Best Shorts for Women Over 50: Denim, Linen, Bermuda & More
Every summer, I find myself reaching for the same few things: easy dresses, comfortable sandals, white pants, and even a couple of pairs of cute shorts.
I know a lot of women over 50 feel unsure about wearing shorts as they get older. For me, it’s never been about age—it’s about finding ones that fit well, feel comfortable, and look polished.
Once you do, it’s easy to feel confident wearing shorts in summer. They’re hard to beat when it’s really hot out, or you’re spending the day sightseeing on vacation.
Here are the best shorts for women over 50 and the styles I find most flattering, comfortable, and easy to wear.
How to Choose the Right Shorts After 50
You might think the longer the shorts, the more flattering they’ll be, but that’s not always the case. In fact, shorts that are too long or too baggy can sometimes make your legs look shorter and heavier.
What usually works best is a pair that skims your body without clinging. You want enough room through the hips and thighs to move comfortably, but not so much fabric that you’re swimming in it.
Fabric matters, too. Denim, cotton twill, and linen usually look a little neater because they hold their shape and don’t cling.
And don’t get hung up on a specific inseam. Some women love a 5-inch inseam. Others feel more comfortable in a 7-inch or 9-inch style. There’s no magic number. The best length is the one that feels right to you.
If shorts have always been a challenge for you, be sure to check out my guide on How to Wear Shorts After 40.
Quick Guide to the Best Shorts for Women Over 50
| Shorts Style | Best For | Coverage | Style Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denim Shorts | Everyday wear | Medium | Casual |
| Linen Shorts | Travel & hot weather | Medium | Relaxed Chic |
| Bermuda Shorts | Extra coverage | High | Casual |
| Tailored Shorts | Lunches, dinners, events | Medium | Dressy |
| Pull-On Shorts | Comfort & travel | Medium | Casual |
| White Shorts | Summer outfits | Medium | Classic |
Best Linen Shorts for Women Over 50
On hot, sticky days, linen shorts are a lifesaver. They’re lightweight, breathable, and they don’t cling – exactly what you want when it’s 92 degrees. What I love most about them is that they look relaxed, without looking sloppy. Stick with versatile colors like white, navy, tan, olive, or black, and you’ll have endless outfit options.
The Talbots Linen Shorts I’m wearing above have a high waist, a fly front with a button closure, real pockets front and back, and a 9-inch inseam that hits at the most flattering length. The linen has real weight to it, so it drapes well and holds its shape all day. I wear mine in white on repeat all summer and love them. They’re modern and classy.
Quince has become one of my favorite places to find affordable linen pieces, and these European Linen High-Waisted Shorts are a great example of why. The high-rise fit creates a flattering silhouette, while the linen fabric keeps them cool and comfortable on even the hottest summer days.
Best Bermuda Shorts for Women Over 50
Bermuda shorts seem to divide women into two camps. You either love them or you hate them. I was never much into them, but lately I’ve become a fan. I’ve discovered that a good pair of Bermuda shorts can actually be quite flattering.
The key to flattering Bermuda shorts is the fit. If they’re too loose or baggy, they can start to look bulky and frumpy. A pair that skims the body, hits just above the knee, and has a bit of shape to them will look much more modern and stylish.
Finding a Bermuda short that’s comfortable and refined isn’t always easy, which is why I recommend this linen-blend style pair from NYDJ. It has the extra coverage many women want, but the fabric keeps it from feeling too heavy.
Sometimes you want something that feels a little more polished than a casual weekend short. That’s exactly where Ann Taylor’s Boardwalk Shorts shine. They have a classic, tailored feel that makes them easy to wear for everything. They come in a handful of chic neutrals, too.
Best Denim Shorts for Women Over 50
If you’ve sworn off denim shorts because they instantly bring to mind Daisy Dukes or something your teenage granddaughter would wear, you may want to have a second look. Today’s denim shorts are much more grown-up.
For the most flattering look, choose a mid- to high-rise style with a 5- to 7-inch inseam and a little stretch. I personally prefer a dark or medium wash with a clean hem and little to no distressing. It’s a more elevated look.
Chico’s Denim Trouser Shorts hit the sweet spot between short, casual denim shorts and longer, more formal Bermudas. The trouser-inspired silhouette and longer 7′ length give you good coverage and a semi-dressy look.
Wit & Wisdom’s Absolution Denim Shorts are known for their comfortable fit and flattering smoothing panel. The clean wash and relaxed silhouette make them incredibly versatile, whether you’re wearing them with a striped tee or a crisp button-down. They’re an easy choice for everyday summer wear.
Be sure to read my guide to the Best Denim Shorts for Women Over 40, where I share my favorite styles, fit tips, and outfit ideas.
Best Tailored Shorts for Women Over 50
One of the biggest surprises in recent years has been the return of tailored shorts. These aren’t the shorts you wear to walk the dog or spend the day gardening. They’re the shorts you wear when you want to look a little more dressed up but don’t feel like wearing a dress. They are the summer equivalent of a great pair of trousers.
The Chico’s Emme Fly Front Sateen Shorts are exactly what I mean when I talk about tailored shorts that make people do a double-take. The fly front, the belt loops, the back darts for fit, and the A-line shape through the leg. These look like proper, polished shorts, and the sateen fabric has the most beautiful soft hand feel.
This Ann Taylor Bermuda Short in Linen Blend is another tailored option I really love, and the red color is just stunning. It has the same high-rise, above-the-knee silhouette that makes tailored shorts look so polished, but the linen-blend fabric gives the whole thing a relaxed, easy feel.
Best White Shorts for Women Over 50
Every summer wardrobe needs at least one great pair of white shorts. They instantly brighten your outfit and make everything look fresh.
I love pairing white shorts with navy stripes, colorful tops, chambray shirts, and simple linen tops. They have a fresh, summery look and go with almost everything.
My only advice is to pay attention to the fabric. White shorts should look crisp and polished—not give everyone a peek at your underwear.
If you prefer a more relaxed fit, these Talbots Relaxed Chino Shorts are great for everyday. They have an easy, classic shape that isn’t too fitted or too loose.
White shorts can be tricky, but these SPANX supersmooth Stretch Twill Shorts get a lot right. The smoothing stretch fabric is comfortable and flattering, while the 7-inch inseam covers your thighs nicely, without looking matronly. They also come in a shorter 5″ length and multiple colors.
If you love the fresh look of white shorts, you’ll probably also enjoy my guide to wearing white jeans after 50.
Best Pull-On Shorts for Women Over 50
Can we take a moment to appreciate pull-on shorts? There comes a point when an elastic waistband starts sounding less like giving up and more like a good idea. The trick is finding pull-on shorts that are comfortable without looking like something your grandmother would wear.
Talbots always does casual summer basics well, and these Gauze Pull-On Shorts are no exception. Made from soft cotton gauze, they’re lightweight, breathable, and comfortable enough for even the hottest days. Plus, they’re cute in that bright red with the tassel belt.
Chico’s Pull-On Scallop Button Jean Shorts combine the look of denim with the comfort of a pull-on style. The pull-on waistband makes them a cinch to get on, while the scalloped button details add a little personality without being over the top.
Shorts for Women Over 50 with a Tummy
I want to talk about this because I know it is on a lot of minds, and I want to be straightforward. A tummy is not a reason to avoid shorts. It is just something to dress with a little intention, which,h honestly, is what great style is always about.
The French tuck does a lot of the work here. Front of your blouse tucked in, back loose, and suddenly there’s a waist, and the whole outfit looks purposeful. A top that skims the waistband, not fully tucked in and not fully out.
The Brigitte Slim Shorts from Chico’s are one of my favorites to recommend, and once you try them, you will completely understand why. That built-in So Slimming panel does exactly what it promises,s and the 10-inch inseam hits at the most flattering length. Pull-on waist, front pockets, stretch and recovery fabric that moves with you all day.
How to Make Shorts Look More Stylish After 50
The difference between shorts that feel casual and those that feel stylish often comes down to what you pair them with.
For example, a simple pair of shorts instantly looks more elevated when paired with a linen button-down, a lightweight sweater draped over your shoulders, or a flattering blouse. Great accessories help, too. A woven handbag, attractive sandals, a statement necklace, or a pair of oversized sunglasses can completely change the feel of an outfit.
Want short outfit inspiration? You’ll love my post on Casual Classy Shorts Outfits for Over 40 and 50. It’s full of easy ideas for putting together stylish summer looks.
If you’re feeling self-conscious in shorts, draw attention upward. A beautiful top, interesting earrings, or a bright lipstick naturally brings the eye toward your face. Most people notice your smile long before they notice your knees.
What Shoes to Wear With Shorts After 50
Shoes can genuinely make or break a shorts outfit, so you have to be smart about this.
Low-block-heel sandals always look great. They add height and polish, are comfortable enough to wear all day, and make the whole outfit look intentional. With tailored or linen shorts in particular, a block-heeled sandal is the finishing touch that ties everything together.
Strappy flat sandals in a metallic or neutral tone are beautiful for a more relaxed look. The thin strap elongates the leg in a way that chunkier flat sandals simply do not.
White sneakers with denim or casual shorts is a combination that has been working beautifully for years and shows no sign of stopping. Keep the sneaker sleek and clean rather than athletic and chunky, and you are in great shape.
Espadrilles were practically invented to be worn with linen shorts. The natural texture, the slight height, the warm weather ease of them.
One Last Thing About Shorts
If you’re still searching for the perfect pair of shorts, don’t overthink it. You don’t need the trendiest style or the exact inseam everyone else is wearing. You just need a pair that feels good on you.
Hi Deborah, I accidentally found your website while on the computer. You’ve given me so many beautiful ideas about looking great. I turned 75 in May and got many compliments about what I wear. You give me great ideas to dress looking great yet not like I’m trying too hard to look young. I want to look classy, and since I love clothes and shoes this has worked out beautifully. You also gave me colors to put together I’d never thought about. Keep up the great work. You’ve made a 75-year-old feel up-to-date and classy.
Hi Marlene,
Thanks for dropping by. It’s never too late to look stylish, and I’m so glad I’ve inspired you. You feel great when you look great, and Life is much more fun. As I always say, Life is too short to be Frumpy.
I am about to give up on wearing shorts, Not because of my legs, but because of the fit! Current shorts seem to be cut full in the thighs, making me look like I am wearing a box. Denim shorts are the exception, but I don’t want to wear denim all of the time. I know I previously owned shorts that were narrower in the legs. Are there any brands that offer a slimmer cut in shorts?
Hi Denise, Have you seen these shorts? I love them, and I think they have an excellent cut:https://www.fabulousafter40.com/how-to-style-shorts-to-look-casually-chic/.
I enjoy your blog, Deborah. Thanks for this great post on shorts. At age 55, I thought shorts were a thing of the past. You have given me so many styling ideas. I love that you also link the product to the store.
Hi Mareva, Thanks for dropping by. I’m glad the blog is inspiring you. I think that shorts over a certain age are not allowed is nonsense. I’ve seen lots of mature women in Rockin shorts of all kinds. If you want to wear them, why not? I think the key is to put together a complete short outfit to look a little more polished, sporty, and modern. It sounds like you are doing that. All the best, and, please let me know what you’d like me to write about. Cheers, Deborah
Deborah – Do you feel there is a rule regarding length after 40? I will be 45 this summer and am in the best shape of my life – even better than when I was a four-sport athlete as a teenager. I am a fitness competitor and have found that the shorts in the “mature” section of stores do not fit me. The proportions from waist to hips are always awkward in those sections. I don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard to be young, but I don’t want to look like a frumpy soccer mom. Any suggestions?
Hi Jodee,
I like shorts with a 4-inch inseam or more. That’s short but not sparse, especially if you get more tailored shorts. Banana republic always seems to have lots. I think it is also important what you wear up top. If you are going for short shorts, go with a lid that doesn’t show as much skin. It’s that balance that will make you look classy, not trashy. Here’s an article that will give you a few more tips:https://www.fabulousafter40.com/how-to-wear-shorts-after-40/
Thanks for fixing the Basic Black and White for the shopping information – – Love, love this outfit for Summer
I guessed the shoes were Toms, but I was unsure about the res.
I love shorts but have a hard time finding ones that fit. So last summer, I opted to wear stretch Capri leggings with a longer top. Works great for me. It also has the benefit of being comfier than bottoms with a woven waistband. But if I find shorts to fit, I’ll gladly wear them!
Hi Deborah, the styling tips are great. Your photos are always a good Inspiration. The color mix of the styles is so beautiful. My legs are not so good in a form that I could wear a short – with 55; it’s not so easy. Greetings, Martina from Munich
I’m 43. Others say I look like 29 because I am 5’2 feet, 29-inch waistline; I can wear shorts, skirts and mini dresses which are comfortable for me!!!! And I look too pretty, so others say!!!
I could see many cute people wearing boho shorts outfits, even under 40.
I agree. We live in Florida, and it is too darned hot to wear long pants all summer. We see a lot of maxis in translucent fabrics, sundresses, skorts (tennis and golf people), knee-length skirts, and shorts. I think the key is stated here in the blog advice. Stay toward the more tailored (dressy) shorts versus the Daisy Dukes. A pair of shorts that hits mid-thigh length is flattering, not cheap looking. They also peek out of the bottom of a longer (covers the derrière) top that is worn untucked. A pair of heels can dress up shorts, but flat sandals look great all year long here in FL.
I say opt for a skirt instead of shorts! They are so cute- and much cooler (meaning a little more breezy). You can pair a cotton skirt with flip-flops and a tank and look stylish! Now that it’s fall- this conversation may be a little late… but I had to add my 2 cents!
Go, Kim! My husband likes it when I wear sexy…..think he’s more jealous than anything, but he sulks the minute I try to look sexy! You wear your shorts and keep looking good, feel good when your man tells you this! Enjoy! I envy you! I look good, but hey, this man of mine likes to peep at the other woman, some even far more dam ugly than me, but hey, we can sit in a public place, and he will make me feel like I’m the most unattractive woman alive though I know I get looks from other men, some even younger than me! You go, girl!
Hi, I turn 50 this year. I am still in good shape though I never like wearing short skirts or shorts. I need a change; I like to wear fashion items and look younger than my age, and I also want to try out different or new ideas. This winter I bought myself some leggings which I wear only with a long top, jacket or boots. It looks good, and I feel good. The other day “something came over me,” and I bought myself shorts in denim and a very short skirt which I tried on with my leggings and boots; it looks perfect though I will never go outside because I feel it’s not appropriate for older women. I want to wear this style with a long jacket and a cover-up when going outside. You may ask, “why do I bother then”? Well, this is to feel suitable for me; I don’t want to show my nice legs and sexy clothes out there; I want to know inside and think I look sexy. Am I weird? I hope not, but are there any women who do this if I do? I always try something new, not proper for my age but hey, what the heck, if I feel good, then stuff the rest, correct? I cover up outside the home; what does it matter what I look like underneath a pretty coat? I’ve always been a dark head gal; I started turning grey at the same age most ladies do; I wouldn’t say I liked it, then started to dye red, black, brown, and any other color.
I recently started to like the fashionable grey look, and I went through the process of turning from red to blond, then to grey eventually. Still researching this, but it will come sooner than later. Why do we have to look like a granny if there are still many sparks left in us? I get looks from men and even from women…..but not good ones from women, but I also don’t care. My husband is very old-fashioned concerning their woman, just like his father, etc. though I see the looks he gives other sexy women, he turns quiet and sulky when I look good, young and sexy! I hate this, and one of the reasons why I feel I need a change for myself and not even to spite him but just for me and me alone! Careful, thinking of getting a tattoo exquisitely, somewhere neat, not tacky and cheap though stylish, small yet still there to make a statement. What do you other gals think of my ideas?
I’m just a little bit over 40. My legs are in pretty good shape, so I like to wear shorts on the short side. My husband wants me to wear high heels with them, so I make him happy.
Nice tip about shorts – Unfortunately, in Australia, it’s hard to find shorts that are good for over 40 Ladies. Most styles sold are for the young unless you want the ‘granny version’ – elasticized waist in pastel colors! Yuk! Please let me know about any Aussies who know a good place to find over 40’s shorts.
Shorts at 40, just to or above the knee, may be ok, but for me, at 56, that length highlights what age has done to my knees. Either shorter (several inches above the knee) or covering the kneecap/just to the top of the calf is much better – technically, I guess, they are not shorts! (I have very long legs, so the longer length works). To wear the shorter look, I’m finding that a skort (with the ‘skirt’ part in front and back, not just the show) is more flattering & just as easy to wear as shorts – & easier to shop for.
Hi Deb, Just had to say Hi and note that it was amazing how my first summer after turning 40, shorts are suddenly an issue! Thanks for your advice. Looks like I have some shopping to do.
–Amy Tiemann
Hi Amy,
LOL!!! Great to hear from you and to hear you are finally old enough to be official! Glad you found my advice helpful. Ie want you to still have your mojo with your wardrobe!
Hi Deborah,
Just a quick note – I really en-JOY reading your tips over 40! I find them incredibly helpful, practical and inspiring! Keep them coming!!
Hi Laura,
Thanks for such a “joyful” note! I read your newsletters too!(jolly, well done, we might ad!!!) Great to see you around!
Cheers!
Deborah