When the sun gets hotter, the hem gets shorter. Though that's not a real saying, we can agree that high-waisted shorts are a wardrobe staple to keep in your closet during warm days. If lightweight pants aren't breathable enough for you, shorts will help you survive the summer heat.
The high-waisted style has been a fashion trend for some time now for its versatility, design and overall comfort. They come in a variety of washes, colors and patterns to match the vibe of your wardrobe, plus they just look effortlessly cool. They're also easy to mix and match with tank tops, graphic T-shirts and sandals, but there are endless ways to make them look elegant too.
The Shop TODAY team has rounded up 25 different high-waisted shorts to fit just about any summer style you might be looking for, from distressed to colorful beach patterns. The best part? All of our picks are a major steal in the price department.
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Must-try high-waisted shorts to shop
Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda Shorts
These patterned high-waisted shorts from Gloria Vanderbilt are chic and comfortable. They come in 14 different patterns and colors, including various denim shades for a more classic look. The front and back pockets are a traditional design, but we love how flat they all lay once these shorts are on.
The Perfect Vintage Military Short
These military-style shorts from Madewell give any outfit a polished edge with its A-line silhouette. According to reviewers, the vintage canvas is durable for long-lasting wear and has "the perfect amount of stretch."
A New Day Women's High-Rise Utility Shorts
The breathable fit makes this high-waisted short a major steal. With a near-perfect average, the bottoms combine comfort, style and pockets. Customers agree this one has the perfect length.
"These shorts hit the magic spot of hiding my muffin top without feeling so high-waisted as to almost touch my bra," shared one Target shopper who gave these five stars.
Jen7 Roll-Hem Shorts
Not only are these shorts flattering, but also super chic. Wear them with a pair of sneakers or boots for a more elegant take on the casual style. The shorts are made with cotton for a soft and fitted silhouette.
Women's High-Rise Pleat Front Shorts
Look extra chic at your next pool party with these fun shorts encompassing a thick belted waist. They're loose and tight enough to survive the sweatiest days.
"I wore these all day (90° day) and they are super comfortable and stay in place. They are also so flattering and look great with a bodysuit!" said one Target shopper.
Banana Republic Paperbag Short
Add a pop of sunshine to your wardrobe with these paper bag shorts from Banana Republic. You can easily dress it up or dress it down with shirts, blouses and blazers. This style comes in four different colors and is built from a linen and cotton blend.
Everlane The Tourist Short
This will become your signature bottoms for your next vacation. Made from a blend of linen and cotton fabric, the pair is perfect to wear on long trips. These shorts feature a flattering pleat design that will accentuate your curves.
High-waisted denim shorts
Plaid&Plain Women's High-Waisted Denim Shorts Rolled Blue Jean Shorts
This pair of mom shorts from Amazon is a cheap way to try out the high-waisted trend for yourself. They have a rolled hem and an elastic cinched waistband to show off your figure. The style comes in seven different washes to match anything in your closet.
High-Waisted Slouchy Straight Distressed Non-Stretch Jean Shorts
For those that love a classier style, this dad-inspired high-waisted short is ideal to keep you cool. The relaxed fit comes with ripped details and a Secret-Smooth front for a female fit.
Levi's 501 Original Mid Thigh Women's Shorts
Another classy option with a vintage-inspired fit, these stretchy Levi's shorts offer five pockets and a straight fit for a versatile design. Wear it with your favorite top and a pair of heels for an elevated look.
Abercrombie High Rise 4-Inch Mom Shorts
Don't stress about fitting in! These Abercrombie shorts are made for the edgy woman that loves experimenting. The distressed details add an aged look to the shorts.
"High waisted, perfect distressing, the right amount of booty coverage!" quipped one reviewer.
Olivia Medium Wash Distressed Denim
Step into summer with ease by donning these shorts. The stretchy pair is a fan among customers thanks to the figure-flattering fit.
"The button at the top is a bit tighter than the other buttons so it makes your waist seem more cinched in!" commented one shopper.
Simple Retro Khloe High-Waisted Blue Denim Shorts
Nothing like a classic, simple and clean pair of shorts that can transition well into next season. This retro style has a bit of room on the leg to move around comfortably.
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High-waisted athletic shorts
Zella Live In High Waist Pocket Bike Shorts
Enjoy the outdoors with this bright-colored pair from Zella. The shorts come in five different colors and have double pockets to let you enjoy your workout.
Satina High Waisted Biker Shorts
If you're looking for slimming shorts that won't fall down, this biker short will stay up. With more than 55,000 five-star ratings, this pair from Satina will hold you in comfortably. It combines major stretch and added support to let you worry about your exercise and not the fabric.
"I also do not notice them doing the dreaded slide down effect where you have to keep pulling them up," said one verified Amazon reviewer.
Girlfriend Collective Earth Trail Short
Flex without trouble in this trail short from Girlfriend Collective. The pair is lined with compressive micro running shorts and made with a water-wicking fabric to keep you fresh through every stretch.
TKEES The Core Short
Work out your core with these lightweight shorts from TKEES. The cotton terry fabric makes this pair super soft and comfortable to move around even during the scorching heat.
High-waisted white shorts
Jemima White Paper Bag Waist Shorts
With a front bow tie and an elasticized waistband, these shorts will live up to any summer activity. They can be worn casually or paired with espadrilles for a more classy look.
Venus Linen Shorts
For a chic summer look, step out into the sun wearing linen shorts. Aside from its breathable feature, the shorts also are roomy for an airy silhouette.
Distressed Jean Shorts
If you love denim but don't like the dark wash, this white pair from Venus is perfect for your summer getaway. Enough coverage without being too boring, these shorts have the perfect stretch and edge for the season.
J.Crew High-Rise Denim Short
Another white option to wear every day during summer. With a classic fit and modern details, this J.Crew number is a solid pair for all your summer dates. Best of all, you can get 30 percent off with the code SUMMER.
High-waisted plus-size shorts
D. Jeans Plus Recycle Roll Cuff Bermuda Shorts
This plus-size short from D. Jeans will hug all your curves and cover just enough. The Bermuda style offers a skinny fit and rolled cuffs for a more modern take.
Lane Bryant Signature Fit Denim Bermuda Short
These shorts are perfect for Disney, a cruise trip or a run to the grocery store. For less than $30, you can trade your loose shorts for this not-too-short bottom.
Gap High Rise Pleated Khaki Shorts
If you're into khaki, these shorts are the perfect in-between of modernity and classic. The cotton shorts have a looser fit with a fitted elasticized waist.
Torrid Corset High Rise Shortie Short
If super skinny is what you're looking for, this denim short offer extraordinary stretch and a buttery feel that won't make you sweat the minute you step out into the beaming sun.
For more stories like this, check out:
- Ditch your uncomfortable bra! Experts share tips for finding the right fit
- Summer is almost here! 22 cute plus-size swimsuits from bikinis to swim dresses
- 41 effortlessly chic dresses to wear this summer, according to shoppers
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