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Womens/Clothing/Bottoms/Shorts

Top 10 High-Waisted Denim Shorts

Meet The 10 Jean Shorts Shoppers Buy When Seeking A High-Rise And Comfortable Fit

Meet The 10 Jean Shorts Shoppers Buy When Seeking A High-Rise And Comfortable Fit

When it comes to summertime wardrobe staples, few pieces are more flattering, comfortable, and effortlessly chic than a pair of high-waisted denim shorts. It’s one of those things that complements every body type, is easy to style, and is appropriate for just about any casual summer occasion, from brunches with friends to days at the beach. Simply put, high-rise shorts are a seasonal must-have. And with summer just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to refresh your denim go-to's with this season’s best high-waisted denim shorts.

From slouchy, mid-length styles to slim-fitting silhouettes, we’ve rounded up a list that'll help you find the best high-rise denim shorts to get you through the hot days ahead.

How We Found The Best High-Waisted Shorts

The stress that often accompanies shopping for shorts online is a thing of the past. Thanks to our unbiased, data-driven algorithm that considers things like editorial recommendations, best-selling buzz, and rave reviews, we're bringing you the best high-waisted shorts on the market, so you can find a pair that fits your style without having to scroll through dozens of pages. Read on to find your new favorite pair of denim high-waisted shorts.

Next up, check out the 10 Best White Denim ShortsOpening image: madewell.com

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May 17, 2022

Written By:Naomi Venerable

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: old navy
Rank & Style Approved

old navy

Old Navy High-Waisted Slouchy Straight Medium-Wash Cut-Off Non-Stretch Jean Shorts

Overall Score

4.55

10

Old Navy High-Waisted Slouchy Straight Medium-Wash Cut-Off Non-Stretch Jean Shorts

4.4

83 User Reviews

2.5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: These slouchy denim shorts from Old Navy are a relaxed, cooler version of dad jeans. They sit at your natural waist and have a loose, straight leg, so they're equal parts flattering and comfortable. Plus, the raw-edge cut-off creates a distressed, lived-in look to go along with the casual vibes of summer.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These jean shorts are 100% cotton-denim and made with 5% recycled cotton, which means less waste in the world.

Inclusive

Inclusive


Levi's Ribcage Short

Overall Score

4.4

09

Levi's Ribcage Short

4.12

225 User Reviews

2.7

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Made with the same fit as the brand's beloved Ribcage Jeans, these Levi's denim shorts have a high-waist design that fits slim through the thigh and features frayed edges and a cut-off hem.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These shorts are sustainably made with 100% Tencel lyocell fabric to reduce environmental impact.

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Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Mom Shorts

Overall Score

4.4

08

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Mom Shorts

4.3

26 User Reviews

2.3

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Abercrombie’s Curve Love shorts are roomier through the hip and thigh than their classic fit, which makes these a favorite among curvy women. The shorts have distressed styling throughout and are long enough to give you complete coverage in the back. Luckily, they're available in sizes ranging from 23W to 37W and come in nine different washes.

USER REVIEW: “These shorts are everything! I have always struggled to find the perfect pair of denim shorts because my waist is a lot smaller than my hips and butt, and these really hug in all the right places. The length is great too—not too short but also not too long. Can't recommend them enough!”

More Colors

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Inclusive

Inclusive


American Eagle Stretch Denim '90s Boyfriend Short

Overall Score

4.45

07

American Eagle Stretch Denim '90s Boyfriend Short

4.7

51 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: The 90 still has a tight grip on the fashion world today, and for good reason. The era released some of the hottest trends in fashion, including shorts with high-rise design and straight-cut silhouette for that true vintage A-line fit.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These shorts are made with 53% cotton and 20% Lyocell, so you’ll have enough stretch for everyday comfort.

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Madewell Relaxed Mid-Length Denim Shorts

Overall Score

4.5

06

Madewell Relaxed Mid-Length Denim Shorts

4.6

9 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Madewell is a go-to for quality denim. These mid-length shorts are made with a heavyweight, nonstretch denim fit that sits lower on the hips, giving a laid-back '90s vibe.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These shorts are made with premium 100% cotton. 


Madewell High-Rise Denim Shorts In Lavista Wash

Overall Score

4.5

05

Madewell High-Rise Denim Shorts In Lavista Wash

4.6

7 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: With their slim-fitting silhouette, these shorts fall on the sexy side. Fitted through the hip and thigh, they feature Madewell's Magic Pockets that use reinforced front-pocket technology to hold you in for an ultra-smooth look.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: For each pair of Madewell jeans made at the Fair Trade Certified Saitex Factory, Madewell contributes to a Community Development Fund managed by the factory workers.


Free People We The Free Crvy Vintage High-Rise Shorts

Overall Score

4.55

04

Free People We The Free Crvy Vintage High-Rise Shorts

4.7

203 User Reviews

2.7

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Free People made the CRVY Collection with shapely women in mind. These vintage-inspired denim shorts are made with super comfortable stretch fabric, a contoured waistband, and slimming pockets.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These curve-friendly denim shorts are available in nine different washes, including an olive green and lilac purple. 

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AGOLDE Dee Ultra High Rise Shorts

Overall Score

4.65

03

AGOLDE Dee Ultra High Rise Shorts

4.5

10 User Reviews

2.1

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Celebrity-approved denim brand, Agolde, has delivered yet another great pair of denim shorts featuring a high-rise fit, faded wash, subtle paint splatters, and distressed details.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These jeans are made with non-stretch denim, so we recommend sizing up if you want a looser fit.

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AGOLDE Parker Cutoff Denim Shorts

Overall Score

4.85

02

AGOLDE Parker Cutoff Denim Shorts

4.2

169 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: These denim shorts have a relaxed fit with a vintage-style attitude thanks to the light wash and raw-edge hems.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Reviewers claim they "see what the hype is about" after purchasing these Agolde shorts.

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Levi's 501 Original Shorts

Overall Score

4.85

01

Levi's 501 Original Shorts

4.4

12306 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Levi’s first-ever jean shorts—the 501s—have gotten a modern update. The classic style features shredded hems and heavy fading on a light denim wash that adds to its edgy yet vintage-inspired appearance.

USER REVIEW: “These are so cute. I’m usually a size 29 in Levi’s pants but I bought a 30 for these, and they fit wonderfully and aren’t too short or tight but still fitted at the waist. Highly recommend these! Can’t wait to wear them out.”

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