One of the best parts of summer is getting the chance to step out of your beloved skinny jeans and finally let your legs breathe. While skirts and dresses have a special place in my heart (and an entire section of my closet), some days I can’t be bothered to deal with any thigh chafing, which is why stylish shorts are such a summertime savior. Here are 13 pairs that plus-size ladies can—and should—wear from now until Labor Day. And maybe a few weeks after that too.
The 13 Best Plus-Size Shorts to Get You Through Summer’s Heat in Style
Thigh chafing will be a thing of the past
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Published Jun 28, 2024
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Levi's/Reformation/Eloquii
The Best Plus-Size Shorts at a Glance
1
Best Overall
Maeve The Colette Short
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2
Best Athleisure Shorts
Athleta Brooklyn Short
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3
Most Comfortable Denim Shorts
LL. Bean Sunwashed Denim Shorts
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4
Most Vacation-Ready Shorts
Reformation Mason Shorts
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5
Most Comfortable Shorts
LL. Bean Wrinkle-Free Bayside Shorts
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How I Chose the Best Plus-Size Shorts
To choose the best shorts suited for plus sizes, I checked my favorite retailers with the best warm-weather fashion pieces in extended sizing like Eloquii and Anthropologie. I also paid extra attention to reviews noting what shoppers are saying about the shorts’ comfortability, style and how good they are at preventing thigh chafing. Plus, some picks checking all the boxes of current fashion trends.
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Best Overall
What I Like
- machine washable
- stretchy
What I Don't Like
- some reviewers say they run large
Maeve
If you’re a fan of the OG Maeve Collette Pants (that are loved by our editors and readers alike), then you’ll for sure love them in the short style. Like the pants, these shorts are highly rated and well-loved by Anthro customers. Reportedly, the fabric is extremely stretchy, providing lots of room around the thigh area, though reviewers say it may be wise to size down.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: 16W to 26W (also available in standard and petite)
- Materials: viscose, linen, cotton and elastane
Best Athleisure Shorts
What I Like
- machine washable
- semi-fitted
What I Don't Like
- some reviewers say they run tight around the waistband
Athleta
In case you were searching for a more active-friendly option, this sporty pair has a four-inch inseam and pockets at the front and back. Plus, they’re breathable, abrasion-resistant and machine washable. And don’t worry, this versatile pick isn’t just for hitting up the gym or a workout class. These shorts are also perfect for running errands or casual summer days when paired with a simple tee and your favorite white sneakers. And with their quick-drying properties, they also make for a great beach or pool bag essential.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: US 0 to 26
- Materials: recycled polyester and spandex
Most Comfortable Denim Shorts
3. L.L. Bean Sunwashed Denim Shorts
What I Like
- relaxed fit
- elastic waistband
- machine washable
What I Don't Like
- some shoppers say they run big
L.L.Bean
These lightweight shorts have the same versatility as your favorite jeans or cut-offs but with oh so much more breathability and movement. Per L.L. Bean’s description, these shorts have a very relaxed fit with a six-inch inseam, so they leave plenty of space (some reviewers say they run a bit large, so check the size chart). This denim find is particularly unique due to its elasticated waistband and drawstring, so you can adjust to your liking.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: 1X to 3X (roughly a US 18W to 26W)
- Materials: 100 percent cotton denim
Most Vacation-Ready Shorts
What I Like
- machine washable
- lightweight
What I Don't Like
- no reviews
- pricey
Reformation
Amalficore is having a moment this summer and these stunners are just the thing for a European-style getaway. These Reformation shorts have a relaxed fit and are designed with lightweight fabric perfect for breezy boat rides sailing on Italian coasts. Tailored shorts are an underrated fashion item that everyone should have at their disposal, especially in their summer capsule wardrobe. Not only are they incredibly chic, they make any basic top look high fashion. Like styled above, you can pair with a crisp white tank and comfy sandals.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: US 14 to 24 (also available in 0 to 12)
- Materials: 100 percent Tencel lyocell
Most Comfortable Shorts
5. L.L. Bean Wrinkle-Free Bayside Shorts
What I Like
- comfortable
What I Don't Like
- may run small
L.L. Bean
Everyone needs a classic pair of longer-length cotton shorts that cool you off but make you feel covered, so why not pick up a pair that promises to stay wrinkle-free all day long? This L.L Bean staple comes highly recommended by customers. One writes, “These shorts are the queen of queens of all shorts. The fit is extremely comfortable, can be dressed up or casual. Material is top notch quality, slow to fade even when exposed to sunlight and multiple washings.”
Fast Facts
- Sizing: 18W to 26W (also available in regular)
- Materials: 100 percent cotton twill
Best Workwear Shorts
What I Like
- tailored fit
- machine washable
- affordable
What I Don't Like
- little to no stretch
Eloquii
In need of some warm-weather workwear inspo? While tweed seems like a major no-no in this heat, these shorts are lightweight and unlined, so the fabric isn’t unbearable or clinging to your thighs. I also adore matching sets, taking the guesswork out of picking a full outfit, and this pair just so happens to have a matching tweed vest. See, summertime office fashion doesn’t have to be boring.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: US 14 to 32
- Materials: 77 percent polyester, 10 percent wool, 6 percent cotton, 5 percent acrylic and 2 percent spandex
Best Linen Shorts
7. Reformation Mila Linen Shorts
What I Like
- elastic waistband
- relaxed fit
- sustainably made
What I Don't Like
- pricey
Reformation
I can’t express enough how much I love linen during the summer. It’s lightweight, breathable and provides the ultimate comfort. These beauties instantly stopped me in my scrolling tracks and I have not stopped thinking about them since. They’re simple but secure, and can be easily styled up or down. Wear these on your next trip to the beach or seaside brunch date.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: 1X to 3X (also available in XS to XL)
- Materials: 100 percent linen
Best Boxer Shorts
What I Like
- machine washable
- fun color options
What I Don't Like
- runs slightly large
- pricey
Djerf Avenue
According to Gen Z, boxer shorts are gearing up to be one of the top fashion trends of the season. I’m all about comfortability, so getting away with wearing glorified undies in public is a win in my book. If you’re not sure how to style boxer shorts, PureWow’s Associate Fashion Editor, Stephanie Meraz, detailed a few ways to style them, plus, her fave picks for the season. Trust me, they won’t give “I’m wearing my boyfriend’s underwear.”
Fast Facts
- Sizing: XXS to 3Xl
- Materials: 100 percent organic cotton
Most Versatile Shorts
9. J.Crew Tropez Short in Linen
What I Like
- fun color options
- breathable
What I Don't Like
- customers say they may look different after washing
J.Crew
J.Crew has an impressive range of extended sizing fashions and their latest summer collection needs to be on more plus-size girlies’ radar. This linen showstopper is one of the brands current best sellers with loads of color options to choose from. One curvy gal raved about these shorts, writing, “I love these shorts!!! Easy pull on while looking polished. Very versatile with a subtle lux sheen to it. Bought it in black and thinking about buying other colors. I'm a curvy bottom girl as well and this worked for me.”
Fast Facts
- Sizing: XXS to 3X (roughly a US 000 to 24)
- Materials: 100 percent linen
Best Shorts to Prevent Thigh Chafing
10. Thigh Society The Cooling Shorts
What I Like
- tons of colors and inseam lengths
- moisture wicking
What I Don't Like
- reportedly can sometimes shift around
Thigh Society
This find is more of a practical pick than a stylish one and was created specifically to prevent thigh chafing. They come in a range of colors and inseam lengths to match whatever your OOTD may be. They’re high on my shopping wishlist this season, after experiencing the worst chub rub. With five stars among almost 10,000 reviews, I was instantly convinced I needed a pair. If you need more persuading, here’s what one customer had to say: “First time user here and was so pleased with this product! I needed the 5XL/6XL—fit beautifully—no riding/rolling up, did not bind, was easy to get on and off. Kept me completely comfortable in my dress during 95 degree, humid weather at an eight-hour outdoor wedding event,” they gush.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: XS/S to 5XL/6XL (rougly a US 2/4 to 28/34)
- Materials: 78 percent Sensil Breeze nylon, 20 percent spandex and 2 percent cotton
Best Trouser Shorts
11. Maeve The Avery Pleated Trouser
What I Like
- tailored style
- roomy, long inseam
What I Don't Like
- reviewers say they have a tendency to wrinkle
Maeve
Say goodbye to baggy jorts, and hello to their slightly polished counterpart—baggy trouser shorts. They were a huge hit among the fashion crowd during Paris Fashion Week, and this pair is perfect for strutting down the cobblestone streets of France—or wherever your live. The shorts have a nearly nine-inch inseam, making it almost impossible for chub rub to happen and they’re an incredibly stylish option to wear in the office. Reviewers rave about their versatility, claiming this piece can be dressed up or down.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: US 16W to 26W
- Materials: linen, viscose and elastane
Most Trendy Shorts
12. ELOQUII Paperbag Drawstring Shorts
What I Like
- drawstring
- easy fit
- machine washable
What I Don't Like
- little to no stretch
Eloquii
In case you missed it, fun prints are trending in fashion again and this summer is all about food. Fruit, tinned fish, pasta, you name it. This funky pair is mix of all the best edible delights, with pops of citrus fruits, veggies and a surprise appearance from…lobsters. Yep—that’s right—lobsters. The crustacean has had its claws in fashion for a hot second, more recently on Schiaparelli runways. And while these shorts weren’t crafted in a French fashion house, they’re still a cute pick to have on your radar. However, if everything but the kitchen sink isn’t your vibe, they also come in two more abstract prints that are a bit more neutral.
Fast Facts
- Sizing: US 14 to 32
- Materials: 100 percent rayon
Best Bermuda Shorts
13. Levi's Classic Bermuda Shorts
What I Like
- stretchy
- frame flattering
What I Don't Like
- front pockets are reportedly shallow
Levi's
While I absolutely loathe the idea of jeans in higher temps, a good pair of jean shorts will always be the exception. Levi’s is no stranger to classic denim—full length or short. This pair of Bermuda classics are praised for their snug (but not too tight) fit and high-quality construction. One Macy’s shopper writes, “Perfect summer fit. I don’t like the skin tight fit. So these shorts fit comfortably enough without looking baggy. It’s the right length, comfortable in the waist, looks good with low heels and flat sandals. Can be dressed up or down, with or without a jacket. After three washes they look and fit like new.”
Fast Facts
- Sizing: US 14 to 26
- Materials: 60 percent cotton, 16 percent polyester, 23 percent EcoVero viscose and 1 percent elastane
