Let’s be honest—denim shorts aren’t for everyone. They can feel stiff, restrictive, and sometimes just…uncomfortable, especially in the middle of summer when all you really want is something light and breathable.
And if you’ve ever struggled to find a pair that fits just right, you’re not alone. At some point, they start to feel a little overdone too—like the default option instead of the best one.
That’s exactly where this guide comes in. If you’re ready to move on from denim, there are so many other summer shorts that feel softer, more elevated, and actually enjoyable to wear. Think easy fabrics, relaxed fits, and styles that still look put-together without trying too hard.
Ahead, you’ll find six non-denim short styles that are perfect for summer—each with a breakdown of what they are, why you’ll love them, and who they’re best for.
Plus, I’ve included options at every price point (low, mid, and high) so you can find something that fits both your style and your budget.
1. Tailored Shorts
You’ll love tailored shorts because they strike the ideal balance between effortless and put-together, making them easy to dress up with a button-down or down with a basic tank.
They’re especially great for occasions where you still want to look chic in the heat; they’re best for brunch dates, work-friendly summer outfits, or city days when you want to feel a little more refined without sacrificing comfort.
Tailored shorts are structured, polished shorts, usually high-waisted with pleats or a trouser-like fit.
Ewedoos
DayStretch High Waisted Pocket Wide Leg Work Shorts
Cotton Stretch Chino Shorts
2. Sweater Shorts
Sweater shorts are soft, knit shorts that add a cozy, elevated feel to your summer wardrobe.
They’re especially perfect for laid-back moments like lounging at home, running errands, or travel days when comfort is important but you still want to look cute.
2K Striped Knit Shorts
AE Crochet Sweater Striped Short
Lax Sweater Shorts
3. Boxer Shorts
Boxer shorts are lightweight, relaxed-fit shorts that are inspired by classic menswear. They are usually made of breathable cotton or soft poplin fabric, which gives them that easy, slightly oversized feel.
You’ll love them because they’re effortlessly cool, incredibly airy in the heat, and surprisingly versatile—easy to style with a tank, oversized button-down.
Quenteen Women’s Boxer Shorts
AE Flannel Boxer Sleep Short
We The Free Day to Day Striped Boxers
4. Track Shorts
Boxer shorts are lightweight, relaxed-fit shorts that are inspired by classic menswear. They are usually made of breathable cotton or soft poplin fabric, which gives them that easy, slightly oversized feel.
You’ll love them because they’re effortlessly cool, incredibly airy in the heat, and surprisingly versatile—easy to style with a tank, oversized button-down, or even a blazer for a more elevated look—which is precisely why they’ve become such a popular summer trend.
Women’s Striped Track Shorts
Umbro UO Exclusive Checkered Performance Shorts
Mesh Run Shorts
5. Linen Shorts
You’ll love linen shorts because they’re incredibly airy, naturally cool, and give off that effortless, coastal “put together without trying” aesthetic.
They pair just as well with a basic tank as they do with a crisp button-down, and they’re ideal for vacations, beach days, warm-weather errands, or everyday outfits when you want to feel comfortable but still look elevated.
Linen shorts are made of breathable linen fabric and are often designed with a relaxed waists or drawstrings.
Elastic Waist Linen Blend Summer Shorts
High-Waisted Linen-Blend Shorts
High-Rise Linen-Blend Pull-On Short
6. Bloomer Shorts
Bloomer shorts are soft, flowy shorts with a slightly puffed or gathered silhouette that create a feminine, vintage-inspired look. You’ll love them because they feel light and airy while adding a unique, romantic touch to your outfit, making even the most basic top feel styled and intentional.
Because of their delicate, playful feel, they’ve become especially popular as part of the “underwear-as-outerwear” trend; they’re ideal for creative styling days, brunches, vacations, or when you want to lean into a softer, more expressive aesthetic.
Y2K Lolita Bloomers Boy Shorts
Women’s Mesh Bloomer Shorts
