I'll admit it: I avoided denim shorts for nearly a decade and would go so far as to say I was a bona fide hater. In my defense, the short cutoffs with low rises à la American Eagle were the only style option I had for many years, and if it wasn't already obvious, I'm not exactly a big fan of skintight denim shorts and actively avoided wearing them. All that is to say I'm breathing a huge sigh of relief now that relaxed styles are becoming a thing. While those tighter fits are still out there, its becoming increasingly easier to find looser-fitting shapes and shorts with more forgiving leg-opening measurements. (A good measure of thumb is roughly around 25 inches or higher for looser fits and around 21 inches or lower for tighter styles.)
Relaxed shorts are just so much easier to wear and the more comfortable option, but now, they've become the trendy way to wear denim shorts too. If you're on board with the relaxed look or are interested in testing the waters this season, I've pulled together my edit of the best relaxed denim shorts on the market, from a top-rated Levi's style to cool minimalistic Bermudas. Since outfit curations are one of my favorite hobbies, I've included several styling ideas to inspire your outfit choices along the way.
These one of J.Crew's top-rated shorts styles, and I can see why.
I always look for how roomy shorts are in the leg, and this Mango pair looks like the perfect relaxed fit.
I love when a good shopping find comes with an even better outfit idea.
Shocking no one, Levi's is behind one of the summer's most in-demand denim shorts.
I love how these hit at a cool mid-length that's elevated and ultra-wearable.
It's all in the name: These shorts couldn't be any easier to wear.
These fall just above the knees for a sleek, minimalistic feel. Net-a-Porter suggests pairing these with strappy sandals, and I couldn't agree more.
These have everything I'm looking for in a pair right now—10/10. No notes.
I love how these sit lower on the hips for an even more relaxed look.
You'll wear these so frequently the cost per wear will be virtually nonexistent.
"Editor" is right there in the name, so you know these shorts are good.
This darker wash is so elevated.
Bermuda shorts are back, baby.
Madewell has perfected its '90s jeans, so it should come as no surprise that the brand has also mastered relaxed denim shorts.
The perfect way to show off all your summer sandals.
I'm copying this look and wearing my Bermuda shorts with pretty ballet flats.
These are a great stepping stone between regular denim shorts and relaxed fits.
Mother never disappoints when it comes to denim.
Baggy without being unrefined.
The combination of this silhouette and wash is perfection to me.
I love this subtly frayed hem.
These top-rated shorts come in three staple washes.
I love how these relaxed shorts are styled with a button-down for a hint of polish.
Paige has some of the softest denim I've tried.
This mid-length is great when you're not in the mood for revealing short-shorts.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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