hit on social media more than once. The subtle A-line cut is what makes it work across a range of leg shapes; it gives your thighs room without going wide or boxy. Reviewers for the standard fit and the plus size fit consistently note that it keeps its shape all day, which is a higher bar than most denim clears. Available in sizes 00-18 (straight sizes) and 10W-26W (plus sizes). The “Peaceful” wash is the most versatile and the one I'd start with.
Madewell Perfect Vintage Midlength Jean Short
The name earns its keep. If you want a pair of denim shorts that look genuinely cool without showing anything you don't want to show, these are worth a try. Made from 99% cotton/1% elastane with a high waist and Madewell's signature Magic Pockets in front for a hold-you-in effect at the front. Hemmed and cutoff versions and every option is on-trend for 2026. The curvy and standard versions have a 5″ inseam; the plus size version runs a 6″ inseam. Available in standard, curvy, and plus fits.
Liverpool Weekender Relaxed Bermuda Short
If you want a longer denim short with a modern silhouette, these are it. Made from 73% cotton/27% polyester with excellent stretch recovery, they look like traditional denim but move nothing like it. The hook-and-eye closure instead of a chunky button gives them a more refined finish. The 11″ inseam hits at a classic Bermuda length. Sizes 0-16.
NYDJ Lilly Denim Plus Size Short
The Lilly offers NYDJ's tummy-control technology and signature stretch in a longer denim short designed specifically for plus sizes (though Nordstrom only offers a Misses cut). The 11″ inseam and 25″ leg opening give you room to move without the shorts feeling baggy, and the length makes them a solid choice for a day of sightseeing or sitting on a plastic chair in the sun (IYKYK). Available in classic denim, white, and khaki. Sizes 14W-22W on the NYDJ site; Nordstrom also offers Misses.
Universal Standard ComfortDenim Marche Short
The look of denim with the feel of loungewear. Pull-on style with elastic and drawstring waist, four-way stretch, and a 5.5″ inseam available in two washes. If you love the look of denim but find traditional denim uncomfortable in summer heat, this is worth trying. Sizes 00-40 (4XS-4XL).
The Best Linen Shorts for Grown Women
It's breathable, it's durable… but it also wrinkles, can be transparent, shrink, bag out in the bum… you take the good, you take the bad, you take them both and there you have the linen shorts. Let's focus on the good. Wrinkles are expected and in 2026, totally respectable. And some linen is less wrinkly and more opaque than others. These, IMO are the best and will last more than one season:
Universal Standard Juniper Linen Easy Pull-On Shorts
Linen shorts are often too short or too long, and if you have curves in the belly or bum, they can feel snug and end up stretching out and looking like a diaper by noon. These shorts from Universal Standard are a 6″ inseam, are designed to work well with fuller bodies, and are a blend of 55% linen, 42% rayon, and 3% Elastane which resists wrinkles, is more opaque, but still breezy. A perk: Universal Standard has a range of tops that come in the same colors or prints for a comfortable yet very on-trend matched set. Sizes 00-40 (4XS-4XL).
Eileen Fisher Organic Linen Shorts
If you desire a more tailored short with proper waistband and fly, and don't want the shorts to be a linen version of Saran Wrap, these Eileen Fisher shorts are for you. With an 8″ inseam, these are longer but the tailored design makes them feel just right in length. Made from 100% organic linen, EF linen is known for durability, good drape, and more opacity than other brands. Sizes XXS-3X.
Garnet Hill Coastal Linen Shorts
Available in a 4″ inseam and a 7″ inseam, these are classic pull-on linen shorts, but they are garment washed 100% EUROPEAN FLAX™ Linen with pockets deep and sturdy enough for your phone and keys, and a tonal drawstring as well as elastic for a secure and custom fit. Sizes 0-2/16-18 or XS-XL.
The Best Everyday Shorts for Grown Women
Spanx SuperSmooth Stretch Twill Short
This is my personal most-worn short, and it consistently gets rave reviews from the Wardrobe Oxygen community. The silhouette flares subtly from the hip, which gives your thighs room and stops the shorts from riding up as you move. Front pockets have hidden zipper closures so nothing falls out; back patch pockets are big enough for your phone but sit at a position that actually flatters the back view. Available in a 5″ or 7″ inseam, which means there's a length here for most preferences. Sizes XS-3X. Both inseam lengths available across the full size range.
Faherty Stretch Terry Patch Pocket Short
Looks like a pump, feels like a sneaker… remember that Easy Spirit jingle? Well, these shorts from Faherty look like denim or twill, but feel like sweatshorts. Clean lines, front patch pockets and back welt pockets, a 4.5″ inseam and made from 83% regenerative cotton, 16% recycled polyester, and 1% Spandex, these may convert you into a shorts lover. Waist sizes 24-33.
Talbots Perfect Short
With hundreds of five-star reviews and availability in four lengths (7″, 9″, 10.5″, and 13″), these shorts genuinely work for a range of heights and comfort levels and genuinely deserve their name. Every length is available in Misses, Petite, and Plus, and most lengths also come in Petite Plus, which is rare enough to be worth calling out. Available in Misses, Petite, Plus, and Petite Plus.
Tommy Bahama Boracay Chino Short
A long-standing bestseller for good reason. Made from a cotton/TENCEL/spandex blend that's lightweight, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant, the Boracay is available in a 5″ inseam, 7″ inseam, and a 10″ Bermuda length. I think the Bermuda version is the standout here: not too fitted, not too relaxed, and versatile enough to work with a tucked-in top or a loose linen shirt. Sizes 0-16.
The Best Elevated/Dressier Shorts for Grown Women
No one would consider shorts dressy enough for a cocktail party. But for a nice dinner on the water, a creative workplace, or sightseeing in a southern city, these would be great options:
Lands' End High Rise Pleated Crepe Short
These shorts are a great example of what I mean about dressy shorts. This textured crepe short has a hidden elastic back waistband, a wrinkle-resistant fabric, and a clean, tailored look that can go from a blazer situation to a weekend lunch without missing a beat. The 7″ inseam keeps them versatile; I think these are a great choice for travel due to their versatility, easy care, and polish. Sizes 6-26W (Misses and Plus).
Chico's Emme Fly Front Sateen Shorts
Made from a blend of 63% cotton, 34% polyester, and 3% Spandex, these 6.5″ inseam shorts from Chico's are polished but also comfortable. I'm not a fan of faux pockets, but with shorts, they can be a blessing (elevate the look without adding bulk) and these shorts do have front pockets. The subtle a-line dresses up the shorts while giving freedom of movement and a great shape. Sizes 0-20/22.
The Best Active and Utility Shorts for Grown Women
For more active and athletic short options, visit this dedicated active shorts guide and this guide to the best skorts for grown women. But for 2026, I think these are the standout winners:
L.L.Bean Vista Camp Short
These are not going to win any fashion awards, but they are really, truly excellent shorts for anything that involves actually doing something. Hiking, camping, gardening, or just running around on a hot day, they work. They also style up surprisingly well with a Breton tee and Birkenstocks or a linen shirt and sneakers. The fit works across a wide range of body types. Sizes XS-3X.
Duluth Trading Dry on the Fly Short
Built for the woman who is too busy living life to fuss with her clothes. Lightweight nylon that dries fast, a 3% spandex blend for stretch, a widened elastic back waistband that doesn't bunch or gap, and Duluth's Crouch Gusset for full range of motion. UPF 50 sun protection. This is the short you grab when you know you're going to be moving. Available in 7″ (sizes 2-18) and 10″ (sizes 2-26W) inseams.
Columbia All Seasons Short
Columbia is the G.O.A.T. for performance outdoor apparel not only designed for women, but available in a great range of women's sizes. The All Seasons Short is a 5″ inseam, but the All Seasons Long Short is the same but with the option of a 9″ or 11″ inseam (the Plus only comes in 11″). Stain- and water- repellant, UPF 50, quick drying, and a soft comfortable waistband that will stay put even through the most rigorous hikes. Sizes XS-3X, Standard and Plus fits.
Wayfind High Rise 5″ Short
I almost forgot to include this short until I pulled out my summer clothes and found my red and black pair and they reminded me of how much I wore them last year. Put them on, and yep, they're still awesome. A wide elastic waist that doesn't fold or roll down plus an interior drawstring for custom fit and security. Regular and zipper pockets. And the fabric is super quick drying, non-clingy, and a matte finish that I've been known to wear these with a pretty top and sandals when it just feels too hot for chinos. Sizes XXS-3X.
Your Shorts Questions, Answered
What length shorts look best on women over 40?
There's no single answer, because it depends on your height, size, and comfort level. That said, a 4″-7″ inseam (mid-length) works well for most people. If you prefer more coverage, a 10″-12″ Bermuda length is a classic choice that reads as polished and current. The main thing to avoid is splitting the difference at an awkward 8″-9″ that doesn't quite read as either.
Should women over 40 wear shorts?
Yes, if they want to. There is no age at which shorts become off-limits. Comfort and confidence matter a lot more than what year you were born. If shorts make you feel comfortable and you enjoy wearing them, wear them. If you genuinely don't like shorts and prefer skirts or dresses in warm weather, that's a completely valid choice too.
What shorts are most comfortable for women with larger thighs?
Look for these three things: a subtle A-line or flared cut that gives the thighs room (the Kut from the Kloth Jane and Spanx SuperSmooth Short are both good examples), at least 3-5% stretch in the fabric blend, and a size up from your usual pants. Going up a size is the most consistent fix for thigh-related shorts frustration.
How do I keep shorts from riding up?
The most common cause is shorts that are too tight or too short for your body. Going up a size and adding an inch of inseam solves this for most people. Stretch fabric also helps because it moves with you instead of fighting you. If you're still having problems, try a silhouette with a slightly looser fit through the thigh, like an A-line cut or a relaxed fit.
What are the best shorts for hot weather?
Lightweight fabrics with some structure work best: linen, chambray, TENCEL blends, and performance fabrics like the nylon in the Duluth Trading short. Avoid heavy denim in peak heat. A looser silhouette also helps with airflow. If you run hot, the L.L.Bean Vista Camp Short and Duluth Dry on the Fly are both specifically designed for active use in heat.
Are Bermuda shorts still in style?
Yes. A classic straight-fit Bermuda short in a solid color or clean wash is a perennial style that doesn't go in and out of fashion the way trend-driven pieces do. It's one of those lengths that just looks polished and put-together regardless of what's on the runway.
Did I miss your favorite pair of shorts as a grown-ass woman? If so, please share them in the comments. Your win may be exactly what another woman has been looking for to enjoy summer on her terms!
Did you like what you just read?
Consider tapping here to buy me a coffee in thanks. The best gift you can give a content creator is the gift of sharing. Consider sharing this article on Facebook or Pinterest. Thank you so much for your support!
Wow, what a wonderful post! I truly appreciate your detailed description of the various brands, styles, etc. Now I have to decide which to order….,
What a great post, thank you Alison!
I LIVE in the Athleta linen shorts (as well as their pants). They’re the best for my 40-something, muscular if I’m being nice legs.
Allie, the picture of you in the the Spanx twill shorts: are you wearing 5″ or 7″? You say that 5″ is your go-to but I just want to make sure … I’m a shortie too and the length on you is exactly my aspiration.
They are the 5″ shorts!
I love this post! Shorts are a necessity in the hot and humid DC summer. I’m not sure why some people insist on pretending otherwise. Even stylists who I otherwise admire and who are the top professionals in our area refuse to recommend short options which is so disappointing. I remember one stylist who could only recommend wide leg linen pants for the DC heat. That won’t work when it’s 90+ degrees and humid and I’m at the park pushing a stroller or holding the babies.
Thank you! Thank you! I have actually started wearing shorts during work-from-home, I find it a little overwhelming to shop for shorts. Love your suggestion of sizing up! I prefer a more tailored short, like Bermudas/chinos, but have found that my tummy is accentuated. I will definitely check out your suggestions. OH – and THANK YOU for saying we don’t have to be hot and uncomfortable !
Thank you so much for this!
Wow, what a great post! Shorts are hard, so this is really helpful. I’m so glad you always tell us to go up a size—sometimes, that really is the key to getting a pair that will fit the best/be the most comfortable! A few years ago, I was all about wearing skirts & casual dresses in the summer but now I want to wear shorts again. Great post, Alison.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this well-researched post! Shorts are HARD to shop for. This is a fantastic roundup with so many great options. I learn so much from reading the descriptions and analysis you provide and have ordered quite a few items based on your recommendations. (I try to use the aff links when I can!) You and I have very different body types – so that’s even more “proof” that you really do provide widely applicable, size inclusive reviews and recommendations. Real clothes for real women of all sizes – you provide so much value to so many of us!
Alison, this is your best column yet! As I’ve had a few more spins around the sun, shorts that fit well have been harder and harder to find, at least for me. Thanks for these great ideas — I’ll be checking out some of these styles soon!
Going up a size works well for me. A little extra room in the seat and thighs looks and feels better. It is too hot in the DC area to not wear shorts.
I am 56, 5’2″ and chubby, carrying my weight in the tummy area, but having fairly slender hips and thighs. Shorts are difficult to find that fit my belly but don’t look matronly because of overly full legs. Last summer I did find the a.n.a. poplin shorts at JCPenney that were a fairly good fit. Sizing wasn’t always consistent, and colors seemed to cycle in and out of stock, however the shorts were almost always on sale on the JCP website. These might be a nice alternative for those not wanting to spend a lot of money.
Wow! This will take some time to go through. It’s the encyclopedia of shorts. Perfect. I appreciate the hard work.
I love a lot of Athleta but have entirely given up on buying from them. They seem to never have my size in stock. I started finding it a complete waste of time to go to the site, find things I like, and have zero of them in stock in my size. So, they are off my list. Just too frustrating.
But, there’s a lot here to choose from, so I will dig in. And revisit your fake tanner posts! 😉
Thank you so much for this! I’m always at a loss for where to turn for shorts. I have thick thighs and while I like to wear shorts I find that the inseams creep up, bunching near the crotch, and making the hem uneven. It happens when I buy my “regular” size, and when I size up. Anyone else? It’s got to be either the friction of the materials/my legs, or an ill-fitting hip, but I can’t quite pinpoint it. This is a lifelong affliction and happened even when I was 20 lbs lighter (but then to a lesser degree, I suppose). At this point I’m just walking the dog and yanking my shorts down every ten yards, which is just… annoying.
This absolutely happens to me and I need three things in a pair of shorts to fix it: 1) It has to be cut extra roomy in the hip — for me sizing up won’t achieve that, it’s a proportion thing. 2) A longer inseam, 7-10″. 3) A fabric that has structure, think heavier weight and woven like chinos or denim. (Knit shorts are fine for home but I can’t actually walk in them without constant adjusting.) Those things together really help minimize riding up for me. Good luck!
I think you’re spot on regarding roominess in the hip–thank you!!
I really like the 5″ inseam twill shorts from Old Navy. They do not ride up, hit on a flattering spot on my leg (I’m 5’4″), and have enough room for my thighs. I find them true to size, don’t need to size up.
I picked up a pair of Torrid Mid-Rise Bermuda shorts (cutoff style, distressed) and I love them!The length means I don’t get scratchy legs when I sit on a picnic table or rattan chair. Best of all, they don’t bunch up in the crotch when I walk. Seriously, how do I make that not happen? I have some other shorts that I like to wear, but they bunch up in the crotch and I’m constantly adjusting. And I do not have time for that!