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The best denim shorts can be hard to find - a bit of style unicorn, if you will. I've already found my perfect pair (they're mid-length, loose fitting, and unfussy), but there's a honestly a cute style for every occasion. Plus, they're just so bloody useful! When it's boiling hot outside and you've got a date with a cocktail, paperbag denim shorts easily replace your faithful skinnies in the "jeans and a cute top" formula. Picnic in the park? Comfy long denim shorts and a crop top will do the trick. Plus, there's colour to play with: white, black, blue, and everything in between.
Are you a ripped denim shorts or a high waisted denim shorts kind of gal? The possibilities are endless, really. And thankfully, there are truly brilliant pairs at every budget. Levi's stocks timeless, tried and true styles for around £50, George at Asda and H&M have steals under £20, and then brands like Frame and AGOLDE offer premium pieces at slightly more splurge-worthy price points.
We say: there's a pair for everyone, and every single summer date in your diary. And now that lockdowns around the UK are lifting, we're ready to make the most of summer style. It's time to see and be seen, baby. Scroll down for some serious shopping inspiration.
Luxury Los Angeles-based label FRAME offers premium fits and washes, and is committed to sustainable and fair manufacturing practices. The easy Le Simone style is made for lazy weekends.
These are a total steal, pure and simple. We like the cuff detail, too. Wear this comfy pair everywhere.
These high rise 'slouchy' mom shorts in washed black will get some serious mileage all summer long. Life hack: black denim = no pesky grass stains from the park picnic, yesss.
Levi's denim shorts are the ultimate summer cutoff. Modelled after the 501® Original Jeans, these were made with the iconic vintage-inspired fit and a flattering high rise.
These fashion editor-approved light wash, high-waisted shorts look far more expensive than the price tag suggests. This is an excellent cut that can be dressed up or down.
H&M's high-waisted bermuda shorts are available in six vibey colourways for summer. Ace with crop tops or an oversized band tee.
This cute pair ties at the waist and has perfectly roomy pockets (hallelujah).
This deliciously faded black denim looks like it was unearthed from a market stall on holiday abroad, not bought on the high street.
River Island Best denim shorts
£32
The paperbag waist and pleat details lend this RI pair a fashion-forward feel. Cute with a crop top for a drinks date.
Available in four colours and sizes 6-22, these great mid-length shorts have added stretch to keep you comfy all day long.
The perfect dark blue denim and mid-thigh length, finished with a rough hem for a casual feel.
Oh, hello there, perfect beach bum cutoff! AGOLDE's premium, lived-in denim is always a good style investment.
In sizes 8 to 22, these black bermudas are appropriate for more casual office dress codes in the summer. Just add heeled mules and a blazer.
These Zara ones come pre-distressed and ripped, in sizes 4-18. Mid rise zip fly.
£44.99
Superdry's vintage-feel mid-rise shorts offer a little extra bum coverage, for days when you definitely want to stay wedgie-free.
£201
MOTHER is another luxe label who reallly knows good denim. These look perfectly faded, frayed, and lived in. Sign us up.
Vero Moda's 100% cotton longline shorts come with a distressed hem for beach vibes. Holiday, here we come.
This crisp, smart pair from Arket is available in three colours, and will neaten up even your most casual outfits. Jumper around shoulders, optional.
£55
Aren't these just the ultimate denim cutoff? Where's the peach emoji?
Tuck your top in to show off the paperbag waistline, or style with a crop top as per the model. Sometimes it's all in the cute extra details.
Maddy Alford is the Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK, covering fashion content online and in print. Maddy specialises in shopping galleries and first-person reviews of the best fashion buys, from jeans and jewellery to wedding dresses, gymwear, and winter coats. She also writes op-eds on on pop culture, viral fashion moments, travel journalism, fitness, and the LGBTQ+ community's relationship with style. Maddy is also a fashion stylist who has worked on over 100 photoshoots at Hearst, including those starring Raye, Niall Horan, and Lena Dunham. Previously, she has worked in fashion PR and e-commerce, including stints at ELLE US and UK, Net-a-Porter, InStyle, and Time Out New York. Maddy has ten years of experience in the fashion industry in both London and New York City, after graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. She is passionate about second-hand shopping, inclusive fashion, running on Regent's Canal, and finding London's cosiest pubs.
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