One of the best parts of summer is getting the chance to step out of your beloved skinny jeans and finally let your legs breathe. While skirts and dresses have a special place in our heart (and an entire section of our closet), some days we just can’t be bothered to deal with any thigh chafing. Which is why stylish shorts are such a summertime savior. Here are 14 pairs that plus-size ladies can—and should—wear from now until Labor Day. And maybe a few weeks after that too.
The 14 Best Plus-Size Shorts to Get You Through Summer’s Heat in Style
Published May 14, 2021
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Athleta
1. Athleta Brooklyn Short
This sporty pair has a four-inch inseam and pockets on the front and back. Pair with a casual tee and your favorite white sneaks.
Nordstrom
2. Good American Bombshell Cutoff Denim Shorts
Finally, shorts that contour curves without leaving a gap in the waistband.
3. Nydj Bermuda Shorts
We’re particularly big fans of the smooth cotton fabric on these straight-leg Bermudas (but don’t worry, the pockets are big enough to hold your essentials).
Summersalt
4. Summersalt The Effortless Shorts
Sure, you can wear these as a pool-side coverup with one of Summersalt’s adorable swimsuits, but we’re not opposed to sporting them out on the town—with a breezy button-down and flat sandals—for some post-pool drinks as well.
Buy it ($65)
Available in sizes XS to 2X
Madewell
5. Madewell Relaxed Denim Shorts
Loose denim isn't just trendy, it's super comfortable and will keep you cool in the heat. To keep the silhouette flattering, pair these babies with a tighter-fitting tee or a looser top half-tucked in.
Torrid
6. Torrid Mid Rise Midi Short
We all need a pair of go-to shorts and these ones will hug your curves perfectly.
Nordstrom
7. Nike Sportswear Eseential Bike Short
Nobody does cute and sporty like Nike. These bike shorts are flattering on all shapes and can be used for workouts or athleisure.
L.L.Bean
9. L.l.bean Original Sunwashed Shorts
These lightweight shorts have the same versatility as your favorite jeans or cut-offs but with oh so much more breathability and movement.
10. Torrid Self Tie Mid Short
Vertical stripes help make your legs look Ashley Graham-level long—even if you're just wearing Birkenstocks.
11. L.l.bean Wrinkle-free Bayside Shorts
Everyone needs a classic pair of longer-length cotton shorts that cool you off but make you feel covered, so why not pick up a pair that promises you’ll stay wrinkle-free all day long? Even if that day is mostly spent running after small children.
Target
12. Ava & Viv Tie-dye Shorts
Comfy shorts to throw on to run some errands or watch a movie are a necessity. This pastel tie-dye is summery and stylish.
Amazon
13. Allegrace High Waist Denim Shorts
If you prefer a folded hem, these shorts are a great option. They have a longer inseam and are high waisted if you want more coverage.
Pretty Little Thing
14. Khaki Plt Badge Sweat Shorts
The elastic waistband makes this pair ultra comfortable. These fashionable shorts will be your new favorites for the season and they come in two colors. We'd wear ours with a white T-shirt and sneakers, but bring along a matching sweatshirt for when temps drop at night.
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