Mom shorts, boyfriend shorts, baggy shorts, call them what you want; denim mom shorts are one of the hottest (and most comfortable) fashion trends of summer wear. Casual comfort is what mom shorts it's all about as we swap our elastic waistbands for real pants again, meaning straight-leg jeans and mom shorts have replaced skin-tight denim for good.
Inspired by the quintessential "mom jeans" and "mom shorts" of the 80s and 90s, these comfortable and cute summer bottoms offer a loose, high-waist fit with a casual, laid-back feel. But unlike the notoriously unflattering mom shorts of summer's past, this season's styles are made with flattering cuts that accentuate your curves and lift your backside.
When it comes to mom shorts, the key to nailing to look is ignoring the size on the tag. Instead, focus on fit. You may find you need to go up a size or two from your regular size in vintage-inspired shorts made with rigid, non-stretch denim fabric. If you're in between sizes, we recommend opting for sizing up so you can successfully achieve the relaxed look you're going for.
Why You Would Love Mom Shorts
One of the most important reasons why people love mom shorts is because of the fit. The high-waisted shorts and length fit well for any body type, especially for curvy body type and athletic build. Unlike traditional shorts, mom shorts offer longer length so you can feel age-appropriate to your comfort level while being stylish—another reason why mom loves to wear these shorts.
How To Style Mom Jean Shorts
There are many ways to wear and style denim mom shorts, so you can wear them from ladies who brunch to date night. Here are three exciting ideas we love wearing them:
Oversize Top
Wear mom jean shorts with an oversized top and tuck them away into the waistband. You can also cuff up the sleeves and tie a knot at your torso as a beach day outfit or picnic at the park.
Blazer
Throw on a plain tee or tank with some silver or gold jewelry and wear a blazer over it is great to dress up for brunch or date night.
Statement Top
To add more colour to mom jean shorts, wear a statement top to brighten up your outfit.
Check Out Our Picks for the Best Denim Mom Shorts
Levi's 501 Original Denim Shorts
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When it comes to denim shorts, no pair is more iconic than Levi's 501 Original Denim Shorts. The versatile high-rise cutoffs have been spotted on nearly every celebrity and style icon of the past three decades, including everyone from Hailey Bieber to Cindy Crawford to Beyonce. Levi's vintage-inspired 100% cotton non-stretch denim only gets better over time, so prepare to keep your pair forever. The trendy denim mom shorts come in four summery shades: black, light wash, medium stone wash, and a chic white floral print.
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Not quite ready for real pants yet? Everlane's Easy Jean Shorts combine the comfort of an elastic waistband with the stylish look of classic denim mom shorts. The relaxed-fit shorts are made using 100% organic cotton that's loosely woven for a soft, vintage-inspired feel. Plus, unlike many pull-on denim shorts, they come equipped with convenient side pockets. In addition to denim, the versatile summer staple is also available in lightweight, chino-inspired cotton twill.
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Madewell's Mom Shorts provide a fresh take on classic denim mom shorts. Similar to the original styles from the 80s and 90s, they feature a super high rise and a relaxed A-line silhouette made from non-stretch cotton denim. One of Madewell's best-selling shades, the ultra-light wash looks equally as chic paired with sneakers and a white tee as it does with a cute summer blouse and heeled sandals.
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One of the best things about mom jean shorts is that they look great on women of all shapes and sizes. These Plus-Size Destructed Midi Shorts from Ava & Viv are the perfect length, rise, and relaxed fit for curvy gals. The distressed finish, frayed hem, and medium wash give them a casual summer feel, while soft, stretch denim fabric provides all-day comfort and rub-free movement.
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Over the past decade, Australian denim brand OneTeaspoon has gained a cult following of celebrities, musicians, influencers, and stylish women worldwide. Their Legend Mom Shorts have a slouchy fit with wide leg openings that look both sophisticated and effortless. A button fly closure, distressing details, and a raw bottom hem give them a classic jean short finish. OneTeaspoon's mom shorts are available in both medium and light wash, both of which would look equally as stylish for summer 2021.
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Though often referred to by different names, mom jean shorts and boyfriend shorts are essentially the same things. Both styles are made with a relaxed fit that's designed for casual wear and all-day comfort. While other white shorts can be unflattering, these laid-back White Boyfriend Shorts from 7 For All Mankind have the perfect balance of stretch and support. In addition to this sleek whitewash, the shorts also come in a distressed light wash and a faded black color.
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While mom shorts may have a reputation of being boring and baggy, these High-Rise 4-Inch Jean Shorts from the Banana Republic are anything but. Throw them on over your swimsuit, tuck your favorite graphic tee into them, or dress them up with a white blouse and sandals. Their high-rise, straight fit, and rigid denim make for a versatile pair of flattering boyfriend shorts you'll keep coming back to all summer long.
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Looking for a pair of mom shorts with a bit of stretch? Old Navy's O.G. Straight Jean Shorts are made with a touch of spandex for just the right amount of giving. Their high waist, three-inch inseam, and rolled bottom hem have a timeless look that can easily be dressed up or down. Plus, the universally flattering style comes in an extended range of sizes from 0 to 20.
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Target's Universal Thread line is known for its high-quality denim, figure-flattering styles, and affordable price point, and these High-Rise Distressed Jean Shorts are no exception. The soft denim fabric and relaxed fit are accented by distressed detailing and a raw hem for a laid-back summer feel. Their classic fit, high waist, and five-pocket styling guarantee they'll still be in style for many summers to come.
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Everlane's A-Line Denim Shorts are a waist-accentuating take on tried-and-true denim mom shorts. The simple A-line silhouette nips in your natural waist without gapping or being too tight and lifts your backside while providing full coverage. They're made with premium non-stretch organic cotton, available in either Medium Indigo or Powder Blue, that's designed to withstand summer after summer of wear.
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Searching for a pair of denim shorts that aren't quite so...short? You can't go wrong with Levi's 501 Mid-Thigh Women's Denim Shorts. The classic mom shorts feature the exact same relaxed fit and high rise as their best-selling 501 Original Denim Shorts with a slightly longer inseam length. And just like the original style, they're made with 100% non-stretch cotton denim that molds to your body over time. Choose from four time-tested washes ranging from a distressed light wash to a grungy faded black.
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If you're someone whose jeans and denim shorts often gap at the waist, try a pair of shorts— like these Curvy Relaxed Denim Shorts: Ripped Edition— from Madewell's curvy denim line. They're designed with a longer rise and a little extra room through the hips and thighs to accommodate fuller backsides and hourglass curves. The button-fly, rigid 100% cotton denim and relaxed fit make these mom shorts versatile enough to wear with all your favorite summer tees, tanks, and blouses.
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These sleek Black Wash Denim Mom Shorts from Calvin Klein are an elevated take on grungy 90s jean shorts. But unlike most of the other baggy jean shorts on the market this season, they're made with cotton stretch denim for maximum comfort and mobility. The high-rise waist, cutoff hem, zip fly closure, and 5-pocket styling mean the classic style can be dressed up or down with everything in your closet—or in your suitcase!
