The Search for Non-Riding-Up Jean Shorts Ends Here

1 month ago 17

Shop Best Jean Shorts Update_1024x759.jpgE! illustration/Photos Courtesy of A&F, Good American

Shopping for jean shorts when you have thick thighs and curves can quickly turn into a frustrating dressing-room experience.

Between waistbands that gap, tight leg openings, and denim that rides up after five minutes of walking, finding a pair that actually feels good is easier said than done. But with summer officially around the corner, now’s the time to upgrade your warm-weather wardrobe with jean shorts that are equal parts comfortable and flattering.

The secret to finding the best denim shorts for curvy women often comes down to fit and inseam length. Shorter 3-inch inseams create that classic cutoff feel, while 5- and 7-inch styles offer more coverage and help minimize chafing—a major plus during hot summer days. Longer Bermuda shorts with 11-inch inseams are also trending right now and give off a chic and effortless vibe.

Whether you prefer relaxed baggy denim shorts, stretchy high-rise styles, or vintage-inspired cutoffs, there’s finally a pair out there that works with your curves instead of against them.

Ahead, discover the best jean shorts for thick thighs that stay comfortable, flattering, and easy to wear all season long.

Best Jean Shorts for Thick Thighs:

Abercrombie Curve Love High Rise Dad Short

These high rise dad shorts from Abercrombie's beloved Curve Love line are TikTok famous for a reason. They have a 5-inch inseam with extra space in the hips and thighs to eliminate the dreadful gap. Plus, they've got some stretch.

Old Navy Curvy High-Waisted OG Jean Shorts

Leave it to Old Navy to create a comfy pair of cutoff denim shorts. They have a gap-free waistband, 4-inch inseam, and a relaxed fit along the thighs with plenty of stretch. Choose from four washes.

Good American Good 90s Shorts

A relaxed leg and raw hem give these Bermuda shorts that cool, off-duty ’90s feel everyone’s after right now. The rigid denim offers structure, movement, and shape retention that lasts beyond one season.

Abercrombie Curve Love Low Rise Baggy Short

Another option from Abercrombie's popular Curve Love line, these shorts have a 4-inch inseam and an extra two inches around the hips and thighs for a relaxed fit that won't cause gaping. The distressed details are an edgy touch.

Madewell The Curvy Perfect Vintage Mid-Length Jean Short

These shorts are perfect if you want a more upscale look. They have Magic Pockets™ that hold you in and a contoured waistband for gap-free wear. The 5-inch inseam keeps your booty covered while a hint of stretch and extra space around the hips and thighs make them super comfy.

Eloquii City Shorts

These ultra-distressed bermuda shorts are so on trend. The 11-inch inseam is great if you want a little more thigh coverage but still want to show off your legs. Keep in mind that they don't have much stretch, so sizing up might provide a more comfortable fit.

Levi’s Mid Length Women's Shorts (Plus Size)

These slim-fit, mid-length shorts with a cuff detail will never go out of style. The 7-inch inseam is perfect for preventing chafing, while a hint of stretch makes them comfortable for all-day wear. Choose from three washes.

Good American Good Standard Long Shorts

If tiny denim shorts aren’t your thing, these longer shorts from Good American offer a more wearable fit. They’re stretchy, smoothing, and curve-friendly.

Levi's Womens 501 Mid Thigh Shorts

These summer-ready shorts from Levi’s pair a flattering high-rise waist with comfortable mid-thigh coverage. Choose from distressed washes or cleaner hems depending on your vibe.

Looking for more? We found the trendiest denim colors to wear instead of blue jeans.

How We Choose

The E! Insider Shop editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews, and use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.

As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think our readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not E!. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.