Apart from jeans and basic tees and tanks, there's really no summer wardrobe item more ubiquitous among the fashion set than a pair of easy high-waisted shorts. Sure, sundresses and skirt sets are popular, but they aren't what you put on in a flash. On most days, it's shorts—likely paired with an oversize button-down shirt and some flat sandals—that make the cut.
If your closet looks anything like mine, you probably own a dozen or so pairs of high-waisted shorts already. That said, after wearing the ones in your existing collection multiple days a week for too many summers to count, I bet you're due for an update (or am I the only one?).
Keep scrolling to shop every fashion person's go-to summer bottom, from denim cutoffs to tailored Bermudas.
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Zara
Straight Denim Shorts
Done and done.
Mango
Pockets Cotton Shorts
The perfect shorts for when you want to look put-together on an extremely hot summer day.
Levi's
501 Original Short
Well, these are a no-brainer.
Reformation
Beaux Linen Short
I adore this shade of brown.
H&M
High Waist Denim Shorts
I love this length so much that I bought a pair for myself.
Madewell
Relaxed Mid-Length Denim Shorts
Clearly, you (and I) need these shorts.
Everlane
The Linen Boxer Short
Yes, boxers count as shorts.
Mango
Mini Shorts With Frayed Hem
The darker wash makes these look dressier than they are.
Open Edit
Soft Pleated Shorts
Simple and classy—the perfect combo.
Yaitte
Elba Striped Shorts
I've had my eye on these for ages.
Mango
Denim Bermuda Shorts With Frayed Hem
Bermuda shorts make every shorts outfit look 10 times more elevated.
Significant Other
Theodora Ladder-Stitched Linen-Blend Shorts
These linen shorts are going on my wish list immediately.
Zara
Mid-Rise Denim Shorts
Consider these en route to my door.
11 Honoré
Mara High Waist Shorts
Okay, chic.
Agolde
Dee Denim Shorts
Agolde denim never fails to impress.
Reformation
Pierce Utility Shorts
These cargo shorts are a must.
Tory Sport
Easy Performance Nylon Shorts
Hit the courts.
Levi's
Ribcage Shorts
Levi's Ribcage line is next-level good.
Cos
Pleated Bermuda Shorts
Okay, COS. Go off.
Babaton
Pleated 5 Short
These are beloved by all Aritzia shoppers.
EB Denim
Cross Over Shorts
The crossover-denim trend is still going strong.
Closed
High Waist Linen Blend Shorts
Everyone who tries Closed loves Closed.
Cult Gaia
Itzel Shorts
Yes, drawstring shorts can be elevated. These are proof.
The Frankie Shop
Perla Shell Shorts
This set is going to go viral. There's no doubt about it.
J.Crew
7-Inch Stretch Chino Short
My love for these shorts is strong.
Eloquii
Mom Jean Shorts
Don't hesitate.
Reformation
Easton Linen Short
These will get so much wear.
Sami Miro Vintage
Mini Safety Pin Sweatshort
If you don't own anything from Sami Miro Vintage, you should change that.
Anemos
The High Waisted Board Shorts
These are a sign to book a vacation, stat.
Open Edit
Relaxed Pull-On Shorts
These look way more expensive than $45.
Nili Lotan
Augusta Cotton-Twill Shorts
A timeless choice.
Frame
Le Grand Garcon Frayed Denim Shorts
Summer, meet your perfect match.
Khaite
Luciano Cashmere-Wool Mini Shorts
Can you believe this sale?
& Other Stories
Forever Cut Denim Shorts
These aren't called the "Forever Cut" for nothing.
Eliza Huber is currently the Associate Editorial Director at Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2021 as a fashion editor after spending four years as a writer at Refinery29. At WWW, she launched Go Sports, the publication's sports vertical, and published seven (and counting) quarterly issues tied to the WNBA, Formula One, the Olympics, and the US Open. She also created two franchises, Let's Get a Room and Ways to Wear; profiled Dakota Fanning, Diane Kruger, Katie Holmes, Gracie Abrams, and Sabrina Carpenter for WWW's monthly cover features; and reported on new seasonal trends, up-and-coming designers, and celebrity style.