Shopping for Denim Shorts Was a Nightmare Until I Found These 24 Inclusive Pairs

There's nothing more frustrating than shopping online for hours and not seeing anything you like. If you're plus size, limited sizing and silhouettes can make the struggle to find the perfect pair of jeans, dresses, or shorts much harder. Denim shorts have always been the item I struggle to shop for most. For the longest time, every style available in my size felt too boring, too long, too big, too small, or too cropped. Over the last few years, as more and more brands have caught on to the buying power and sartorial needs of the plus-size market, some of my favorite retailers have added cute, trend-forward styles in washes, cuts, and lengths that suit everyone (took them long enough).
Now that summer is here, I can't wait to pull my jean shorts from storage and feel comfortable and chic this summer. While my personal uniform involves a pair worn with a simple white tee and leather sandals, there's a ton of outfit inspiration available to convince you that you need a good pair of shorts.
Below, shop some of the best plus-size jean shorts just in time for summer. To spark joy and help you style them, I've included some super cute, inclusive outfit inspiration. Everyone deserves to find clothes they feel and look good in, and these 24 pairs do just that.
To re-create this look you'll want to reach for a pair of denim shorts and a cropped tank.
Shop the look:
Pair your favorite denim shorts with a crochet top to re-create this look.
Shop the look:
To re-create this fun look, pull on a tie-front top with your denim shorts.
Shop the look:
Next, Meet the Biggest Accessory Trend to Know for Summer 2023

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
-
Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for Summer
All the outfit inspiration is inside.
-
These $60 Flats Everyone Will Wear With Shorts Are About to Go Viral
Spoiler: They're on sale.
-
I'm a Professional Shopper—These 37 J.Crew, Banana Republic, Zara, Nordstrom, and Shopbop Items Are Giving
From pretty tops to cool pants.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—30 Must-Have Lightweight Denim Finds From Nordstrom I'm Loving This Summer
Everything from dresses to jeans to shorts.
-
I'm Shopping for Summer—Chic Finds From Revolve, Zara, and H&M That Have My Full Attention
Spring is long gone.
-
J.Crew's Latest Collab Is Cool, Dreamy, and Perfect for Summer
Yes to every single item.
-
J.Crew Is Having a Major Sale RN—Here Are 29 Pieces I Immediately Added to My Cart
Up to 50% off.
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This Summer
Obsessed.