The Best Summer Shorts for Women

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Shorts season is nearly upon us, and while there's no short-age of cutoff options out there, when it comes to choosing styles that will stand up to everything summer can bring, it never hurts to have a little help choosing. Since we've dedicated our lives to trying out the latest and greatest that the fashion world has to offer here at T&C, we've gone ahead and rounded up some of the very best shorts to wear all summer. From the trend-proof chinos you'll wear for years to come to denim favorites and office-ready bermuda shorts, here are all the of the pairs you need to navigate the season ahead.

4" stretch chino short

If you're looking to create a full shorts wardrobe, these standbys from J.Crew have your back. Available in a range of inseams, from these 4" short-shorts to 10" bermudas, and more than a dozen shades, they have the weight of your favorite trousers and a soft, buttery feel with just a hint of stretch that requires no breaking in. They're dressy enough for a date night, but relaxed enough for every day. No wonder they're perennial best seller.

The Somerset Shorts: Linen Edition

A breezy shorts version of Anthropologie's best-selling Somerset dress, these smocked-waist shorts bridge effortless comfort with flattering style. They come in 10 shades and patterns, and the slip-on style makes them perfect for going from the pool to the lounge in no time flat.

Pleated Bermuda shorts

Take a royal cue from Meghan Markle and Princess Diana—bermuda shorts are the perfect option for bringing polish to your shorts wardrobe. With front pleats and tailored construction, these bring the formality of a classic work trouser, with a hint of playful whimsy, yet they're still dressed up enough for even a conservative office.

Trekkie North Mid Rise Short

For summer adventures, these lightweight shorts offer a blend of athleticism and style. Made with 69% recycled nylon, plus spandex for stretch, they'll comfortably move with you on hikes, bikes, and runs, but still have a versatile enough style you can wear them on your recovery days too. Available in sized 0—26, in three shades, they also come with two zippered pockets to keep your essentials safe on the trail.

Dior High-Rise Shorts

White shorts are a summer staple, and these upscale versions are sure to become a wardrobe workhorse. The oversized pockets pay homage to the of-the-moment utility shorts trend, while the tailoring keeps them dressed up. Pair them with your favorite striped tee for a chic shoreside look, or take them for a night on the town with a breezy button down.

Ford Denim High-Rise Cutoff Shorts

For a relaxed summer look, there's little better than a classic pair of cutoffs. These (from Meghan Markle-worn brand Moussy Vintage) balance just the right amount of distressing with a clean, timeless fit for a pair you'll wear for years to come.

Herringbone Stretch Cotton Shorts

Vineyard Vines have made a name for themselves as a preppy staple, and these stretch cotton shorts are no exception. Available in 8 shades and sizes from 00—18, their subtle herringbone texture and supple fabric give them a beautifully lived-in feel that's more low key rich bitch than schlub.

Belonging Floral Linen-Blend Shorts

Want to make an impact without a lot of effort? A pair of shorts in a graphic print, like these blue and white floral ones will add a pop to even the most minimalist of outfits.

Satin Pleated Skort

The ease of a pair of shorts with the dress up factor of a satin mini skirt, this skort (available in four colors and sizes from XXS—XXL) is an ideal option for outdoor events this season.

Clean Denim Pull-On Shorts

Want a slightly dressier take on denim? This flat-front pull-on shorts give a tailored edge that's still laid back and cool.

Double Pleated Shorts

No summer closet is complete without a pair of linen shorts. Made with a stretch linen blend, these pleated shorts (available in white and black) bring a borrowed-from-the-boys Dickie Greenleaf sensibility that will immediately elevate your summer looks.

Track That High-Rise Lined Short 5"

Whether you're hitting the pavement, the sand, or the courts this summer, these light and airy athletic shorts (available in 7 shades) will keep up with you. Stretchy, quick drying, and sweat wicking, they'll keep you cool, and the built-in liner offers extra coverage so you can focus on your workouts, not your wardrobe.

Alissa Embroidered Cotton Shorts

Girlcore is going strong this sunny season, and these embroidered blue and white pull-ons are certain to boost the femme factor an all your looks.

Relaxed-Fit Bermuda Short

Looking for a shorter alternative to your favorite white jeans? These from denim stalwart Lee, available in sizes 4—14, are destined to become a go-to for your warm weather style.

St. Martin Shorts

Madras makes for a summery take on everyone's favorite cold weather check pattern. The punchy pastels (available from XS—XXL) will breathe some fun into your standard rotation, but because the pattern is classic, they're still surprisingly easy to wear.

Crocheted cotton and denim shorts

One way to add visual interest to your look without bumping up the color saturation? Fun textures, this the crocheted embellishments on these white denim short shorts.

Baylor Linen Short

There's little we love more for summer than a nautical stripe. But a nautical stripe plus high rise 100% linen? Perfection. These relaxed fit shorts, available in sizes 0—12, are a surefire seasonal winner.

Stretch Twill Shorts, 6"

Let's be honest, no one wants to look less svelte this summer. Coming from the famed shapewear brand Spanx, these flattering pull-on shorts have 4-way stretch so they move with you comfortably and have just enough compression to smooth you in all the right places. The fabric is also thick enough you never have to worry about show-through, even in their white colorway (they also come in 5 other shades.)

Terry Striped Shorts

For a pair of cover ups with a little extra something, these striped terrycloth shorts will turn you day at the beach look into a social media worthy fashion moment.

Lexi belted floral-print linen shorts

Belts are very much back this year, and this pair of belted shorts are certain to polish up whatever you pair them with. Plus, the pretty floral print motif adds a tropical touch that will make every time you wear them feel like vacation.

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