It’s getting hotter and hotter out, and you’ve been wearing your favorite denim shorts for what feels like weeks on end. Don’t worry—we’ve all been there. But when you dig through your shorts drawer and everything else seems too short, too old, or too out-of-fashion, it’s time to think about upgrading your warm-weather wardrobe.
Intimidating as that sounds, it’s about to get a whole lot easier, because we’ve rounded up a list of 10 stylish pairs of shorts below. On-trend and approved by real women, these dress shorts offer an alternative to your usual hot-day uniform. So go ahead and donate those worn-out, low-rise hip-huggers you’ve been holding onto, because we’re certain there’s a pretty pair of shorts for you in the lineup below.
How We Found The Best Women’s Dress Shorts
When it comes to dress shorts, we won’t settle for wedgies, chafing, or cheeks hanging out (unless it’s intentional). We want flattering, comfortable shorts that we’d feel confident wearing in the light of day and out at night. With standards like that, we have no option but to rely on our algorithm, a tool that uses information like social buzz, user reviews, and editorial mentions to find and rank the best products in a given category. As you may have guessed, today’s category is dress shorts, and we’re happy to report that the 10 styles below meet all of our shorts standards and then some.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Pull-On Shorts. Opening image: aritzia.com
April 4, 2022
Written By:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Loft Fluid Bermuda Shorts
Overall Score
4.05
10
Loft Fluid Bermuda Shorts
3.9
16 User Reviews
2.2
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: High-waisted with a flattering pleated front, these bermuda shorts have a loose fit that’s ideal for days when you want to look put-together while feeling completely comfortable.
STYLE WITH: Wondering what to wear with these shorts? Try tucking in an oversized white button-down and donning some platform derby shoes for a modern take on a timeless, preppy look.
More Colors
Vince Coin Pocket Bermuda Shorts
Overall Score
4.05
09
Vince Coin Pocket Bermuda Shorts
4.71
7 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: If length is a concern to you when it comes to shorts, this bermuda-style pair from Vince might be just what you’re looking for. They have a 13” inseam that’s designed to hit right at the knee, as well as two coin pockets and belt loops.
STYLE WITH: You can dress these shorts up by pairing them with a matching blazer, heels, and statement earrings.
More Colors
White House Black Market High-Rise Matte Jersey Shorts
Overall Score
4.1
08
White House Black Market High-Rise Matte Jersey Shorts
4.9
10 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: The little flare of these high-waisted shorts is perfect for women with curves, and the removable belt is also a welcomed sight because you can cinch it to add shape if you need to. And with an inseam of 4.5”, they’re just out of the short-shorts territory, so the probability of experiencing a wardrobe malfunction is low.
STYLE WITH: These shorts have a lot of outfit potential. For a casual ensemble, try tucking in your go-to graphic tee and sporting a pair of platform sneakers.
Boden Paperbag High Waisted Shorts
Overall Score
4.2
07
Boden Paperbag High Waisted Shorts
4.5
3 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: Paperbag shorts: We know them, and we love them for being one of the most forgiving styles of women’s shorts. This pair from Boden is double pleated with a self-tie belt and pockets.
USER REVIEW: “I'm tall with a high waist and struggle to find shorts that fit. These, however, are perfect. Really comfortable. Flattering shape. I ordered the blue and then ordered both the other colors too.”
More Colors
Wilfred Anthem Short
Overall Score
4.2
06
Wilfred Anthem Short
4.5
48 User Reviews
2.4
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: Dressy shorts for women have come a long way since the plaid bermuda pairs that defined the early aughts. These high-rise, drapey shorts are a modern-day miracle with their subtle pleats, belt loops, and matte finish.
STYLE WITH: We’d love to see these shorts with a vest or sleeveless blazer, and Aritzia has a few options that fit that description.
More Colors
Banana Republic Factory Tie-Waist Short
Overall Score
4.25
05
Banana Republic Factory Tie-Waist Short
4.67
6 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: No one wants to deal with fussy buttons on a hot day, which is why Banana Republic designed these women’s shorts with something that can't be overvalued: an elasticized waist. They also have a drawcord tie, though, so you can adjust the waistline for the perfect fit.
USER REVIEW: “I've been on the hunt for shorts a grown woman would actually wear: comfortable, stylish, high-waisted, with a decent amount of legroom. These ticked all the boxes for me.”
More Colors
Ann Taylor The Metro Short
Overall Score
4.3
04
Ann Taylor The Metro Short
5
2 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: Perhaps the most unique thing about these high-waisted shorts is their 6” inseam. For women’s shorts, this length is practically unheard of, which is tragic because it is the perfect pit-stop between short-shorts and bermudas.
STYLE WITH: Any top on our list of date night blouses would look fantastic with these.
More Colors
J.Crew Tie-Waist Short In Lightweight Chino
Overall Score
4.3
03
J.Crew Tie-Waist Short In Lightweight Chino
5
2 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: Made from a stretchy cotton-elastane blend, Banana Republic’s tie-waist shorts have achieved the impossible: turned an insanely comfortable pair of shorts into something effortlessly chic.
STYLE WITH: You can’t go wrong when deciding what to wear with these shorts, but if you need some guidance, try a short sleeve button-down shirt with a trendy pair of mule sandals.
More Colors
Express Super High Waisted Tailored Pleated Shorts
Overall Score
4.4
02
Express Super High Waisted Tailored Pleated Shorts
5
8 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: Welcome to pastel heaven, where the shorts are pleated to perfection and come in four stunning, soft shades: lilac, mint green, pink, and blue. Tailored so they’re super high-waisted, these shorts are for women who won’t settle for a fit that’s anything other than ridiculously flattering.
STYLE WITH: Because these are so colorful, a simple white tee with some playful block heels would turn some heads. Try adding a headband for a little something extra.
More Colors
Grace Karin Bowknot Tie Waist Summer Casual Shorts
Overall Score
4.5
01
Grace Karin Bowknot Tie Waist Summer Casual Shorts
4.2
425 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
DEFINING DETAILS: A drawstring waist with a bow wrap tie and big pockets? Yes, please. But here’s the really amazing thing(s): These shorts are under $30 and come in over 30 different colors. And there’s more: They also have 3,000 5-star reviews. All this to say, it’s no wonder they made the #1 spot on our list.
USER REVIEW: “Omg shorts that actually fit well for curves??? Yes! Not too short, not too long. Lightweight. Buy these!”
More Colors
The Latest