10 stylish & comfortable shorts that don’t require a bikini wax to wear

If you’re just learning that Spanx offers more than underwear and leggings, welcome! Now you never have to wear pants with buttons again! These comfortable but classy pull-on shorts are made from a butter-soft stretchy twill with a smooth, flat front that doesn’t bag out after you sit down for too long. (No thank you on that wrinkly crotch look.) They’re garment dyed which means the color is slightly faded and will wear over time, so wash them inside out to preserve the look you love!

Inseam length: 4 inches

Available in sizes XS-XL

The stylish and versatile Brooklyn Short from Athleta can go anywhere the wind takes you. Sure, they’re made from a quick-dry fabric that you can pull on over your damp suit, but the casual, cool cut looks good even when you’re not poolside. They’ve got a wide, flat waistband that doesn’t roll down and even have pockets for your essentials. From hikes to tennis to cheering on your kids’ soccer practice, they’re a spring and summer staple!

Inseam length: 4 inches Regular/Plus, 5 inches Tall

You may not be headed out on safari, but with these shorts you can be ready for any adventurous plans that crop up. (Brunch mimosas count.) The longer inseam feels sophisticated without being frumpy while a looser fit through the butt and thighs keeps them from riding up. Made from Duer’s proprietary Live Lite fabric–a blend of cotton and eucalyptus-derived TENCEL, they’re not only super breathable, they’re also naturally odor-neutralizing and moisture-resistant as well. Shorts that don’t feel swampy by noon? Yes please.

Inseam length: 5 inch

Available in sizes 24-33 in

Listen, when it’s as hot as the surface of the sun, linen is the way to go. And if you want a pair of shorts you can fall in love with and then purchase in every color, these are it. From the impressively sustainable and oh-so-affordable Quince, these comfy shorts are soft and lightweight and perfect for travel. They available in five neutral colors and look great with anything from sneakers and tees to button downs and strappy sandals.

Inseam length: 3.25 inches

Gap does denim right and if I had to pick a favorite this season, these would be it. The whisper fade and just-right level of destruction brings all the vintage lived-in vibes while the relaxed fit doesn’t squeeze your thighs or ride up. Prepare to live in them all summer long. (And every summer because after sixty years, it’s probably safe to say this timeless style isn’t going anywhere.)

Inseam length: 5 inches

Available in sizes 24-35

Carve Designs makes some of our favorite actually-butt-covering bathing suits, so it’s no surprise to find we’re fans of their blissfully relaxed shorts as well. The laid-back Oahu shorts come in 4, 6 and 10 inch inseams and are great for beach days, barbecues, and anything in between. The organic cotton fabric is super soft and keeps its shape throughout the day and washes great as well.

Inseam length: 4, 6 or 10 inches

Available in sizes 0-16

A wallet-friendly Target home run, the High-Rise Tailored Shorts from A New Day are a stylish way to add a fun color pop to your shorts collection. The tailored cut pairs perfectly with the summer loafers we’re ready to wear on repeat but works equally well with strappy sandals. They’re available in springy colors like pastel yellow, lilac and pink that look fantastic with tees and layered button downs. And when you’re feeling a little more refined? No problem. They come in black too.

Inseam length: 4 inches

Available in sizes 0-26

Another brightly hued option we’re eyeing is the High-Waisted Wow Jean Shorts from Old Navy. The classic jean short cut easily makes them an everyday go-to and considering the price and array of colors, it’s likely we’ll own multiples before the temps even start to climb. They’re made from a blend of cotton and polyester with a tiny bit of stretch and reviewers rave about the fit which is comfy and flattering.

Inseam length: 3 inches

Available in sizes 0-30

From their cult-favorite joggers to their Halo skirt I just wore the hell out of on vacation, Vuori is my travel wardrobe of choice. Another style that absolutely needs to be in your suitcase? The ultra-lightweight Villa Short. They’re sporty but still kind of fashion-y and even if they end up on the bottom of your bag while you take a dip, they don’t come out a wrinkled mess.

Inseam length: Not specified

Available in sizes XXS-XXL

I may have been born too late (and too uncoordinated) to be a 70’s California surfer girl, but that doesn’t mean I can’t dress like one. The retro-inspired Seventyseven Stretch Cord Shorts from surf-loving brand Outerknown are the perfect pair for laid-back beach days with a flattering rise that’s not too high or too low.

Inseam length: 3 inches

Available in sizes 24-34