No matter how the trends change and how popular tennis skirts and micro-mini skirts may be rn, a trusty pair of jean shorts is always a staple for summer and spring outfits (and even fall and winter if you live somewhere warm). The sad thing about finding the ultimate denim shorts—your go-to for every occasion—is that you wear them so much they eventually need to be replaced. If your cutoffs have ripped and frayed to pieces, your perfect-fitting pair are just not fitting right after so many washes, or your style preferences have changed (the early 2010s were interesting years for denim), it might be time to search for your new favorite pair (tear!).
We know how heartbreaking it is to move on, so we’ve made it easier on ya and gathered 21 of the best jean shorts that’ll make the perfect replacements. We’ve got vintage-inspired shorts from all eras (including the super-popular ’90s trends), all kinds of washes, lengths from cheeky to knee-grazing, high-waist to low-rise, and styles from casual to formal. Consider this your ultimate guide to finding your new favorite pair of jean shorts.
