The best denim shorts and where to buy them for summer 2026

There probably isn’t a garment more closely associated with the summer than the classic denim short. Whether you’re into the ultra-mini, figure-hugging Daisy Dukes, or the oversized boyfriend ‘jorts’ that have dominated the social media trend cycle for the past six months – there’s really no denying their prevalence and timelessness.

As we head into warmer weather (in the southern hemisphere at least), it’s time to start thinking about beginning the search for the perfect pair of denim. Some vintage Levi’s cut-offs, perhaps? Maybe some classic, relaxed-fit indigos are more your style? Whatever your prerogative, budget or style, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the best denim shorts for summer, below.

Best classic denim shorts

If what you’re looking for is a stock-standard, no-frills-attached, flattering denim short that will go with just about anything, then these are the selects for you. Straight-down-the-line indigo washes with no heavy distressing or embellishing – the kind that will compliment just about any summer ensemble you dare to throw on.

1. AERE Mia Classic Denim Shorts

2. AGOLD Parker Long Clean organic denim shorts

3. Nagnata Vegetable Dye Bermuda Shorts

Best white denim shorts

The white denim short is a summertime affair – perfect for sitting wharf-side, or for strolling the beach. They come in just as many silhouettes and styles as their indigo counterparts, but are a great way to elevate the casual appeal of the everyday denim look.

1. Assembly Label Mid Rise Denim Shorts

2. Citizens of Humanity Court Denim Shorts

3. HENNE Reese Short

Best long denim shorts (jorts)

The jort has taken the fashionable denizens of social media by storm in recent months, and it seems like you can’t go anywhere in Australia without catching a pair on the streets or at a bar – usually pared with a cardigan, tank top, baseball cap or a pair of sneakers

1. Scarlet & Sam Signature Belted Bermuda Short

2. Elka Collective Odin Short

3. Scanlan Theodore Denim Drape Short

Best black denim shorts

Black denim shorts offer a day-to-night option for the warmer months of the year. While they might still be associated in your mind with the pop punk days of your youth, there are so many fresh and contemporary silhouettes on the market these days – you’ll hardly find yourself reminiscing. It would be a crime to not include a classic pair of Wranglers. These Hi Bells Shorts are a necessary staple in ones wardrobe. POSSE Drew Hotpants in Black and ROLLA’s Super Mirage Shorts are both sleek, modern takes on the look, and we can’t go past the luxury of these SAINT LAURENT Frayed Denim Shorts. Or for something a practical, why not these Carhartt Work In Progress Black Brandon Denim Shorts.

1. Alpha60 Nadia Denim Short

2. Rolla’s Super Mirage Shorts

3. Free People We The Free Montana Shorts

Best cut-off denim shorts

The humble cut-off denim short is about as timeless as it gets – a staple in most peoples’ wardrobes from the time they’re old enough to walk. Durable, comfortable and fashionable; they’ll take you through the brunt of summer without too much trouble – no careful handling necessary.

1. Ksubi Rise N Hi Short Authentik

2. Frame The Hang Short

3. Levi’s 501® ORIGINAL SHORT

Best designer denim shorts

When it comes to designer and luxury denim, there are two roads you can travel down. We have the quiet luxury route – seeking out brands and garments crafted with the finest materials and an attentive hand, but which only scream luxury to the well-trained eye.

1. LOEWE + Paula’s Ibiza Anagram Distressed Denim Shorts

2. Prada Denim Shorts

3. Miu Miu Frayed Denim Shorts

Best denim shorts on a budget

Not everyone is ready to drop hundreds of dollars on a pair of denim shorts – especially if you’re the adventurous type, planning to spend your summer camping, hiking, and otherwise testing the limits of your garments. A pair of denim shorts for you isn’t about an investment, except in the comfort and durability of their wear. But even when you’re on a budget, you still want to look good.