The Short Short Version
- Plus size shorts are available in five main styles: denim, biker, linen/lightweight, athletic, and Bermuda, each serving a unique purpose.
- Chub rub is a physics issue rather than a body issue; longer inseams, anti-chafe products, and slip shorts are effective solutions.
- Fabric choice is crucial; moisture-wicking blends, linen, and cotton-spandex mixes offer the best comfort during summer heat.
- Top brands for plus size shorts include Torrid, Universal Standard, Good American, Eloquii, Lane Bryant, ASOS Curve, Old Navy, and Target.
- Shorts can be styled for any occasion, from casual errands to elevated brunches or beach days.
Shopping for plus size shorts shouldn’t be this challenging. Yet every summer, we find ourselves sifting through options that are either too short or poorly designed. The struggle is real, but so is the improvement.
The reality is that the options have significantly improved. Brands are finally recognizing that plus size bodies deserve shorts that fit well and flatter without hiding anything. This season’s offerings are worth your time and investment.
Whether you prefer denim, linen, or biker shorts, we’ve compiled the best plus size shorts across various styles and sizes. Everyone deserves a hot girl summer—no exceptions.
Types of Plus Size Shorts That Actually Deliver
Not all shorts are created equal. Understanding which style suits your vibe (and body) can simplify your shopping experience.
Denim Shorts
The classic staple that pairs well with almost everything in your wardrobe. Denim shorts come in various lengths—short, mid-thigh, Bermuda—and the right pair can transition seamlessly from brunch to beach.
Look for styles with built-in stretch; pure cotton denim may feel great initially but can become restrictive after a few hours. A denim-spandex blend keeps things breathable and allows for movement throughout the day.
Biker Shorts
Biker shorts have evolved from gym essentials to street style icons. They provide coverage and compression while allowing you to stay comfortable in hot weather without compromising on style.
Style them with an oversized tee or a fitted blazer for a chic look. Confidence combined with a secure waistband is key.
Linen and Lightweight Shorts
Linen shorts are ideal for those prioritizing comfort in high humidity. They offer a relaxed fit and a breezy feel that makes you look effortlessly put together.
Keep in mind that linen wrinkles easily; embrace it as part of the aesthetic.
Athletic and Performance Shorts
Athletic shorts differ from biker shorts in their design; they are typically loose-fitting with technical fabrics that wick sweat and dry quickly. Many feature built-in liners for added coverage during active pursuits.
These are perfect for running or hiking—functionality is paramount here, and quality options excel at this task.
Bermuda and Longer Inseam Shorts
Bermuda shorts typically hit just above the knee—an ideal length for many plus size bodies. They are polished enough for casual office settings yet comfortable enough for weekend wear. The longer inseam also reduces chafing.
Let’s Talk Chub Rub (Because Pretending It Doesn’t Exist Helps Nobody)
Thigh chafing isn’t your fault; it’s a physics problem involving skin-on-skin contact combined with heat and movement. The solution lies in strategy rather than shrinking yourself.
Longer Inseams Are Your Best Friend
A longer inseam reduces skin-on-skin contact; a length of 7 inches or more can mean the difference between comfort and irritation. Know your ideal inseam length for maximum comfort.
Anti-Chafe Products Are Not Gimmicks
Products like U.B.B., Body Glide, Monistat Chafing Relief Powder Gel, and Megababe Thigh Rescue effectively create a barrier against friction. Apply before dressing and reapply as needed to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Slip Shorts and Thigh Bands
Slip shorts can be worn under regular shorts or skirts to provide protection against chafing. Silicone thigh bands or Bandelettes sit directly on your thighs to achieve the same effect with less bulk. Both options are effective; choose what feels best for you.
Fabric Choices Matter More Than You Think
Cotton absorbs moisture which can increase friction; moisture-wicking synthetic blends keep you drier and reduce chafing risk. If opting for cotton shorts, ensure they fit correctly and consider layering with slip shorts underneath for added comfort.
Materials That Keep You Cool All Summer Long
The right fabric is essential when selecting plus size shorts; choosing poorly can lead to discomfort even before you leave home.
Cotton Blends
Cotton blends offer softness and breathability while providing some stretch and shape retention—combining comfort with functionality.
Linen
Linen allows maximum airflow while providing minimal structure; it keeps you cooler than many other fabrics despite its tendency to wrinkle easily.
Performance and Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
Blends of polyester, nylon, and spandex designed for activewear effectively pull sweat away from your skin while drying quickly—ideal for workouts or hot summer days.
Tencel and Modal
Sustainable plant-based fibers like Tencel and modal feel luxurious against your skin while keeping you cool without overheating—a welcome addition to many plus size lines lately.
Where to Find the Best Plus Size Shorts Right Now
The following brands are leading the way in providing stylish options—bookmark them!
Torrid
Torrid offers denim shorts in various inseams and washes along with linen and performance styles up to size 6X.
Universal Standard
This brand features clean lines and quality fabrics across an inclusive size range from sizes 00 to 40. Their shorts are minimalistic yet durable enough to last beyond one season.
Old Navy
Curvy High-Waisted OG Jean Cut-Off Shorts —4-inch inseam at OldNavy.Gap .comOld Navy provides affordable plus size options including denim and activewear styles up to size 4X—perfect when you want variety without extensive shopping trips.
Lane Bryant
Lane Bryant offers denim shorts in various rises and lengths along with casual options up to sizes38 /40 . Their fits are reliable ,and they frequently hold sales worth checking out .
ASOS Curve
ASOS DESIGN Curve Ipanema sheer linen look beach shorts in natural at ASOS . com
ASOS Curve offers trendy styles at mid-range prices including denim ,cargo ,paperbag-waist ,and tailored shorts up to sizes26 . Ideal when you want to try new styles without committing fully .
Eloquii
Eloquii provides elevated basics along with statement pieces ranging from sizes14to28. Their designs prioritize both polishand comfort—a valuable combination.
Bloomchic
For trend-forward styles at affordable prices , BloomChic is worth checking out . They offer sizes10to30with cuts specifically designedforplus size frames rather than scaled-up straight sizes. Most pieces fall within an affordable range ,and they frequently run seasonal sales which makes experimenting less risky . Consider sizing up if you’re between sizes ,and always check theirsize chart before ordering .
City Chic Online
An Australian brand dedicated solelyto plus size bodies rather than simply extending straight sizes.City Chic’s designs lean fashion-forward featuring denim ,linen,and casual styles that exude personality.Sizes range from12to26with fits tailored specificallyfor curves from inception.
Good American
Good American specializesin premium denim with significant stretch designedto fit curves without gaping at the waistor pulling across thighs.Sizes rangefrom00to30.
How to Style Plus Size Shortsfor Any Occasion
Shorts present an opportunityfor full outfits.Here’s howto style themfor various vibes.
Casualand Effortless
Pair denimshortswitha tucked or half-tucked tee alongwith sneakers or sandals.Adda crossbody bagandsunglasses—that’s it! You’ve got an outfit!
Elevatedand Polished
Combine tailoredBermudashortswitha button-downor relaxed blousealongwith loafersormules.Adda structured toteandsimplejewelryfor brunch,farmers marketor casual Friday energy nailed!
AthleisureDone Right
Style biker shortsofcottonsweatswithan oversized hoodieor cropped sportsbraboth pairedwithchunky sneakers.Addabelt bagacrossyour body—that’sa complete look! Anyone who disagrees is mistaken!
Beachyand Relaxed
Linen shortspairedwitha tankor braletteandslide sandals.Layeron alightweight kimonoor openbutton-downfor extra coverage.Keepjewelryminimalandletfabricshine!
Night Out Energy
ARRANGE Curve embroidered cutworkshorts in white–partofasetatASOS.com
Optfor faux leatherorsatin shortspairedwithabodysuitorfitted topalongside heeled sandalsor boots.Addaclutchandboldlip—shortscan definitely gooutafterdark!Don’t let anyone tellyou otherwise!
A Few More Styling Notes Worth Knowing
The Hem Notes
Plus sizeshortsarenotacompromise—they’reasummerwardrobeessentialthatallowsyou to existcomfortablyinheat.Findstyles thatworkforyourbody.Investinanti-chafesolutions thatactuallyhelp.Stoppologizingfortakingupspaceinshorts—youdeservecoolnessandconfidenceallsummer long!
Now go forthand short!
The Fitting Room: Your Questions Answered
Biker shortsandlongerinseamstyles(7inchesormore)areyourbestoptionsforcoverageandcomfort.For denim,optforrelaxedorwide-legcutswithbuilt-instretch;rigiddenimcanpullorbunchatthighs.BrandslikeTorridandGoodAmericanaredesignedwiththisinmind!
Athree-prongedapproach:choosealongerinseamapplyananti-chafeproductlikeU.B.B.StickbyPrettiMuch,MegababeThighRescueorBodyGlidebeforegettingdressed,andconsiderwearingslipshortsunderneath.Anyoneofthesehelps—allthree together?Gameoverfriction—youlose!
Itdependsonyourpreferenceandoccasion,but5to7incheshitsasweetspotformostpeople.Athree-inchinseamisontheshortersideworksbestforloungingorthebeach.A9-inchorBermudalengthinseamisidealifyouwantmorecoverageorapolishedlook.Whenindoubt,sizeuponinseam—youcanalwayscuffalongershortbutcan’taddfabricback!
