We've all been there, you're debuting your latest fashion purchase - a brand spanking new pair of denim shorts - when you start to feel the fabric riding its way up your thighs and, whoop, your bum is on display to the masses.
It's the worst.
We're this 👌 close to suing all the companies whose shorts have left us in the lurch and, what with this heatwave weather, we've decided enough is enough.
We've set out on an epic mission, one no man has attempted before (well, we haven't actually checked). That's right, we've taken on the mammoth task of...
Finding all the actually comfy summer shorts for your best hot girl summer yet.
You are welcome.
From floaty cute shorts, to 30 degree appropriate linen shorts and, of course, your classic denim numbers, these are all the summer shorts for 2021 that WON'T leave you with your full 🍑.
Happy shopping!
CHECK OUT: The best summer shorts for comfort and style
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Best comfy summer shorts
Paperbag denim shorts
If Mango isn't one of your go-tos for summer clothing then you're doing it wrong. Paper bag shorts may be so 2019 but we're still obsessed with them and you should be too. These black denim ones give off a bit more of a tidy vibe with the fold up hem (ideal for the office if you pair them with a pair of smart shoes) and the couple of inches of fabric below the crotch area will prevent that disastrous wedgie much better than a short short pair with a frayed hem - you know the ones. Plus, they're made with 100 per cent sustainable cotton. A win, win, win.
Linen-blend shorts, high waist
Linen shorts are a dream on a hot balmy day and this pair from H&M are no exception. They're loose and floaty (aka won't disappear when you sit down), they're a gorgeous neutral beige and will go with practically your entire wardrobe, AND they're averaging a 4.6/5 star review on the H&M website. That sounds pretty good to us, but if you don't believe us, check out this glowing review:"These are perfect if you don't like the top of your legs like me! I sized up to a medium for extra length and to make sure they were loose and they fit round my legs perfectly! The drawstring waist meant they weren't too big for my waist either."
Red co ord multi stripe retro denim mom shorts
We have been seeing Bermuda shorts EVERYWHERE this summer so, naturally, we just had to get our hands on a pair. These ones from Missguided are just a little but longer than your usual short shorts and are a foolproof way to avoid that dreaded denim wedgie. We can't get enough of the punchy pattern and, ngl, we'll probably buy the matching co-ord top and jacket, too.Made from 100 per cent cotton, these shorts are made to last and for £25 we're absolutely not complaining.
Stradivarius slim mom denim short in light wash
This pick comes direct from shopping editor Aimee Jakes and all we can say is THANK YOU. £12.75 for these dreamy summer shorts? We're sold. Perfect for women with a ud83cudf51 bum and a clinched waist, these shorts will keep your booty concealed (but lookin' damn good) and, according to one review, "the waist sits in the perfect spot."You'd better move fast, though - these bargain bad boys are selling out quick!
Green soft frill shorts
Suitable for a BBQ? Check. Suitable for the post-BBQ bloat? Check. Wedgie-proof? Check check. These might be the perfect pair of summer shorts...Seriously, from the silky, err sweat-friendly (let's just be real, ok) fabric, to the perfectly situated waist tie, to the elasticated waist at the back - everything about these shorts screams comfort and style. Plus, they're so versatile. Did somebody say work-to-night-out look?
Black woven split front tailored shorts
Do you know what the problem with most shorts is? The fact that they don't account for your weight distributing up the thigh when you sit down. Hence: wedgie-gate. The solution? Split front shorts ud83dudc4f. These shorts are selling out fast and we are absolutely not surprised. They're a bargain £20, they've got a belt loop for all your clinched waist needs and they're available in the two most easy-to-pair colours, like, ever? We'll be buying them for our whole friend group, ok?
Topshop Millie pull on denim short in bleach
The worst thing about wearing shorts to the beach is that inevitable struggle to get them back on after you've been in the sea. Enter...pull on denim shorts. Yep, say goodbye to the stiff denim waistband and say hello to a gloriously comfortable elasticated waist. Thank you, Topshop for bringing us this wondrous piece - a new staple in our wardrobe, tbh. The lighter fabric will help with chafing, it'll prevent that awful ride-up, not to mention it'll just be cooler on your skin. We're sold.
Blue Stripe Shirred High Waist Shorts
Speaking of lighter fabrics, say hello to these positively feather-light pinstripe shorts from New Look. They'll be light on your thighs and your wallet at £12.99 and we're loving the slightly thicker waistband (perrrfect for tummy support).The balloon-style leg cut will eliminate any hint of wedgie and the soft cotton material will keep you cool, too (AND they'll wash like a dream).
White co ord tie dye floaty denim shorts
The floaty short trend is blowing up right now and about bloody time. The days of low-rise teeny denim numbers are behind us are the days of floaty, wide leg high-waisted DREAMS are here. The tie dye addition on these Missguided shorts is a welcome addition and, for £25, we'll probably add the matching jacket to our baskets, too.
Blue Floral Soft Crinkle Beach Shorts
Crinkle shorts are probably the one of the most foolproof ways to avoid a short wedgie. They're soft on your skin, they stretch to your needs and, with these cute ones from UO, you'll get a bit of added tummy control in the thicker elasticated waistband. What's more, these are bonafide short shorts - because who says non-wedgie shorts have to be long? Get the tops of your thighs out, ladies ud83dudc40.
White Roll Up Hem Mom Shorts
Everybody loves white shorts in summer, so we've put a couple of 'em to the test to find the ULTIMATE comfy pair. After much searching, we've come to conclusion that these bargain ones from I Saw It First are the dreamy answer to all your summer wedgie problems and here's why:1- The roll up hem keeps the length from riding up your, erm, bum.2- The Mom-style fit means there's a bit of extra fabric around your hips for when you sit down BUT your waist will remain clinched and lookin' fiiine.3- Finally, if you size up (like we did), and add a belt, you'll have a little extra wiggle room for pizza etc. etc. and, let's be honest, denim shrinks in the wash.
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What to buy from H&M new in, according to the heat style team
Now that you've got your godsend pair of shorts (or should we say pairs 👀), you're going to need some tops, sandals, jewellery - the whole shebang, to be quite honest.
Might we suggest you start with Queen Olivia Attwood's new collection with I Saw It First? With everything from crop tops to bodysuits, we'd be surprised if you didn't find at least one thing you liked from this babein' selection.
Failing that, we'll direct you to our round up of Madison Beer outfits. We've pulled together all the best high-street dupes - because who can afford designer these days? - for all of Madison's best looks and, tbh, you're debit card is going to HATE you. Buuut, your wardrobe will love you so who's the real winner?
Enjoy 👋.
How to wear long shorts in summer
The age old question. Well, maybe not age old, but however old the Bermuda short trend is...
Our top tip? If you're wearing something slightly longer or baggier on top, try and pair it with something a tad tighter - or even just cropped - on top.
Think Bermuda shorts and a cropped strappy cami or, if you're not tummy confident, try a fitted bodysuit instead.