Petite Friendly Shorts Shopping Guide

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.

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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.

Mid length shorts from Target reviewed by petite style blogger | shorts shopping guide | summer outfits | shorts | petite fashion

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.

Old Navy mid-length denim shorts | mid-length shorts with leg room via pumps and push-ups blog | petite style | petite fashion

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.

mid-length shorts with leg room | petite fashion | white shorts | summer outfits | summer style

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.

low-rise shorts for summer via pumps and push-ups blog | shorts shopping guide | petite style | petite fashion | petite style

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.

midi length shorts via pumps and push-ups blog | mid length shorts with leg room | petite style | petite fashion

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

Brooke of Pumps and Push-Ups - petite style blogger

Hello, I'm Brooke!

A petite (4'10") gal on the hunt for the best petite clothes. I show you where to shop for petite finds, and how to style them in my weekly style sessions. I don't alter or hem any of the clothing on my blog - what you see is exactly how the items fit me right from the store.

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