The Best Shorts for Women Over 30
In your 20s, when the weather was too hot to handle, it seemed like no big deal to toss on a pair of denim shorts and call it a day. Nowadays, shorts are suddenly the hardest piece of clothing to wear, let alone find. (Um, when did they get so short?) Fret not, because these 15 pairs below just so happen to be the ideal combination of appropriate length and on-trend style—suitable for vacation or when you’d rather not alarm everyone at the grocery store.
High-Waisted Chambray
The grown-up version of your favorite jorts (yes, we said jorts).
The Fifth Label ($70)
Bright Linen
Although the color is attention-grabbing, the structured fit makes these age-appropriate (and so cute when paired with a striped button-down).
Level 99 ($68)
Everyday Utility
If you’re running after kids, these no-frills shorts will hide any traces of playground dirt.
Caslon ($45)
Cuffed Hem
This sophisticated style works for a casual office or an afternoon lunch date.
Club Monaco ($129)
Frayed Edges
This buttery soft denim will make you forget all about your old pair of cutoffs.
Madewell ($50)
Bermuda Shorts
Unpopular opinion: Bermuda shorts get a bad rap. The key is fit: Tailor these closer to your legs so they don't read sloppy. And pair them with flats—never with heels.
G1 Goods ($125)
Track Shorts
This casual pair is wrinkle-proof and cooling, meaning you’ll want to wear them just as much your actual gym shorts.
Everlane ($68)
Embroidered
The color and pattern will have all eyes on you, but the length will make sure no one’s seeing anything you don’t want them to.
Elevenses ($68)
Two-Tone Chambray
And darker panels have a slimming effect on the hips. (Yes, please.)
Alice + Olivia ($210)