fShorts are a summer wardrobe staple, offering comfort and style in warm weather.
Women’s shorts come in a variety of designs and fits, ranging from casual to chic, suitable for different occasions and fashion preferences.
Whether you’re heading to the beach, going for a run, or dressing up for a casual day out, there’s a perfect pair of shorts to match your style.
This blog will explore 20 different types of shorts for women, highlighting their features and ideal uses.
List of Different Types of Shorts for Women
1. Denim Shorts
Denim shorts are a classic wardrobe essential, known for their versatility and durability.
They can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for casual outings, beach days, or even a night out.
Available in various lengths and washes, denim shorts are a timeless piece that pairs well with almost anything.
- Material: Denim
- Best For: Casual wear, versatile styling
- Features: Durable, available in various lengths and washes
2. High-Waisted Shorts
High-waisted shorts sit above the natural waistline, creating a flattering silhouette that elongates the legs.
These shorts can be paired with crop tops or tucked-in blouses for a chic, stylish look.
They come in various materials, including denim, linen, and cotton.
- Fit: High-waisted
- Best For: Flattering silhouette, chic styling
- Features: Sits above the waist, versatile materials
3. Bermuda Shorts
Bermuda shorts are longer shorts that typically end just above the knee.
They offer a modest and comfortable fit, making them ideal for casual wear or more conservative settings.
Bermuda shorts can be made from denim, cotton, or linen, and are perfect for a polished, relaxed look.
- Length: Just above the knee
- Best For: Modest, comfortable fit
- Features: Longer length, available in various materials
4. Bike Shorts
Bike shorts are tight-fitting, stretchy shorts designed for comfort and mobility.
Originally designed for cycling, they have become a popular fashion trend, often worn with oversized shirts or jackets.
Bike shorts are perfect for workouts, athleisure, or casual streetwear.
- Fit: Tight, stretchy
- Best For: Workouts, athleisure, casual wear
- Features: Comfortable, allows full range of motion
5. Running Shorts
Running shorts are lightweight and designed for performance, featuring moisture-wicking fabrics and built-in liners for comfort.
They often have a loose fit to allow for easy movement during exercise.
Running shorts are ideal for jogging, running, or other athletic activities.
- Material: Moisture-wicking fabric
- Best For: Running, athletic activities
- Features: Lightweight, built-in liners, loose fit
6. Cargo Shorts
Cargo shorts are practical and functional, featuring multiple pockets for carrying essentials.
They have a relaxed fit and are made from durable materials, making them perfect for outdoor activities or casual wear.
Cargo shorts are great for hiking, traveling, or everyday errands.
- Fit: Relaxed
- Best For: Outdoor activities, casual wear
- Features: Multiple pockets, durable material
7. Paperbag Waist Shorts
Paperbag shorts feature a high, gathered waist cinched with a belt or tie.
This style creates a flattering, cinched-in silhouette and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Paperbag waist shorts are ideal for dressier occasions or when you want to elevate a casual look.
- Waist: High, gathered with a belt or tie
- Best For: Flattering, dressy style
- Features: Cinched waist, elegant look
8. Cuffed Shorts
Cuffed shorts have a rolled-up hem, adding a casual, laid-back vibe to your outfit.
They are often made from denim, cotton, or linen and are versatile enough for both casual and slightly more polished looks.
Cuffed shorts are perfect for a relaxed day out.
- Hem: Rolled-up
- Best For: Casual, laid-back style
- Features: Versatile, available in various materials
9. Chino Shorts
Chino shorts are made from lightweight cotton twill, offering a polished and preppy look.
They have a clean, tailored fit and are often worn in more formal casual settings.
Chino shorts are ideal for summer outings, golf, or casual office wear.
- Material: Cotton twill
- Best For: Polished, preppy look
- Features: Clean, tailored fit, lightweight
10. Tailored Shorts
Tailored shorts are designed for a more structured, refined look, often featuring pleats, darts, or a high waist.
They are perfect for dressier occasions, such as brunches, garden parties, or even work environments.
Tailored shorts pair well with blouses, blazers, and heels.
- Fit: Structured, refined
- Best For: Dressier occasions, work environments
- Features: Pleats, high waist, structured design
11. Linen Shorts
Linen shorts are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for hot summer days.
They have a relaxed fit and often feature an elastic or drawstring waist for added comfort.
Linen shorts are ideal for beachwear, vacations, or casual outings.
- Material: Linen
- Best For: Hot weather, casual wear
- Features: Lightweight, breathable, relaxed fit
12. Athletic Shorts
Athletic shorts are designed for performance and comfort, often made from moisture-wicking fabrics with an elastic waistband.
They are versatile enough for various sports and fitness activities, from gym workouts to yoga.
Athletic shorts are a staple for any active lifestyle.
- Material: Moisture-wicking fabric
- Best For: Sports, fitness activities
- Features: Elastic waistband, comfortable fit
13. Cutoff Shorts
Cutoff shorts are typically made from old jeans that have been cut above the knee, creating a raw, unfinished hem.
They offer a rugged, edgy look and are perfect for casual wear, especially during the summer.
Cutoff shorts can be DIY or purchased with a pre-cut design.
- Hem: Raw, unfinished
- Best For: Casual, edgy style
- Features: Made from old jeans, rugged appearance
14. Board Shorts
Board shorts are designed for water sports, typically made from quick-drying, durable fabric.
They have a longer length and a loose fit, offering comfort and coverage during activities like surfing or swimming.
Board shorts are a must-have for beach and pool days.
- Material: Quick-drying fabric
- Best For: Water sports, beachwear
- Features: Longer length, loose fit
15. Pleated Shorts
Pleated shorts feature pleats at the waist, adding volume and a tailored look.
These shorts can range from casual to dressy, depending on the material and styling.
Pleated shorts are great for adding a touch of sophistication to your summer wardrobe.
- Detail: Pleats at the waist
- Best For: Sophisticated, tailored style
- Features: Adds volume, versatile styling
16. Lace Shorts
Lace shorts are feminine and delicate, often featuring intricate lace patterns and a soft, lightweight fabric.
They are perfect for dressy summer events or romantic looks and can be paired with blouses or simple tops for an elegant outfit.
- Material: Lace
- Best For: Dressy, feminine style
- Features: Intricate patterns, lightweight
17. Boyfriend Shorts
Boyfriend shorts are loose-fitting, relaxed shorts that offer a laid-back, casual vibe.
They are typically made from denim and have a longer, slightly baggy fit.
Boyfriend shorts are perfect for a comfortable, easygoing look.
- Fit: Loose, relaxed
- Best For: Casual, laid-back style
- Features: Longer length, baggy fit
18. Skort (Skirt Shorts)
A skort combines the look of a skirt with the comfort and practicality of shorts. It features a skirt-like front with shorts underneath, making it ideal for active wear or when you want to add a playful twist to your outfit without sacrificing comfort.
- Design: Skirt front with shorts underneath
- Best For: Active wear, playful style
- Features: Skirt-like appearance, practical
19. Distressed Shorts
Distressed shorts feature intentional rips, tears, and fraying for a worn-in, edgy look.
They are often made from denim and are popular for casual, rebellious styles.
Distressed shorts are great for creating a grunge-inspired outfit or adding a bit of attitude to your summer wardrobe.
- Detail: Rips, tears, fraying
- Best For: Edgy, rebellious style
- Features: Worn-in appearance, casual look
20. Track Shorts
Track shorts are lightweight, loose-fitting shorts designed for running or athletic activities.
They typically feature an elastic waistband and may have side stripes or logos.
Track shorts are ideal for workouts, sports, or just lounging around.
- Fit: Loose, comfortable
- Best For: Running, athletic activities
- Features: Elastic waistband, lightweight
Conclusion
With so many styles to choose from, shorts offer a perfect blend of comfort and fashion for warm-weather wear.
From classic denim shorts to chic tailored options, there’s a style for every occasion and body type.
By understanding the different types of shorts available, you can easily find the perfect pair to suit your needs, whether you’re dressing up for an event or keeping it casual for a day out.
