As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, the outdoors starts calling once again. And that can only mean one thing: it’s time to swap out the long pants and jackets for dresses and shorts. If you thought plus-size shorts were limited, think again. This year, many of the top trends, like faux leather and floral prints, are available in plus-size shorts as well.
Whether you prefer the classics and are searching for new plus-size jean shorts to throw on with any and everything, want a pair of athletic shorts for the gym, or want to make a statement in a colorful or printed pair, we have you covered. Take a look at this round-up of 12 of the best and most comfortable plus-size shorts you can buy online right now because your gams deserve to feel kissed by the sun this spring and summer.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Eloquii Printed Linen Shorts
Feel breezy and beautiful in these pastel linen plus-size shorts. The subtle pinks and oranges in the watercolor tie-dye print make it easy to wear during the spring and summer. Make it a matching set by grabbing the Printed Bow Blouse.
Shop Eloquii
Eloquii Printed Linen Shorts, $, available at Eloquii
Good American Better Than Leather Drawstring Shorts
These faux leather shorts are incredibly versatile. Wear them with black tights and chunky boots on chilly nights, then with a cute crop top and platform sandals in warmer months. We love the adjustable drawstring waist and drapey overall fit.
Shop Saks Fifth Avenue
Good American Better Than Leather Drawstring Shorts, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Lane Bryant Signature Fit Jean Short
Does it get better than a comfy pair of plus-size jean shorts in a playful pink hue? The shorter hem of these shorts, along with the fitted silhouette, make them the perfect summer pair. If you prefer a more relaxed fit, just size up.
Shop Lane Bryant
Lane Bryant Signature Fit Jean Short, $, available at Lane Bryant
Superfit Hero Pocket Bike Shorts
Superfit Hero makes athleticwear accessible for plus-size people. They are incredibly inclusive, with their sizing going up to 44 (or a 7X). We particularly love these bike shorts for their compression (great for running and hiking) and, of course, the pockets! They are deep on both sides, so you won’t have to worry about your phone or other personal items falling out while you are on the move.
Shop Superfit Hero
Superfit Hero Pocket Bike Shorts, $, available at Superfit Hero
Torrid 8 Inch Bombshell Premium Stretch High-Rise Short
You honestly can’t go wrong with a classic blue denim short. These plus-size jean shorts hug your curves beautifully with an 8-inch inseam. Made with lots of stretch, they are great for all-day wear.
Shop Torrid
Torrid 8 Inch Bombshell Premium Stretch High-Rise Short, $, available at Torrid
ASOS Design Curve Linen Paperbag Waist Suit Shorts
This beautiful linen short features a paper bag waist. Wear it with the matching suit jacket, or rock it solo. The pleats on the front of the shorts give it structure, but not too much that it feels too stuffy or formal. The oversized belt and lavender color add playfulness to the shorts, making this perfect for spring festivities.
Shop ASOS
ASOS DESIGN Curve Linen Paperbag Waist Suit Shorts, $, available at ASOS
Karen Scott Plus Size Cotton Emelia Pull-On Shorts
These pull-on shorts come in various colors, but our pick is the outdoorsy olive green option. The longer inseam on these sporty shorts makes them an excellent choice for wearing on hikes, biking, and hanging out at the beach. They are also 100% cotton and breathable for the hot summer.
Shop Macy’s
Karen Scott Plus Size Cotton Emelia Pull-On Shorts, $, available at Macy’s
Ava & Viv Plus Size Mid-Rise Jean Shorts
When it comes to affordable plus-size denim, Target is a definite go-to. These Ava & Viv shorts come in an eye-popping bright orange, as well as the more traditional blue jean washes, and go up to a size 30W. Unfortunately, you won’t find this in-store; they are only online. But for under $20, you can’t beat it!
Shop Target
Ava & Viv Plus Size Mid-Rise Jean Shorts, $, available at Target
Rue21 Plus White Rhinestone Fringe Festival Shorts
Be ready for all the spring and summer outdoor festivals with these white denim shorts. They have rhinestone embellishments on both front pockets and sides, so you can shimmy all day and night while shining bright like a diamond.
Shop Rue21
Rue21 Plus White Rhinestone Fringe Festival Shorts, $, available at Rue21
NYDJ Plus Size Kristie ’80s Bermuda Denim Shorts
Throw it back with these ’80s-inspired denim Bermuda shorts. If you are looking for a longer pair of shorts, these hit right below the knee, giving your legs room to breathe while allowing for extra coverage. In addition, the brand uses eco-friendly methods to reduce waste during production.
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NYDJ Plus Size Kristie ’80s Bermuda Denim Shorts, $, available at NYDJ
Tamara Malas Petunia Short
The Petunia shorts are made to pair with the brand’s Cara dresses but can be worn (and are sold) separately. The slow fashion brand is dedicated to inclusivity (it currently carries sizes 2-36 and plans to extend its size range soon) and sustainability (it partnered with Greenspark to plant one tree for every order sold.)
Shop Tamara Malas
Tamara Malas Petunia Short, $, available at Tamara Malas
H&M DryMove™ Double-Layered Running Shorts
Keep your cool while you run with these double-layered shorts from H&M. Made with moisture-wicking fabric and layer over jersey leggings to prevent friction, the shorts will help wick away sweat. They also have mesh panels for extra ventilation and reflective detailing to keep you safe during night runs and walks.
Shop H&M
H&M DryMove™ Double-Layered Running Shorts, $, available at H&M
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