I put up a poll on Instagram a couple of weeks ago asking what you looked for in a pair of shorts. The responses were all very similar; mid-length, not tight in the thighs, and no ride-up in the back. All of those things are also what I look for in a pair of shorts, so it was great to know so many of you felt the same.
I started looking for shorts a little over a month ago because the hunt normally takes a little time, but this year I was able to find a few good ones right away! So, today I’m sharing my top picks. Some are new this year and some are old favorites of mine that are restocked.
Petite Friendly Mid-Length Shorts
Target
The first couple pairs are from Target. Both have a 4″ inseam and no ride-up in the back, but the fit in the leg is a little bit different. This first pair I’m wearing in a size 0 and I find them to be true to size. They are high-rise and hit me a little bit below my belly button. They’re stretchy with a raw hem and have room in the legs.
Fit: true to size
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Shorts 0 | Tank Top XXS | Shoes Size Up 1/2 Size | Less Expensive Shoe Option | Necklace | Bracelet
The next pair I’m wearing in a size 0, but I think I should have gone for the size 2. They do have a closer fit overall and run small. This pair has a cuffed hem that is sewn so it won’t roll down with wear. They are also high-rise and hit me at the same height, a little below my belly button.
Fit: runs small, size up 1-2 sizes for more leg room
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Shorts 0 (size up ) | Tank Top XXS | Shoes Size Up 1/2 Size | Less Expensive Shoe Option | Necklace | Bracelet
Old Navy
My favorite pair is from Old Navy. They also have a 4″ inseam also, but the denim is a heavier weight. I find them to be true to size and really comfortable with a roomy fit in the leg.
Fit: true to size
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Shorts 0 | Tank Top XXS | Shoes Size Up 1/2 Size | Less Expensive Shoe Option | Necklace | Bracelet
Walmart
I tried a few pairs of white shorts before settling on this pair as being the best. They do run small, I wish I had sized up for a roomier fit, but overall they’re a great fit. They have a shorter 3″ inseam and are a high-rise that hits right under my belly button.
Fit: runs small, size up one
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Shorts 24 Size Up | Tank Top XXS | Shoes Size Up 1/2 Size | Less Expensive Shoe Option | Necklace | Bracelet
American Eagle
The first pair is from American Eagle – it has a lower rise, but is shorter in length. However, the legs are nice and roomy. My favorite part about these shorts is the forgiving elastic in the back. They do run big, I’m wearing them in XXS. They also come in other colors if you’re not into the washed black.
Fit: runs big, size down
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Shorts XXS | Tank Top XXS | Shoes Size Up 1/2 Size | Less Expensive Shoe Option | Necklace | Bracelet
The next pair has been a favorite of mine for a few years, but in order to get a comfortable fit – you’ll have to size up a few sizes. I personally went up two sizes in mine – but they’re the most comfortable pair I own. The fabric is stretchy, and they have a mid-rise, without any ride-up in the back.
Fit: runs small size up at least two sizes
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Shorts 4 | Tank Top XXS | Shoes Size Up 1/2 Size | Less Expensive Shoe Option | Necklace | Bracelet
When it comes to being comfortable in a pair of shorts, sometimes it’s about the underwear you wear with them. If you ask me this pair from Aerie is the absolute best for avoiding ride-up. They stay put and they’re fairly seamless.
I hope this post helps you find a comfortable pair of shorts to love this summer!
-Brooke