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10 Best Shorts for Women Over 50

By Sandra Roussy June 16, 2024 Beauty

The summer months are here, and many have put away the long pants for shorts and lighter clothing. Are you in need of some new shorts? Don’t know where to turn?

Let’s face it, the denim cutoffs with tears and patches are probably not your thing. We’ve put together a list of the best shorts for older women.

You probably don’t have the same legs you had when you were in your 20s. That’s ok. There’s no need to hide your legs because they have walked thousands of miles and brought you to where you are today.

Flabby knee skin, cellulite, thick thighs, skinny calves… Who cares? Be proud of your legs no matter what they look like.

Here are our top picks for shorts for women over 50:

  1. LAUREN RALPH LAUREN Twill Stretch Bermuda Shorts – Classic bermuda shorts that are offered in classic colors.
  2. PERFECT SHORTS—10.5” – NEWPORT CHAMBRAY – Classic Talbot design.
  3. Mid Rise Elastic Waist Pull On 12″ Chino Bermuda Shorts – A Landsend staple from their spring/summer collection.
  4. Relaxed Bermuda Denim Shorts – NYDJ offers great-fitting bottoms, and these relaxed denim shorts are a perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. 
  5. STYLE & CO Comfort-Waist Cargo Shorts, Created for Macy’s – Convenient cargo style shorts are offered in nine colors.

Read on to discover our complete list of shorts for women over 50, from short shorts to bermuda shorts and patterned shorts.

Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts hit right above the knee. They can be made of natural or synthetic fabrics, be solid or printed. Many women over 60 turn to bermuda shorts for versatility and comfort.

LAUREN RALPH LAUREN Twill Stretch Bermuda Shorts

These LAUREN RALPH LAUREN Twill Stretch Bermuda Shorts in Regular & Petite can be found at Macy’s in Tan, Black, Navy, and White. They feature two front waist angled pockets and two back welt pockets for added convenience. Look out for the “LRL” engraved metal logo tab at the right waist, adding a touch of branding. They are complete with belt loops and a zip fly with a buttoned closure for easy wear.

PERFECT SHORTS—10.5” - NEWPORT CHAMBRAY

The PERFECT SHORTS—10.5” – NEWPORT CHAMBRAY from Talbot’s are classic and refined. These Newport chambray shorts are a timeless addition to your warm-weather wardrobe.

Mid Rise Elastic Waist Pull On 12" Chino Bermuda Shorts

These Mid Rise Elastic Waist Pull On 12″ Chino Bermuda Shorts are a staple in the Landsend summer collection. Featuring welt pockets that lie flat and smooth, these shorts offer a polished look. The elastic waist eliminates any pinching, providing worry-free wear and ensuring a perfect fit. Pair them effortlessly with your favorite sandals, tees, and polos for a laid-back yet chic look.

Relaxed Bermuda Denim Shorts from NYDJ

Relaxed Bermuda Denim Shorts from NYDJ feature four pockets and a convenient zip fly with button closure, making them a go-to choice for effortless summer style.

Shorter Shorts

If you’ve got them, flaunt them. Proud of your legs and like to show them off? Here are our picks for shorts that you will feel good in.

STYLE & CO Comfort-Waist Cargo Shorts, Created for Macy's

STYLE & CO Comfort-Waist Cargo Shorts, Created for Macy’s, feature functional utility pockets at the front and non-functional flap pockets at the back and sides. They are complete with a zipper and button closure, as well as belt loops for added versatility. They are designed with a comfortable waist for all-day wear. Plus, by selecting cotton items from this brand, you’re contributing to Better Cotton’s mission. 

Paper Bag Shorts from NYDJ

Paper Bag Shorts from NYDJ with High Rise offer a harmonious fusion of style and comfort. Featuring a striking paper-bag-style waist adorned with pleats and a front sash tie. Made from lightweight denim fabric, they provide a soft and breathable feel. Complete with convenient front slash pockets and back welt pockets, these shorts effortlessly combine fashion and functionality.

Patterned & Printed Shorts

Printed colorful shorts are fun to match with solid colored tops in the summer. Florals, plaids, polka dots, and more.

Liz Claiborne Mid Rise Pleated Short from JCPenny

Liz Claiborne Mid Rise Pleated Short from JCPenny are made from a blend of 55% linen and 45% rayon. These shorts have a flat front design with a button and zipper closure. Featuring two back slip pockets and two front slip pockets, they offer both style and functionality. With a mid-rise fit, these shorts strike the perfect balance between comfort and trendiness.

STYLE & CO Printed Mid-Rise Bermuda Shorts

STYLE & CO Printed Mid-Rise Bermuda Shorts, Created for Macy’s, feature a delightful print and relaxed raw-edge hems. These shorts, with an approximate inseam of 12 inches, offer a flattering mid-rise fit and are equipped with a front zipper and button closure along with reinforced belt loops for added durability. 

The casual raw-edge hems add a touch of laid-back charm, while the stretch fabric ensures all-day comfort. A slimming pocket panel provides a smoothing effect, enhancing the overall silhouette. 

These shorts support women’s empowerment and gender equality through their manufacturing process in a factory participating in RISE programs.

TOMMY HILFIGER 9" Cotton Bermuda Shorts

Celebrate the iconic Tommy Hilfiger logo with these flag-embellished TOMMY HILFIGER 9″ Cotton Bermuda Shorts, a must-have for your casual-day wardrobe. Featuring flag embellishments, these shorts exude timeless style. They are designed with a zipper and button closure at the front, along with belt loops for added versatility. Complete with hip pockets, these shorts offer both functionality and flair, making them the perfect choice for relaxed yet stylish outfits.

PERFECT SHORTS—10.5” - SUNRISE GINGHAM

The PERFECT SHORTS—10.5” – SUNRISE GINGHAM from Talbots are designed to hit at the waist and offer a flattering knee-length silhouette. They feature a fly front with a hook-and-bar closure for a polished look. Front slash pockets and back welt pockets offer both convenience and style. Made from a blend of 97% cotton and 3% spandex, these shorts provide comfort and flexibility for all-day wear.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What types of shorts are your favorites? Which one on our list is your top pick? Where do you shop for shorts? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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The Author

Sandra is a writer, traveler, and former fashion designer who made a bold midlife pivot to pursue her creative passions. After two decades designing collections for brands like La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she let go of her possessions and reimagined her life on her own terms. Her personal essay about love, loss, and facing fears was hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert and featured in the New York Times bestselling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com.

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