Searching for the perfect pair of shorts can feel like a daunting task, but fear not! I have updated my post on the best shorts for curvy women for 2024.
*Note: This post was updated on May 11, 2024*
Here are the best shorts for curvy women that will make you look and feel amazing.
Whether you’re strolling along the beach, running errands, or simply lounging around, this comprehensive list covers everything.
Why focus on curvy women, you ask? Well, it’s no secret that the fashion industry has long overlooked the diverse body types that exist, leaving many women feeling left out. And let’s be real–it’s harder for certain body types to wear shorts. For many years, I didn’t own a single pair of shorts. Even now, my collection of shorts is quite small. All the riding up! Waistbands that are physically painful! So, I get it.
Note, that I’m using the definition of curvy to mean hourglass and pear-shaped women as well as plus-size ladies. If there is a significant difference between your waist and hip measurements, this post is for you.
What’s in this post?
In this list, you’ll find a wide range of shorts to suit different occasions and style preferences. I’m featuring:
- Classic denim shorts that never go out of fashion
- Comfy lounge shorts perfect for relaxation
- Athletic shorts for your active pursuits
- Other great shorts, like linen, utility, and trendier finds
On this list, there’s something for everyone. Quality fabrics, impeccable fit, and style versatility were top considerations when curating this selection. I want to ensure you’ll find shorts that not only look fantastic but feel great too.
So, let’s dive into the list of the 19 best shorts for curvy women. As a fashion stylist and personal shopper, I’m excited to share my expertise and personal experiences to help you navigate the world of flattering shorts.
Get ready to embrace the summer season with style, comfort, and a whole lot of confidence!
Best Denim Shorts for Curvy Women
Denim shorts can look great on curvy women. It’s all about finding the perfect fit. I recommend finding shorts the curve in at the top. The waistband should be smaller than the hem. Think of an “A” shape instead of an “H”.
Levi’s 501 Original Denim Shorts in Vague Finish
These are very high-waisted with ample leg room. Hourglass or pear-shaped women may need a belt. These are true to size.
7 for all mankind Tailored Slouchy Denim Shorts
Tailored shorts look nice on most body types. The nice thing about these is the step hem. They’re longer in the back than the front.
Bella Dahl Chambray Utility Shorts
I adore these supersoft utility shorts for curvy women. This style of shorts can be particularly flattering on curvy ladies. They run true to size.
Universal Standard Bae Denim Shorts
Sometimes a girl just wants to leave her upper thighs to the imagination. Or, she needs extra sun protection. For those who don’t like showing their entire leg, these Universal Standard denim shorts are a modest pick that doesn’t feel too matronly. I prefer the distressed indigo colorway.
NYDJ Roll Cuff Denim Shorts
Here’s another pick for women who like their shorts on the longer side. This style from NYDJ stretches out quite a bit, so size down. Get them at Nordstrom or Zappos. The plus-size version is here.
Best Lounge Shorts for Curvy Women
Looking for the best shorts for curvy women to lounge in at home? Check out these cozy options.
Cozy Earth Women’s Ultra Soft Bamboo Jogger Short
These shorts from Cozy Earth are an absolute dream. Made with viscose from bamboo, they’re incredibly soft and keep you cool. These are lounge shorts, meant to be worn at home. They can also be your new favorite pajamas, as a matching tank is available.
Lululemon Softstreme High Rise Short
These shorts from Lululemon have an adjustable high-rise waistband, making them ideal for curvy women. Skip the pastel shades as they pill and fade quickly. Get the black in your normal size–and do not put these in the dryer. Ever. This applies to anything you purchase from Lululemon.
Best Athletic Shorts for Curvy Women
These shorts are comfortable enough for all of your adventures. Whether you’re hitting the gym, hiking, or strolling the beach, you’ll look and feel great.
For Athletic Shorts, I’ve heard good things about CVG’s shorts in 5 and 7-inch varieties for those with thick thighs. They have a silicone band at the hem to keep shorts from riding up.
I haven’t personally explored them yet. If you do, let me know how it goes.
The Brooks Running Chase 5-inch shorts are also very popular.
Athleta Trekkie North Short
This short from Athleta is one of the best shorts for big thighs and large bums. They’re available in sizes 0-26 at Athleta and REI. I love these for working out, running errands, or just hanging out at home.
Girlfriend High Rise Bike Short
Fortunately, most people can wear bike shorts comfortably. These have a great high rise. These can be worn at home, at the gym, or in a fashion-forward athleisure look. Currently, there are a lot of elevated neutral colors available like cocoa brown, khaki green, and eggplant.
Baleaf Bike Shorts
These Baleaf shorts are great for curvy women. They don’t shrink and they’ve got functional pockets large enough for your phone. I own these myself. I’ve bought multiple pairs as my size has changed throughout the past year. The best part? They’re inexpensive and the black never fades. They’re available at Baleaf.
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Bike Shorts
If you haven’t tried Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye fabric, you’re missing out! It’s the most delicious, soft material. They’re not a chore to put on like many other compression fabrics. The softness is unrivaled. These are great for yoga, hiking, or just lounging around.
Vuori Shorts
More Great Shorts for Curvy Women
Luckily, there are still a few great shorts left on my list.
FARM Rio Wonderful Bouquet Linen Shorts
These shorts are incredibly comfortable, hide a tummy, and come in an incredibly fun pattern. If you’re bigger on the bottom, with a smaller bust, most of Farm Rio’s clothing will suit you well.
Athleta Brooklyn Skirt
Yes, this is technically a skirt and not a pair of shorts. But, it’s too good to leave off this list. It runs true to size, has pockets, and it’s super comfortable.
Aday Ease in Paperbag Shorts
Are you a taller curvy woman? I’ve finally found a pair of linen shorts that work for my clients who are over 5’9”! I recommend the black since the white is tragically see-through.
Paige Brooklyn High Waist Utility Shorts
It’s tough to make utility shorts look hot, but Paige did it. These are bizarrely flattering. Try your normal size and one size down. They’re available at Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and Paige in sizes 23-34.
Final Notes on the Best Shorts for Curvy Women
Note: As I come across more flattering shorts for shapely women in my shopping adventures, I will add them to this post. Check back for more fabulous finds.
Have you found any fabulous shorts for curvy women lately? Let me know in the comments.
