Top 10 Black Denim Shorts

LOVED FOR: With their four-inch inseam and flattering high-rise, these are ultra-sexy without being too short.

FUN FACT: These shorts are part of Gap's Washwell program, which has saved millions of liters of water since 2016.

WHAT IT DOES: On top of the soft, stretchy denim and waist-nipping rise, these beauties come with Old Navy's secret-slim pockets that hold you in for a slimming effect.

HELPFUL TIP: Reviewers say these run small, so we recommend sizing up for the best fit.

WHY YOU NEED IT: The washed black shade, frayed hem, and 100% cotton denim make these shorts look like a rare vintage find—no thrift stores required.

USERS SAID: "I’m a jean short lover and these are legit. I have worn them nonstop since they arrived with casual t-shirts and button-ups for online meetings. Cute, but not overdone on the distressing and no stretch. Comfy and make the bum look good!"

LOVED FOR: With their vintage black wash and slightly loose fit, these shorts totally master sexy but slouchy. Even better? They come with Madewell's Magic Pockets for a holds-you-in fit.

FUN FACT: For each pair of shorts made at the Fair Trade Certified Hoi Meng China factory, Madewell contributes to a Community Development Fund managed by the workers.

BEST FOR: Curvy girls, rejoice. These genius denim shorts are designed to fit your bod without gapping at the waist, and the soft and stretchy denim won't ever lose its shape.

STYLE WITH: These inky black shorts are begging for a cool graphic tee and white sneakers.

USERS SAID: "These are my new go-to jean shorts. They are super comfy as they have a lot of stretch, but they still hold their shape after hours of wearing. The waistline hits me right at the belly button, making tucked-in t-shirts and crop tops look great.

HELPFUL TIP: Tired of spending your quarantine in sweatpants? Try these cute shorts instead. They're just as cozy but a lot more put-together.

BEST FOR: If you want to rock the mom short trend without getting a gap at the waist, try these. They're designed with the same old-school fit, but the contoured rise means no extra room to deal with.

USERS SAID: "This is the only pair of shorts I've been able to find all summer that is super flattering!!! I love that they are high wasted, and they totally nail the 'mom' style. I probably ordered a size too big, but they still fit and look great on. Will definitely be ordering more in different colors. Lots of stretch and super comfy!"

BEST FOR: Love it or hate it, Bermudas are back and better than ever. If you're looking to ease into the trend, start with these Everlane beauties. They're slightly longer and looser than your average cutoffs, and you can wear them cuffed if you feel like switching things up.

STYLE WITH: We'll be wearing these with a white tee all season long.

WHY YOU NEED IT: Ask any Rank & Style staff member about their favorite pair of denim shorts—it's probably these. From the lived-in wash to the perfect distressing, the Parker short is the secret to scoring the vintage look without having to sift through a single rack at Goodwill.

USERS SAID: "These shorts were my summer uniform last year... I barely took them off! Perfect high rise. Still has enough length that your cheeks aren't hanging out, but they aren't frumpy. Distressing and coloring is perfect. You won't regret buying these!"  

LOVED FOR: It doesn't get any more classic than Levi's 501s. From the affordable price to the flattering rise to the 100% cotton denim, you simply can't go wrong.

HELPFUL TIP: Since these are made with rigid denim, we recommend grabbing the smallest size you can. They'll stretch to a perfect-for-you fit after a few wears and washes.