If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, we may receive an affiliate commission. Learn more about our policies and reviews.
When it comes to denim anything, there really is no such thing as having too much. Whether it is jeans, jackets, tops, or shorts, denim is timeless, has endless styling capabilities, and can even be worn year-round.
We have rounded up a few timeless styles of women’s denim cut-off shorts below. We have chosen mostly distressed options with a few non-distressed sprinkled in, as they are the most popular, look the coolest, and will always be on-trend.
Most of our options have the classic five-pocket styling with a zip fly, button closure, and a variety of rises from low to high depending on preference. These shorts also come in a great color mix of light, medium, and dark denim washes as well as flattering black and white to ensure your shorts wardrobe is well rounded to get you through the upcoming season.
Our Picks of the Hottest Women’s Denim Cut Off Shorts
GRAPENT Shorts — Best Overall
These washed denim cutoffs are a great option to keep in your wardrobe rotation. Made from soft, stretchy denim, these shorts have a mid-rise with a zip fly and button closure and the prerequisite raw, frayed hem for style. These shorts can be worn daily, are suitable for a day at the beach or a day of running errands, and pair perfectly with all kinds of tops including crop tops, tanks, and blouses.
Pros
- Plenty of colors and unique style options will keep you stylish
- They come in a large size range
Cons
- These are not available in white or black
Govc Frayed Shorts — Runner Up
These stretchy denim shorts are another great option with their slight distressing and frayed, raw hemline. This popular wash of denim pairs well with any style top from an on-trend button-down plaid to a chiffon-style tank. Their comfortable and soft denim is easy to wear and they come in all the bright, neutral, and fun pattern options for a fun new pair every day of the week.
Pros
- These shorts have a flirty side slit
- They can be machine washed
Cons
- If you prefer a longer inseam, another option might be better
Onlypuff Denim Shorts — Honorable Mention
With a cotton, polyester, and spandex blend, these cutoff shorts will keep you comfortable all day while keeping their shape. The strategic distressing on the shorts and hem makes them very on-trend and their side slit gives them some unique character.
Pros
- These shorts will go with almost any shirt, sweater, or tee
- They have a nice stretch
Cons
- It is important to check the size chart to ensure correct sizing
Soojun Shorts — Also Consider
If a shorter short with an ultra low rise design is your preference, these shorts are a great option. Made from stretchy fabric, these have a button and zipper closure with distressed patches and a raw hem design. AKA “booty shorts,” these leave little to the imagination and have a cheeky cut that is intended to highlight and display the bum area.
Pros
- These shorts come in nine different color options
- They are great for hot days on the beach
Cons
- These shorts may only be suitable for the beach or vacation
Lookbook Shorts — Another Option
Another great pair of casual summer shorts are these which feature a slightly shorter leg that can take you from the beach to a dinner date with a simple top change. They also feature a washed, distressed design, raw hemline, and five-pocket design for practical use.
Pros
- These shorts come in 20 different denim washes, distressing, and colors
- These shorts have a stylish frayed hem
Cons
- If you prefer long cut-offs, another option might be better
Buying Guide: Women’s Denim Cut Off Shorts
The top women’s denim cut-off shorts in 2024 make a great addition to any wardrobe for the summer. You can dress them up or wear them to lounge around on the beach. They are also an essential vacation item. Whatever your style, a pair of denim cut-off shorts are versatile enough to match it.
Denim cut-off shorts are available in different lengths and styles. Choosing the best type for your style and body type might seem difficult. However, there are several things you can consider before you purchase denim cut-off shorts to ensure you get the best product in terms of comfort and style.
Continue reading to see what we suggest.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing Women’s Denim Cut Off Shorts
Denim washes
Denim wash describes the effect applied to denim to create a certain look. Different denim washes include:
- Stonewash
Stonewash makes a new fabric look a little more worn and beaten. The process uses stones and makes the fabric feel softer.
- Enzyme wash
Enzyme wash also makes the fabric look more faded, and feel softer.
- Acid wash/bleach wash
Acid wash is the act of partially washing denim with bleach. This can be done in certain patches to make the shorts look more faded in different areas. Alternatively, the shorts could be fully bleached making them look extremely faded.
- Mill wash or rinse wash
This technique creates the darkest least faded color in denim.
Distressing
Distressed denim is ripped or frayed to varying levels. Most denim shorts are distressed to some degree. This creates a cool and more youthful look.
Color
Denim shorts are available in every color under the rainbow. However, the most popular colors are blue or black. For this reason, if you want denim shorts in a different color to blue or black, you should begin your search with a specific color.
Waist-length
Denim cut-off shorts can sit at different parts of the body near or on the waist. Where the shorts sit can be described by the following phrases:
- Low-rise
This means the shorts will rest on the hips. This look suits tall people best.
- Mid-rise
Mid-rise denim shorts sit on the belly button.
- High-rise
High-rise denim shorts will sit somewhere between the smallest part of your waist and below the ribs. These shorts will elongate your legs and are perfect for shorter people.
Inseam length
You can purchase denim shorts that show some of your bottom, denim shorts that sit just above the knee, and every length between. Choose a length that you feel comfortable in, and is weather appropriate.
Side slit
Some women’s cut-off denim shorts have a side slit. The side slit adds to the style of the shorts and allows you to move a little more freely in them.
Stretchy
Similarly, stretchy denim shorts will allow you to move more freely. Sometimes shorts can fit perfectly when you stand but may feel too tight when you sit. Purchasing denim shorts with a little stretch will ensure you remain comfortable.
Closure type
Most denim cut-off shorts have a zip and button closure. However, you can also purchase denim cut-off shorts which use buttons alone to fasten. Alternatively, you may want to look for a pair of denim shorts with an elasticated waist.
Hem
The hem of the shorts can be secure and smooth. However, raw hemlines are in trend right now. Raw hemlines can range in how much they are frayed. The hemline you choose is down to your personal preference.
Pockets
Pockets are extremely useful. Denim shorts usually have at least two pockets but may have none and as many as five or six. Some pockets are fake and are just placed on the shorts to create a certain look.
Denim skorts
Skorts are a mix between shorts and a skirt. This is a great option if you love the look of a denim skirt, but you want to create a little more modesty. They also bring a touch of individuality to an outfit.
Denim short dungarees
Denim short dungarees are another great option that brings a twist to both the denim shorts look and the dungaree look.
Customer reviews
Before you purchase denim shorts, be sure to read the product’s customer reviews. This will give you a better idea about the short’s durability, as well as how true to size the product is.
Women’s Denim Cut-Off Shorts Price Range
Women’s denim cut-off shorts can cost from as little as $7 and as much as $90 for a pair with a designer label.
