The Best Denim Shorts for Women Over 40: Size-Inclusive Picks for Most Every Body
TL;DR
The Quick Version
Shopping for denim shorts in midlife shouldn't be a scavenger hunt. This guide breaks down the best picks by body type (petite, tall, curvy, plus size) so you can find solid options without scrolling through a thousand mediocre pairs. All picks come in a range of sizes. If you want even more shorts options beyond denim, check out the best shorts for grown-ass women.
Why Denim Shorts Deserve a Second Look in Midlife
Those of us who came of age in the '80s and '90s have a complicated relationship with denim shorts. They were pleated, acid washed, completely distressed, dark and cuffed, turned into skorts, like a second skin, and so baggy they barely stayed up on our hip bones. Then suddenly denim shorts seemed frumpy, and then the trends changed and it was hard to know if they were “age appropriate” anymore. I have several friends IRL who just wrote off denim shorts all together.
My friends, denim shorts can be great for all ages, all shapes, all sizes, and if you want to wear them (or wear them again), this article is for you.
Denim shorts are back, and IMO they are here to stay. And in 2026, denim shorts are really good. Higher tech fabrics, shapes for a range of bodies, and so many different washes, finishes, silhouettes, and lengths that you can find a pair that works for you.
A few things worth knowing before you shop:
- Inseam length matters more than you think. A 3″ inseam and a 7″ inseam are completely different garments. Most grown women find anything in the 5″ to 7″ range hits a sweet spot of coverage without veering into bermuda territory, but this is entirely personal. Try a length you haven't tried before; you might surprise yourself.
- Rise is your friend. A mid to high rise keeps everything in place when you sit, squat, and move through your actual day. Low rise denim shorts have their place, but if you want comfort and coverage, go higher.
- Stretch makes a difference. Even a small percentage of elastane (1-2%) changes how denim feels and moves on your body over a full day. If you've written off denim shorts as uncomfortable, try a pair with stretch before you give up entirely.
Below I've organized picks by body type so you can get straight to what's relevant to you. Each section has two options to give you a starting point without overwhelming you. For a broader look at all the shorts styles worth knowing about this season, check out the best shorts for grown-ass women.
Best Denim Shorts for Petite Women
Short inseams are everywhere, but petite women need the rise and torso proportions to match, not just a truncated leg. These picks are designed with a shorter frame in mind.
- Pick 1: Lands' End Petite Soft Denim Mid Rise Jean Shorts | Sizes 2P-18P (plus Misses and Plus | When petite, it's hard to find mid-length shorts that don't overwhelm. These are a great fit, great quality, and comfortable too.
- Pick 2: Ann Taylor Petite Bermuda Short | Sizes 00P-16P (and misses) | $94.50 | A true Bermuda short designed specifically for the petite woman, these are crisp and classic enough to be a summer staple for years to come.
- Pick 3: Talbots Patch Pocket Denim Short | Sizes 0P-16P & 14WP-22WP | $79.50-$89.50 | Not only available in a specifically petite cut, but also in plus size petite, these shorts have a not-too-short but modern cut and fun patch front pockets that are very on trend this summer.
Best Denim Shorts for Tall Women
A longer inseam alone doesn't solve it for tall women; the rise needs to be proportional too. These picks are either designed for tall frames or run long enough in the rise as well as the inseam to work.
- Pick 1: American Tall Stretch Denim Shorts | Sizes 25-36 | $65 | Specifically creating clothing for tall women, these shorts are made from 80% cotton, 18% polyester, and 2% spandex to offer give and bounceback while looking like classic denim.
- Pick 2: Gap Mid Rise Longline Denim Shorts | Sizes 27-33 (and petite/misses options) | $69.95 | Tall fits and an 11″ inseam? These are true Bermudas even for the longer-legged grown women.
Best Denim Shorts for Curvy Women
Curvy fit is for those who have a significant difference (10″ or more) between their waist and hip measurements. If you find that denim shorts gape too much at the waist to fit your hips, this fit is for you. Curvy denim shorts have improved dramatically in the last few years. Look for brands calling out a curvy fit specifically; the pattern is cut differently and it shows.
- Pick 1: Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Dad Short | Sizes 23-37 | $70 | Don't judge a book by its cover, or a brand by the age of its models. Abercrombie makes stellar jeans and shorts for all ages, and these shorts with a 12″ rise and 5″ inseam work with, not against your curves, have the length to prevent chafing while looking modern.
- Pick 2: Madewell Curvy Perfect Vintage Mid-Length Jean Short | Sizes 23-33 | $78 | Also recommended in my guide to the best overall shorts for women in midlife, these shorts are designed for curves and have all the cool washes and finishes without being too short for comfort.
- Pick 3: Wrangler Cowboy Short | Sizes 24-33 | $59.99-$64.99 | Wrangler jeans are back in fashion, and the women's line is designed for curves. Heck, their spokesperson is Lainey Wilson and she is known for her curvy shape. The Cowboy short comes in four inseams from teeny tiny 2.5″ to a mid- to lower-thigh 7″ length.
Best Denim Shorts for Midsize Women in Midlife
For my fellow double-digit but not plus size friends, this category is for you. Hovering on the cusp between misses and plus, it can be especially hard to find denim shorts. These picks are ones I and my fellow midsize friends swear by:
- Pick 1: AGOLDE “Parker” Long Short | Sizes 22-34 | $158 | If there is one pair of denim cutoffs recommended more than any others for grown women, it's these. A little longer than most cutoffs, a little more refined, but still utterly cool looking with a great fit. IMO, worth the price.
- Pick 2: Levi's Premium 501 Mid-Thigh Short | Sizes 23-34 | $75 | Choose stretch or rigid/no stretch, these shorts get stellar reviews for great fit, a 6″ inseam that isn't too long but long enough to not ride up, and looking more expensive than shorts twice their price.
Best Plus Size Denim Shorts
With over 67% of American women wearing a size 14 or larger, the plus size denim shorts market is finally catching up. These picks go up to a size 28 or higher and don't sacrifice style to get there.
- Pick 1: Universal Standard Lou Loose Fit Denim Shorts | Sizes 00-40 | $118 | How often do you find plus size denim shorts that get all five-star reviews? If you're looking for a longer short that doesn't suffocate your thighs, check these out.
- Pick 2: Old Navy High-Waisted 9″ Wow Jean Shorts | Sizes 000-30 | $32.99 | I wasn't sure where to place these shorts as they're great for a range of sizes. However, these get stellar reviews from those who wear them in plus sizes for having a modern not-too-tight leg and a cool but comfortable length perfect for long days and lots of walking.
- Pick 3: Good American Good Everyday Shorts | Sizes 00-32 | $118 | If you are both petite and plus size, shorts can be a dreaded item to shop for. These are a 4.5″ inseam and made from comfort stretch denim for shorts that work with, not against your shape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denim Shorts for Women Over 40
What length denim shorts are best for women over 40?
There's no single right answer, but most women in midlife find a 5″ to 7″ inseam gives the best balance of coverage and proportion. It's long enough to feel comfortable sitting and moving, but short enough to read as shorts rather than capris. That said, wear whatever length you actually like. Longer bermuda-length shorts are also having a major style moment right now.
Are denim shorts appropriate for Gen X women?
Heck yes! We Gen X women grew up in denim shorts and there's no age at which you have to give them up. The difference now is that the cuts and styles available are so much better than what we had in the 80s and 90s. High rises, cleaner washes, better fabrics, and longer inseams mean you can find a pair that fits your actual body and life.
What rise should I look for in denim shorts?
Mid rise (roughly 9″–10″) or high rise (10″+) are your best bets for comfort and coverage. High rise in particular helps with fit through the waist and keeps the shorts in place throughout the day.
How do I find denim shorts that don't gap at the waist?
Look for brands with curvy fit or contoured waistband options. A small amount of stretch (1-2% elastane) also helps the waistband conform to your shape. If you consistently deal with waist gap, a simple elastic hack with a needle, thread, and two safety pins can fix most pairs.
Where can I find plus size denim shorts in extended sizes?
Good American, Universal Standard, ELOQUII, Torrid, and Lane Bryant all carry plus size denim shorts in extended size ranges. Good American goes up to a size 5X and is worth trying especially if you often find denim shorts too snug in the hip and thigh.
What denim shorts styles are trending for women in midlife right now?
Longer inseams (the 5″ to 7″ range), high rises, and cleaner/darker washes are all strong right now. Barrel-leg and relaxed-fit silhouettes are also popular and tend to be very comfortable. Refined denim shorts in structured fabrics or unexpected colors are a good option if you want something that works beyond the most casual settings.
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Thanks for including styles for tall women-really appreciate this!
Hey there – number three in the Curvy Fit section doesn’t have a label – curious to know which pair that way, because it caught my eye – thanks!
Same here, please – I like the dark wash & cuffs!
Target: https://www.target.com/p/women-39-s-high-rise-jean-shorts-universal-thread-8482-dark-blue-18/-/A-80442343?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&fndsrc=tgtao&DFA=71700000012577775&CPNG=PLA_Women%2BShopping%7CWomen_Ecomm_AA&adgroup=SC_Women&LID=700000001170770pgs&LNM=PRODUCT_GROUP&network=g&device=c&location=9024571&targetid=pla-300925489891&ds_rl=1241788&ds_rl=1246978&ds_rl=1248099&gclid=CjwKCAjw0a-SBhBkEiwApljU0hDNxZp9LwOTZVQG0_UJ_RuYKSXoTMcOFqVD9VdR7v3CdVHI9G07ShoCCmoQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Hi Allie! I’m a longtime reader of your blog. I’m not plus sized, I’m not tall, or petite, or curvy (my waist isn’t particularly smaller in proportion to my hips) and I’m hunting for denim shorts. I’m 5’5″ and a 10-12 on bottom. Is there a good selection of shorts or some picks from your roundup that you think would work for me?
I am about your same size, also with a larger waist in proportion to my hips, and I have had the best luck with NYDJ shorts and more recently, ones from Jen 7 by 7 for All Mankind.
Nice selection of shorts!
As someone who is not tall, but not petite proportioned I sometimes get bermudas and shorten then a little.
In past years I’ve read blogger advice to consider going up a size in shorts. Depending on the cut of the shorts I think that’s a good idea, particularly if you’re shopping in-person and can try a different size without needing to process a return.
I agree with sizing up one size in shorts. I feel like Allie actually recommended doing this a while back and it has been a game-changer for me. Even though I know it’s the shorts and not my body that is the issue, trying on a pair that fits well the first time is better for my ego.
Good stuff!!
I am somewhere between amused and annoyed at some of the photographs, though. Pointy-toed stilettos with jeans shorts? U-shaped crotches (Photoshop Fail!). Fortunately most of the photographs are excellent and nicely inclusive!
I like the idea of shorts but cannot with the crotch creep especially in hot weather. Loose ones, long ones , short , pleated, skort, they all are a fail. The only shorts that don’t want to accordion fold up my inner thighs are the bike short style which accentuate my behind in an unattractive way. Short of gluing them to my legs I cannot make them work. Tips or tricks anyone? I shall continue with my hot weather standard of mid knee cotton shifts.
This is an incredible list, and I love how your numbers provide links to the items — thank you. With that said, everything I hate about jeans is magnified in denim shorts — the tight waist, the metal button that digs into my stomach, the confining fit, and in summer, the absolute hotness (not in a good way) of denim. Maybe I’ll try again, so thanks for a little inspiration.
Shorts feel like the wild west of clothing – I can adore the fit of pants and jeans from a brand, but then their shorts’ waist-hip-thigh opening ratios never match up to my body (and vice versa!). The absolute bane of my summer shopping are shorts that look PERFECT when standing up, and then somehow give me intense reverse-thigh-muffin-top when sitting down.
I’m getting myself mentally ready for this year’s round of denim-short-shopping, and am thankful for your roundup to make that process easier, thank you!
Thanks for this extensive list. A couple of days ago I posted my love for the gap denim, unfortunately I can not say the same for their denim shorts. I have a pair that I got a couple of years ago that are ok, but not great. But last summer I got a pair of the Levi’s 501s that are perfect. The waist fit, the length was just long enough but not to long, the thigh was loose enough I didn’t feel Ike a sausage but not so loose that it felt overwhelming, and the weight of the denim gave the shorts body but wasn’t so heavy that felt to hot to wear in the summer
And now I’ve got my eye on the Ann Taylor dressy pair you posted.