Nearly Everyone I Know Owns This One Timeless Summer Essential—These Are My Favorites

New York has just entered the perfect time of year, or what I like to refer to as "peak denim shorts" season. Summer is rounding the corner in the city, and thanks to the high temperatures and our changing closets, there's not a single item I'm more excited to pull out of storage than my classic denim shorts.
There are dozens of denim shorts and jean shorts out there for every kind of sartorial taste—dark wash, light wash, micro minis, and bermudas—but one thing all fashion people can agree on is that when the temperatures rise, the denim shorts come out to play. Not only is the classic cutoff style timeless throughout the ages, spanning as far back as the late '60s, but they also go with practically anything in your wardrobe—T-shirts, cardigans, button-downs, and lacy linens included.
Below, I've rounded up my 34 favorite pairs of denim shorts for every taste and budget, from triple-digit designer finds to low-key luxe items for under $30. Trust me—I have a feeling these are all going to sell out before summer officially hits.
Good American's classic denim shorts (available in an expansive size range) have become a go-to for me.
No wonder Everlane's denim is constantly raved about— it looks so rich.
As someone who owns way too may pairs of Zara denim shorts, I have to admit, these are at the top of my list.
Fashion people can't get enough of Agolde's classic Parker shorts.
I have a sneaky feeling these would go with anything in your closet.
Loulou Studio is the cool-girl label everyone's been paying attention to as of late.
Another pair of Parker shorts for you to feast your eyes on.
This toned-down, quiet-luxury pair is ideal for any Sabato de Sarno enthusiasts.
A&F's Curve Love line has been one of my best discoveries of the year.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
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