The Best Shorts for Summer 2026: Denim, Twill, Linen & More

How to Find Your Ideal Shorts Length

When it comes to shorts shopping, knowing your preferred inseam length can make the process so much easier. It helps narrow down your choices and saves you from the frustration of trying on every style out there. Many women tend to gravitate toward longer shorts as they get older, and while longer styles are definitely trending this season, I’d caution against going too long. They can be tricky to pull off unless you’re especially tall and leggy.

Personally, I prefer an inseam somewhere between 3″ and 5″. For me, that’s the sweet spot for balancing coverage and flattery.

KUT from the Kloth Jane – 4 1/2″ inseam (8) // Z Supply tank c/o (L) // Loeffler Randall flip flops (8)

If you’re not sure what length works best for you, try experimenting. Take a few pairs in different lengths, snap some photos, and compare them side by side.

You can also cuff a longer pair an inch at a time and take photos to see what feels most proportionate on your body. Shorts that are too long can sometimes look frumpy, while styles that are too short may not feel as polished. Of course, your body type and vertical proportions play a role too.

With all that in mind, here are my favorite shorts for summer and how I like to style them—plus a roundup of even more great options to shop!

Denim Shorts: The Classic Summer Staple

Denim shorts are a summer staple for a reason. They go with just about everything and are incredibly easy to style. The fabric is also practical—you can wear them multiple times without washing, and they do a great job of hiding dirt and stains, which makes them especially great for travel and busy summer days.

These Gap Factory jean shorts were my go-to pair last summer, and I’ve already been wearing them on repeat again this spring, both at home and on my recent Florida trip. The medium wash works with everything, and I love the clean hem and timeless design. They have a mid-rise fit and my favorite 5″ inseam for just the right amount of coverage.

Gap Factory 5″ Denim Shorts (29) // J.Crew linen tee (M) // Gola sneakers (7.5) // YSL sunnies

White Twill Shorts: Classic, Clean & Chic

When I want to elevate my shorts outfits a bit, I reach for a pair of crisp white twill shorts. They’re just as easy to dress up or down as classic denim, but they have a more polished feel.

These Vineyard Vines Herringbone Stretch Cotton Shorts have been a workhorse in my spring and summer wardrobe for the past two years. The subtle herringbone texture adds a refined touch, and the cotton-rich fabric has just enough stretch for comfort without losing its structure. I have the 3 1/2″ inseam, but they’re also available in a 5″ inseam if you prefer a little more coverage. I liked them so much, I ended up buying a few more colors for this summer.

Vineyard Vines Herringbone 3.5″ Shorts (10) // old Faherty sweater (S) // LNA Dessa (M) // Dolce Vita sandals (8) // similar handbag // similar bangles // necklace // earrings // sunglasses

Shop White Shorts for Summer:

Olive Utility Shorts: A Comfy Neutral With a Twist

I always like to have a pair of olive utility shorts in my summer wardrobe. They feel a little more interesting than basic tan or khaki shorts, and I find the color more flattering on my skin tone. The utility details give them a casual vibe, and they pair especially well with black tops.

I’ve had these Sanctuary Renegade Shorts for several years now. They’re made from a super-stretchy twill and have a back elastic waistband that makes them especially comfortable to wear. This year’s version is called the Wander On Short, but they look virtually identical.

similar Sanctuary shorts (29) // similar black tank (S) // Sam Edelman raffia slides (8)