I’m getting tired of raw hems, especially in shorts. I love a good pair of cut-offs for the beach and other casual settings, but more often than not, I don’t want to wear distressed shorts. To me, a finished hem gives me a sense of more put-togetherness, which I love. Is anyone with me?
My 4 Favorite Types of Jean Shorts (That Aren’t Distressed Denim)
Last year I was lucky to get a pair of Cinq Sept jean shorts on sale at the end of the season — similar to these — which, let me tell you, are very sophisticated. It got me thinking I could add a couple more shorts to my repertoire that give off a different vibe. I also recently ordered this pair from Abercrombie (in white) and these Levi’s Mom shorts and loved how with just a change from raw and frayed to a finished hem, these shorts gave me a more put-together look. So, here is a round-up of four styles of non-distressed jean shorts for different kinds of summer vibes.
Featured Shorts (clockwise, from top right): agolde | reformation | cinq a sept | gap
1. For a Put-Together Feel: Dark-Wash Trouser Shorts
These jean shorts are a dark wash with a finished hem and zero distressing — not even any on the pockets — for the most put-together look. So much so that if your office allows you to wear shorts, some of the picks below can work with a blazer to wear at work. But if not, they’ll be amazing to dress up your tees or pair with your going-out tops for a night on the town.
Top Pick: Cinq a Sept Belted Denim Shorts (they run big) — I tried these on and believe me, wow, you get style and comfort with these. The material feels so comfy, lightweight and stretchy. Yes, they are an investment, but they are timeless and oh-so-chic. They are often included in special sales. The inseam is 4″ which is perfect for a not too short or long length. This other style in the same fabric is a little shorter but equally stunning.
Shop Dark-Wash Trouser Shorts
2. For Everyday Chic: Mid-Wash (With Cute Pockets!)
For more everyday jean shorts that are still a bit dressy, I’d go for a mid-wash with minimal distressing and a finished hem. These can easily replace your cut-offs for a more elevated outfit. I’m obsessed with the pockets on this par in a “Dark Indigo” wash from Gap, and I might have to snag the white version too before they sell out.
Top Pick: Gap High Rise Stride Shorts — These will go fast. A little more casual than the ones above, these are amazing. 4″ inseam, pockets, finished hem and more to make you look stunning. Also in Tall and Petite sizing, what’s not to love?
Shop Mid-Wash Jean Shorts
3. For Light & Dreamy Vibes: White Jean Shorts
Well, not all non-distressed jean shorts have to be on the darker side. Especially if you want a more relaxed yet put-together vibe. Lighter washes tend to be a little more casual (especially the blue ones), and white shorts are fun with a cute printed top or in a completely monochromatic look with a white button-down. I own and love this pair from Abercrombie in a gorgeous warm white.
Top Pick: Reformation Charlie High-Rise Shorts — Speaking about monochromatic, you have to click and see the full monochromatic outfit on the Reformation site. I love how these look fun and fresh with the studs.
Shop Light Wash & White Denim Shorts
4. For On-Trend Comfort: Long Denim Shorts
While looking at non-distressed jean shorts, I couldn’t help but notice all the longer shorts available at the moment, so, of course, they needed a place here. I wish I could rock them, but given my petite size and short, thick legs, I feel more confident in shorter lengths.
Top Pick: Agolde Cooper Cargo Shorts — Have you ever seen more stunning cargo shorts? So sophisticated. Pair them with your favorite sexy-ish top to counterbalance the relaxed fit and…boom, you’re done. They can be loose, or more snug and cropped, depending on your specific body they will look amazing.
Shop Long Denim Shorts
I promise to get you some photos of the ones I own and I’m ordering soon…but I’m on a trip in Northern Italy and only brought one pair of shorts that I haven’t worn yet and I’m not sure I will. I’ve seen lots of people still wearing boots and leather jackets and I’m like sweating so…haha. I’ll see you when I’m back in NY.
Besos,
Julieta
Do you want to stop wearing black, know what colors make you glow the most, and fine-tune your style? I’ll be opening spots in the upcoming weeks. Be the first to know here. You can also join me on IG (@julietatorresd) for casual-chic outfits. I’d love to see you there.
