The 18 Best Non-Denim Shorts of 2023 for Easy Breezy Summer Styling
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From relaxed linen styles to tailored silhouettes, these are the non-denim shorts you’ll want to live in this summer and beyond.
InStyle / Reese Herrington
Blending the breeziness of a skirt with the comfort and support of pants, shorts are the answer to your warm weather styling needs. What’s more, they come in a pleasingly diverse range of styles, lengths, and colors. Of course, this makes finding your perfect pair a bit trickier, which is why we put in the work to find the most functional and fashionable non-denim shorts.
We researched the trendiest options, interviewed fashion experts, and tried dozens of pairs ourselves — so you’re in safe hands. Whether you’re looking for dreamy linen shorts that will keep you comfortable through the hottest summer days, a sophisticated tailored option for summer workwear or a flirty style for a night out on the town (hello, leather), you’ll surely find something on our list that suits your fancy.
Related: The 12 Best Denim Shorts of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Overall: J. Crew New Seaside Short in Linen Blend
What We Love: These shorts are extremely durable — we’ve owned our pair for over four years and they still look fresh. What We Don’t Love: The fabric wrinkles slightly.
Comfortable and reliable, these linen J.Crew shorts are consistently in our heavy rotation as soon as the weather starts to warm up. In fact, we’ve been sporting the same pair for almost five years, and though the green hue has slightly faded, this high quality option has maintained its structure without any rips or tears.
Durability aside, these shorts also have impressive versatility. “I wear these when I’m strolling through the city, casually hanging with friends, and even at the beach,” says Mary Honkus, commerce editor at InStyle. “Thanks to the soft linen material, they look fancier than your average sports shorts, but with the adjustable drawstring, they’re still relaxed enough to be worn for action-packed games, like soccer.”
Along with the laid back style, we also love that these shorts come in 14 colors and patterns, including a soft blue hue and playful nautical stripes, so there’s an option that can suit anyone’s tastes.
Keep in mind that due to the nature of linen, these can get a bit wrinkly. Giving them a quick steam releases the crinkles quickly, but we don’t mind the lived-in look.
Price at time of publish: $40 (originally $61)
Size: 3XS–3XL | Material: Linen, lyocell | Colors: 14
Best Budget: Pull & Bear Elasticized Waist Linen Look Shorts
What We Love: These can easily be dressed up or down, depending on your shoes and accessories. What We Don’t Love: They can shrink if you put them in the dryer.
If you like the effortless look of linen but don’t quite have the budget to splurge on the luxe fabric, these shorts from Pull & Bear are the next best thing. Made of a breezy viscose and polyester blend, this pair feels just as soft as the natural fiber with a major bonus: It won’t crease as much as real linen. This impossibly smooth fabric gives the shorts an elevated appeal, while the elasticized waistband makes them just as comfortable (if not more) as your average sweatshorts.
Even better, as long as you leave them to air dry post-wash (throwing them in the dryer can cause shrinkage), they will maintain their shape and take you through the entire summer, from happy hours to outdoor movies and more.
Price at time of publish: $24
Size: XS–XL | Material: Viscose, polyester | Colors: 1
Best Splurge: Cult Gaia Lucia Shorts
What We Love: The removable gold chain link belt acts as a built-in accessory. What We Don’t Love: We wish the shorts were offered in more color options.
In true Cult Gaia fashion, these tailored shorts blend style and function, culminating in a wearable work of art. These mid-weight cotton shorts are beautifully designed with a hidden side zipper and a high-rise, yet loose fit, with pleats to create the illusion of sky-high legs. But the true pièce de résistance is the removable gold chain link belt weaving between the gleaming grommets, making the shorts feel utterly glamorous. We’d wear them on a daytime date or out to dinner at a buzzy restaurant with friends, and paired with minimalist designs — think a pair of strappy heels and a flowing top — to let the shorts really shine.
There’s not much we don’t love about the shorts, but we do wish there were more colorways available. Currently, off-white is the only option, but hopefully Cult Gaia will add more hues to the lineup.
Price at time of publish: $398
Size: XS–XL | Material: Cotton, lycra spandex | Colors: 1
Best Plus-Size: Madewell The Plus Neale Short
What We Love: With a partially elasticized waist, these shorts expand and move with your body, despite the tailored appearance. What We Don’t Love: They’re only available in a light peach color.
Elasticized waistbands have come a long way. What used to be a common feature only seen in athleticwear, this waistband style has now become a coveted feature across all types of clothing, including these shorts from Madewell. One of the reasons for its increasing popularity is that it’s a hidden detail: From the front, you don’t even realize the waistband is stretchy, so you can be totally comfortable without sacrificing a bit of style. Along with a button, zip-fly, and pleated legs, they just look like a traditional pair of tailored shorts. But because of the partial elastic band in the back, the comfort level is more akin to pajamas than constricting waistbands. If the inseam was slightly longer (it’s 3.5-inches), we’d consider wearing these refined shorts to the office, especially since Madewell created a matching blazer.
Price at time of publish: $50 (originally $75)
Size: 14W–28W | Material: Viscose, lyocell, linen | Colors: 1
Related: Bye Bye Chafing, Hello The 11 Best Shorts Dedicated to Plus-Sizes
Best Petite: Gap Eyelet Pull-On Shorts
What We Love: The eyelet detailing upgrades the otherwise casual pull-on style. What We Don’t Love: The white hue is slightly see through.
While more and more stores are catering to petite folks in the pants department, few create options for their petite shorts counterparts. That’s where Gap comes to the rescue: The inclusive brand creates many of their styles with shorter people (specifically those under five-foot-four) in mind, meaning that anyone who has become accustomed to drowning in a pair of too-big shorts will be a thing of the past.
This pair stands out because of the easygoing pull-on silhouette and all-over eyelet, which work together to elevate the overall vibe. There are three classic colors to choose from — navy, black, and white — and they’ll go with nearly everything in your closet. But word to the wise: Be sure to wear appropriate, skin-colored undergarments with the white pair as it’s slightly see-through. If you’re unsure what to pair with the shorts, Gap has a variety of warm-weather tops (including a breezy button down and flirty wrap top) with the same eyelet design, so you can easily create a matching set.
Price at time of publish: $60
Size: XS–L | Material: Cotton | Colors: 3
Best Tall: Everlane The Easy Short
What We Love: Constructed with a five-inch inseam, these won’t look like hot pants on those with longer legs. What We Don’t Love: They’re a very casual style, meaning they’re best worn for low-key daytime activities.
If you’re tall, you’re likely well-versed in the struggle that is shopping for shorts. But this summer, you can finally breathe a sigh of relief with the Easy Short from Everlane. With a five-inch inseam, you can rest assured that they won’t creep up your legs throughout the day or accidentally look like booty shorts.
Beyond the length, these shorts are simply easy (like the name suggests). The cotton twill combined with the baggy silhouette feels airy on sticky summer days. We find ourselves slipping into this pull-on style for almost every leisurely summer activity, whether we’re lounging with friends, bopping around the neighborhood, or heading to the beach.
Price at time of publish: $58
Size: XXS–XL | Material: Cotton, elastane | Colors: 7
Best Biker: Tamara Malas Petunia Biker Short
What We Love: Independent designer Tamara Malas partnered with Greenspark to plant a tree for every order. What We Don’t Love: If you don’t like vibrant patterns, these shorts aren’t for you.
One of plus-size stylist Jamie Hamilton’s recommended brands, Tamara Malas is an independent designer who started her namesake label out of a desire to make fashion for everyone. Inclusivity is at the heart of the brand, and that shows through in the extensive size range of these stretchy biker shorts. Along with the broad sizes (which go up to 34/36), we love the six joy-inducing patterns. If you’re looking for a more subdued pair of shorts you won’t find that here — even the black hue features a spunky striped pattern down the side. On the upside, Malas also makes cropped tees in the same designs, so you can purchase a matching set.
Price at time of publish: $68
Size: 2/4–34/36 | Material: Cotton, spandex | Colors: 6
Related: The 9 Best Bike Shorts of 2023 To Go From SoulCycle to Brunch
Best Embellished: Micas Sequin Embellishment Shorts
What We Love: Thanks to the well-crafted structure and soft lining, the sequins won’t rub against skin or cause irritation. What We Don’t Love: If the shorts aren’t properly stored, the sequins can fall off.
These sparkling shorts get the party started! Featuring a flattering high-rise waist and trendy exposed zipper, they’re adorned with scores of dazzling paillettes that twinkle in the light. Although the shorts are completely covered in sequins, the lightweight polyester and cotton lining feels soft against skin and prevents a scratchy feeling or irritation, so you can dance the night away.
However, given the nature of sequins, it’s inevitable that some will fall off with wear (a life well lived, we say), but proper storage can keep the shorts in tip-top shape. We recommend placing them in a dust bag to prevent friction.
Price at time of publish: $35
Size: XS–L | Material: Polyester, cotton | Colors: 2
Best Hot Pants: Hollister Low-Rise Twill Chino Shorts
What We Love: They’re unquestionably super short, but the three-inch inseam is long enough that these aren’t total booty shorts. What We Don’t Love: Considering the short inseam, some people may not be a fan of the low, hip-skimming rise.
When we think of hot pants, denim and athletic shorts typically come to mind. Never before had we seen a pair of chino hot pants and this one certainly caught our eye with its contrasting style. These itty bitty shorts from Hollister were made to show off curves. Constructed with cotton and a touch of elastane, the low-rise chino style fits snuggly along the hips and accentuates your backside (while still leaving enough to the imagination). The three-inch inseam is long enough to avoid looking like straight up booty shorts for a hint of modesty. Instead, they sit comfortably at the top of the thighs.
Price at time of publish: $20 (originally $35)
Size: 000–20 | Material: Cotton, elastane | Colors: 4
Best Cargo: Halara High Waisted Casual Cargo Shorts
What We Love: The large pockets can securely hold a phone, credit cards, lip gloss, and more while out and about. What We Don’t Love: Despite having an elastic waistband, these run a bit small.
It was only a matter of time before cargo pants rose to the spotlight again (fashion is cyclical after all). Luckily, the 90s trend has evolved beyond pants, and now we’re finding fashionable cargo shorts that we can wear all summer long, like this pair from Halara. The main attraction of these cargo shorts are the pockets, but not for simply holding keys or your phone. With their strategic placement, the pockets are actually a defining style feature.
Okay, we’ll admit that these shorts have a lot more going for them than just the pockets. The nylon fabric is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, so they’ll wear just as easily on a hike as they do on a city sidewalk. The longer four-inch inseam gives fuller figures more of a buffer from unbearable thigh rubbing, too. And even through outdoor activities, like hiking, the shorts don’t slide or droop, thanks to the elasticized waist (although because of the high-rise cut they can be a bit tight, so we suggest sizing up).
Price at time of publish: $40
Size: XS–XL | Material: Nylon | Colors: 2
Best Linen: Reformation Mila Linen Short
What We Love: They offer all the comfort of gym shorts, but with the look of refinement. What We Don’t Love: With a three-inch inseam, the shorts can look very short on those with longer legs.
When the temperature reaches above 70, you can find us sporting linen — particularly these airy shorts from Reformation. InStyle writer Irene Richardson says she wears this pair at least once a week in the summer. “Unlike many loose, baggy linen shorts, these ones have a more structured fit that helps streamline my outfits,” she says. “I can pull them on with any shirt or sweater, and suddenly my entire look feels tied together.”
Comfort-wise, the shorts feel like your favorite pair of leggings, but the ruched elastic waistband and timeless appeal of linen kicks the style factor up a few notches. As for the length, the three-inch inseam makes seat coverage a little iffy for those with longer legs. However, Richardson insists that they look classy while standing or walking around, and that’s good enough for us.
Price at time of publish: $88
Size: XS–XL | Material: Linen | Colors: 7
Best Chino: Loft Monroe Chino Shorts
What We Love: The structured fit gives the shorts more of a formal look, yet the cotton stretch fabric ensures they’re still incredibly comfortable. What We Don’t Love: They run large so it’s best to size down.
For a pair of shorts that can be dressed up or down, InStyle’s senior commerce editor Shannon Bauer relies on these chinos from Loft. “They’re the happy medium of ‘nice’ shorts that are still comfortable and can be worn casually,” she says. “I usually bring a pair on my travels (especially to European countries where the dress code is a little more formal than America) because there's stretch in the fabric, making them ideal for long days on trains or walking around.”
The structure of the shorts are equal parts elevated and relaxed: The higher rise sits right along the natural waistline, while the roomy silhouette with a four-inch inseam strikes a solid middle ground between baggy and form-fitting. One downside to the flexible fabric is that it tends to stretch over time, but if you size down from your regular go-to, you’ll be in good shape.
Price at time of publish: $38 (originally $55)
Size: 00–18 | Material: Cotton, spandex | Colors: 4
Best Bermuda: Banana Republic Palma Linen Bermuda Shorts
What We Love: With the extra long inseam and dressy linen material, these shorts are suitable for the office. What We Don’t Love: Like most Bermuda styles, the length can be overwhelming for smaller frames.
If you’re convinced that office-appropriate shorts don’t exist, let us introduce you to this pair of linen Bermuda shorts from Banana Republic. On days when it’s simply too hot to wear work slacks (or when we’re not in the mood for a dress), this unique combination of wide, pleated legs, along with a tailored high-rise waist and exaggerated belt loops, help us look put together without trying too hard.
Along with the formal design features, the breezy, 100 percent linen fabric helps keep us cool during hot, humid days. Additionally, the 8.5-inch inseam virtually guarantees that no wardrobe malfunctions will occur (a must for work attire).
With the wide silhouette and longer length, anyone with a slimmer frame may find they're swimming in fabric, but Banana Republic creates a petite version with a more proportionate eight-inch inseam.
Price at time of publish: $100
Size: 0–20 | Material: Linen | Colors: 4
Best Tailored: Express Editor Super High Waisted Tailored Shorts
What We Love: The fabric is thick, lightweight, and totally opaque — even the lighter colors, so you won’t have to stress about any surprise sheerness. What We Don’t Love: The super high-rise fit is extremely flattering, but doesn’t leave much wiggle room (it’s best to size up).
An expertly tailored pair of shorts is the cornerstone of any wardrobe. Another pick from Honkus is this pair she bought these back in 2018, and they remain one of her warm weather closet staples. “I originally bought them to wear in the office on muggy New York days, but I’ve gotten so much use out of them — I don these at least once a week for date nights or casual evenings out with friends,” she says. “And after five years they still look practically good as new.”
Versatility aside, the shorts were built with exceptional figure-enhancing craftsmanship. A hidden hook and button closure ensure a firm fit around the midsection, which may sound uncomfortable, but Honkus assures that the curvy silhouette it creates is well worth it. “The ultra high-rise snatches my waist and elongates my short torso, but it can be a little tight,” she says.
However, the body of the legs has a hint of stretch, thanks to the thick polyester-spandex blend. Surprisingly, we don’t mind the thicker fabric for summer considering it’s completely opaque — even in the white and light pink hues.
Price at time of publish: $68
Size: 0–16 | Material: Polyester, spandex | Colors: 3
Best Dressy: Veronica Beard Veila Shorts
What We Love: Veronica Beard makes a matching hot pink blazer for a sexy summery power suit. What We Don’t Love: The shorts are dry clean only.
There’s no denying that Barbiecore is here to stay, and we’ll be hopping on the trend with these delightfully bold shorts from Veronica Beard. Of course, the color is what initially caught our eyes, but it’s the expert construction and special details that really transforms the shorts into a masterpiece. Crafted from a linen blend, the shorts feel soft, but look seriously refined as a result of the tailored silhouette, wide waistband, front pleating, and deep side pockets.
And if you look closely, the shorts shine. Your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you — a subtle metallic thread is woven throughout for an extra twinkle. This characteristic (along with the vibrant pink hue) make these a statement piece on their own, but we love that Veronica Beard also made a coordinating linen blazer.
As with many luxury clothing items, the shorts require proper care to maintain their shape and color. That said, these are dry clean only — throwing them in the wash can reduce their lifespan.
Price at time of publish: $298
Size: 00–12 | Material: Linen, rayon, polyester, spandex | Colors: 1
Best Leather: Alice + Olivia Cady High-Waisted Leather Short
What We Love: Along with black, these are also offered in white, which is uncommon, but delightful, for leather shorts. What We Don’t Love: Because the shorts are made from real leather, they need to be professionally cleaned.
Crafted from 100 percent lamb leather, these shorts from Alice + Olivia draw inspiration from London’s punk scene while being professional enough for the office. “Flared shorts are breezy and create a more skirted appearance,” says plus-size model Kara Johnson. “They also give the illusion of a smaller waist when they are high rise.”
Most leather shorts are only offered in black or brown, but we love how this one comes in white — a welcome change that makes them more summery. Like many leather goods, these will also conform to your body with wear, and they will last for years as long as they’re properly cared for. On that note, you won’t be able to simply toss them in the wash: To keep them in prime condition, they require professional leather cleaning every few months.
Although these are a bit pricier than our best splurge pick, leather definitely is an acquired taste, and those looking for premium-quality leather goods can expect higher price tags for items that will stand the test of time.
Price at time of publish: $595
Size: 0–14 | Material: Lamb leather | Colors: 2
Best Crochet: Farm Rio Multi Circles Crochet Shorts
What We Love: Simply looking at these bright multi-colored shorts gives us a much-needed dopamine rush. What We Don’t Love: Because of the delicate crochet design, these need to be hand washed.
Whoever says fashion isn’t a mood-booster definitely has never set eyes on these shorts. We can’t help but feel a bit happier just by looking at this vibrant pair, and we bet you can’t either. The trendy shorts are crocheted by hand and feature bright bursts of florals topped with a thick, wide multi-striped drawstring waistband in a rainbow of colors. It feels beachy and made for fun, and the fully-lined interior promises full-coverage.
While the legs aren’t the most stretchy, the waistband features a tasseled drawstring that is just as stylish as it is functional, and it allows you to adjust the fit so it lays perfectly along your midsection. As with most handcrafted pieces, the delicate design requires special care. To prevent unraveling or major damage, follow the care instructions exactly.
Price at time of publish: $135
Size: XS–XL | Material: Cotton | Colors: 1
Best High-Waisted: Zara Pleated High Waist Shorts
What We Love: Along with basic black and white, these are also offered in a gorgeous royal blue hue. What We Don’t Love: The shorts run slightly large.
“Comfort is king when it comes to shorts,” says Sophie Adams, contemporary and beachwear buyer at Harvey Nichols. “I always look for relaxed, flattering fits in soft fabrics that can work for a number of different occasions, from beach vacations to city breaks.” In short, or rather shorts, this pleated pair from Zara fits the bill.
Despite their more tailored appearance, the high-rise silhouette and supremely soft polyester blend make these one of the most comfortable shorts on our list. The button and zipper front ensure a neat fit along the waistline (no pinching here!), and the wider legs provide more than enough breathing room so you can strut all over town without getting overheated.
Like many Zara items, these shorts come in timeless white and black colorways, but we’re partial to the statement-making royal blue that we’ll be pairing with a white tank and leather sandals for a cool and collected al-fresco dinner look.
Price at time of publish: $50
Size: XS–XL | Material: Polyester, viscose, elastane | Colors: 3
What to Keep in Mind
Length
Shorts come in all sorts of shapes, styles and lengths. On one end of the spectrum are hot pants, which are defined as anything with a three-inch inseam or shorter, and knee-skimming Bermudas are on the other. The length you select ultimately comes down to personal preference, but most standard shorts fall somewhere in the middle, usually with a four-inch inseam that lands mid-thigh.
That average inseam length may be a tad short for those who are five-foot-eight or taller (nothing is worse than accidentally ending up with a pair of booty shorts when you thought you purchased something more conservative). From experience, we’ve found that shorts with five-inch inseams, like Everlane The Easy Short, are the perfect length, hitting anyone of taller stature right along the mid-thigh.
Material
Fabric affects so much more than how the shorts feel against your skin. Think about it, not all materials are stretchy, breathable, or wrinkle-resistant. And not to mention, some require more care than others.
For balmy summer days, all of our experts recommend options designed with natural materials, like linen or cotton, because they’re breathable, lightweight, and extremely versatile. Take the Banana Republic Palma Linen Bermuda Shorts, for example. These shorts can be dressed up or down, and we even find their length appropriate for the office.
While cotton and linen have some stretch to them, options made with spandex (like Loft Monroe Chino Shorts) are flexible and meant to move with your body for the most comfortable fit. And while leather may not be your first pick when it comes to summer shorts, the material is much dressier than other options, extremely durable, and can instantly elevate an outfit, which is why we included Alice + Olivia Cady High Waisted Leather Short on our list.
Aside from leather, most fabrics (including linen and cotton) can typically be washed on a regular cycle. Of course, there are some exceptions, like the Veronica Beard Veila Shorts, which need to be dry cleaned. The delicate Farm Rio Multi Circles Crochet Shorts and Micas Sequin Embellishment Shorts also need some extra TLC with hand washing. Be sure to check the care instructions of your garment.
Activity
It’s important to consider how you intend to wear your next pair of non-denim shorts. Are you looking for an easy pair of shorts that you can easily wear for a variety of warm weather activities? Or do you want something polished and work-appropriate? This is a question you’ll need to answer in order to find a style that’s right for you.
For something you can slip on at a moment's notice for beach days, chill hangouts, or summer barbecues, we recommend a flexible pair like J.Crew New Seaside Short Linen Blend. The airy linen fabric with a customizable drawstring fit gives them a relaxed vibe that may just become your go-to.
On the flip side, if you’re looking for something a bit dressier, opt for a tailored silhouette with a longer inseam. These design details offer a refined style, and some, like Express Editor Super High Waisted Tailored Shorts, are even suitable for the office.
Your Questions, Answered
How do you style non-denim shorts?
There are countless ways to style your non-denim shorts, and practically every shape can be dressed up or down. “Wide-tailored shorts and more relaxed shapes look great teamed with strappy sandals or an open-toe leather flat as it flatters and elongates the leg,” says stylist Kasha Malyckyj. “Adding a tailored blazer instantly transforms any shorts outfit making it look more refined whether you’re wearing heels or sneakers,” she adds.
When it comes to Bermuda shorts and anything high-waisted, Malyckyj suggests teaming them with a strapless tube top or tucking in a slim-fitting shirt. Regardless of the shorts you select, our experts agree that you can never go wrong with a basic t-shirt and simple white sneakers. The options are endless.
How do you wash non-denim shorts?
How you wash your shorts depends on the material, as not all fabrics can be cared for in the same way. For example, while linen shorts can easily be put in the wash, leather would be ruined if treated the same way. The best thing to do is to follow the care instructions on your garment to ensure it stays in pristine condition. When in doubt, hand washing is the most gentle way to efficiently clean your shorts to prevent needless wear and tear.
Can shorts be dressy?
Yes! There are plenty of shorts that are dressy, including the Veronica Beard Veila Shorts on our list. When searching for dressy shorts, the fabric doesn’t matter quite as much as the silhouette and length. We recommend looking for tailored designs constructed with belt loops, pleats, or exaggerated pockets. These are similar features to what you'd find in dress pants, albeit just in a short form. Length-wise, stick with a four-inch inseam or longer — you don’t want them to appear too short at formal occasions, and this length typically lands around mid-thigh.
Why Shop With Us
Mischa Smith is a freelance Commerce Writer for InStyle, where she covers fashion, drawing on her experience as a womenswear editor at luxury retailer Harvey Nichols. Along with help from Lauren Harano and Mary Honkus, she compiled the best non-denim shorts of the season. Along the way, she interviewed experts for some of their top picks, including Sophie Adams, a contemporary and beachwear buyer at Harvey Nichols; Kasha Malyckyj, a stylist and writer, who has worked at prestigious retailers, including Selfridges and Net-a-Porter; Kara “Juicy” Johnson a plus-size model and body diversity advocate; and Jamie Hamilton a plus-size stylist and content creator.
Related: The 15 Best Workout Shorts to Show Off Your Strong Legs
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