The 14 Best Plus-Size Shorts to Get You Through Summer’s Heat in Style

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 our heart (and an entire section of our closet), some days we just can’t be bothered to deal with any thigh chafing. Which is why stylish shorts are such a summertime savior. Here are 14 pairs that plus-size ladies can—and should—wear from now until Labor Day. And maybe a few weeks after that too.

RELATED: These Are the 6 Prints You Should Be Wearing This Summer

1. Athleta Brooklyn Short

This sporty pair has a four-inch inseam and pockets on the front and back. Pair with a casual tee and your favorite white sneaks.

Buy It ($59)

^{Available in sizes XXS to 3X}

2. Good American Bombshell Cutoff Denim Shorts

Finally, shorts that contour curves without leaving a gap in the waistband.

Buy It ($119)

^{Available in sizes 00 to 15}

3. NYDJ Bermuda Shorts

We’re particularly big fans of the smooth cotton fabric on these straight-leg Bermudas (but don’t worry, the pockets are big enough to hold your essentials).

Buy it ($69)

^{Available in sizes 14 to 28}

4. Summersalt The Effortless Shorts

Sure, you can wear these as a pool-side coverup with one of Summersalt’s adorable swimsuits, but we’re not opposed to sporting them out on the town—with a breezy button-down and flat sandals—for some post-pool drinks as well.

Buy it ($65)

^{Available in sizes XS to 2X}

5. Madewell Relaxed Denim Shorts

Loose denim isn't just trendy, it's super comfortable and will keep you cool in the heat. To keep the silhouette flattering, pair these babies with a tighter-fitting tee or a looser top half-tucked in.

Buy It ($75)

^{Available in sizes 14W to 18W}

6. Torrid Mid Rise Midi Short

We all need a pair of go-to shorts and these ones will hug your curves perfectly.

Buy It ($46; $34)

^{Available in sizes 10 to 30}

7. Nike Sportswear Eseential Bike Short

Nobody does cute and sporty like Nike. These bike shorts are flattering on all shapes and can be used for workouts or athleisure.

Buy It ($35)

^{Available in sizes 1X to 3X}

8. Levi's 501 Original Women's Short

This classic short would look sleek with a basic white tee and sneakers. Plus, the raw hem and mom-fit is a top trend right now.

Buy It ($70; $31)

^{Available in sizes 14 to 24}

9. L.L.Bean Original Sunwashed Shorts

These lightweight shorts have the same versatility as your favorite jeans or cut-offs but with oh so much more breathability and movement.

Buy it ($46)

^{Available in sizes 1X to 3X}

10. Torrid SELF TIE MID SHORT

Vertical stripes help make your legs look Ashley Graham-level long—even if you're just wearing Birkenstocks.

Buy it ($50; $7)

^{Available in sizes 10 to 30}

11. L.L.Bean Wrinkle-Free Bayside Shorts

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 you’ll stay wrinkle-free all day long? Even if that day is mostly spent running after small children.

Buy it ($45)

^{Available in sizes 18 to 26}

12. Ava & Viv Tie-Dye Shorts

Comfy shorts to throw on to run some errands or watch a movie are a necessity. This pastel tie-dye is summery and stylish.

Buy It ($15)

^{Available in sizes 1X to 4X}

13. Allegrace High Waist Denim Shorts

If you prefer a folded hem, these shorts are a great option. They have a longer inseam and are high waisted if you want more coverage.

$26 at Amazon

^{Available in sizes 12 to 26.}

14. Khaki PLT Badge Sweat Shorts

The elastic waistband makes this pair ultra comfortable. These fashionable shorts will be your new favorites for the season and they come in two colors. We'd wear ours with a white T-shirt and sneakers, but bring along a matching sweatshirt for when temps drop at night.

Buy It ($30; $20)

^{Available in sizes 1X to 5X}

RELATED: 12 Sandals with Arch Support (That Aren't Birkenstocks)

PureWow may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from PureWow's editorial and sales departments.