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Daisy dukes are essential for a true Hot Girl Summer. These short shorts — named after the iconic Dukes of Hazzard character from the ’70s/’80s — traditionally cut off at the hem, as though someone hacked their jeans in half! In 2021, “daisy dukes” have evolved to mean any pair of hot pants: AKA, super short shorts. Take for example the pair that Hailey Baldwin wore with a Joah Brown Cropped Cami and nude Bottega Veneta Chain Mesh Sandals while shooting an exciting project with singer Miguel in Los Angeles on July 20, 2020.
We rounded up some of our favorite pairs of daisy dukes, which you can shop for below!
1. Levi’s Women’s 501 Original Shorts
What’s more classic than a pair of Levi’s denim shorts? Nothing really, and for good reason. They have that classic, worn-in look thanks to frayed edges at the leg openings and ripped detailing on the shorts. But these shorts don’t look worn-out, thanks to high quality, 100 percent cotton denim. They also sit at the perfect length; one reviewer wrote that they “don’t feel like [their] butt is falling out” while rocking the 501 Original Shorts. $40, amazon.com
2. American Apparel Women’s Denim High-Waist Cuff Short
Here’s another classic: the high-waisted shorts from American Apparel. These have been popular since the era of Tumblr grunge in 2013, and still continue to be in fashion to this day. These shorts comfortably hug your waistline and emphasize your derriere, thanks to the high-waist fit. The rolled cuffs are also perfect for those who want to pair their shorts with preppier tops (which may not complement frayed-edge shorts as well). These shorts seriously last a long, time, too (coming from the author who still owns her American Apparel shorts from the early 2010’s). These shorts are also available in “medium wash” and “black” (the pair pictured below is “light wash”). $55, amazon.com
3. River Island denim frayed short in mid authentic
Looking for that “just cut up my old pair of jeans” look? These shorts from River Island fit the bill. This is a true pair of cutoff shorts, with the type of distressed hem that reminds you of summertime. The edges aren’t too frayed, however, if you want to incorporate your daisy dukes into a more feminine outfit (like a pastel cardigan with lettuce hem socks, like the model is wearing below). These shorts are made of 100 percent cotton and run in sizes from 2-14. $53, asos.com
4. CutieLove Women’s Denim Jean Shorts
Feeling a little daring? These daisy dukes are distressed to the extreme, with shredded-up fabric on each leg. These shorts are ideal for your grungier outfits — imagine these shorts with a pair of platform Dr. Martens boots! They’re stretchy, too; they’re made of polyester and elastane. These ripped-up daisy dukes are available in sizes up to XX-Large. $26, amazon.com
5. Women’s High-Rise Jean Shorts – Wild Fable
Daisy dukes aren’t just blue! They come in many colors, but black will pair with just about anything. These 100 percent cotton shorts cut off at the distressed hem and have shredded detailing. Pair these versatile shorts with cowboy boots, Nike Air Force 1s, or even heels (like Hailey Baldwin did with her daisy dukes) — they’re guaranteed to go with just about any pair of shoes. These shorts run in sizes 0-12. $25, prettylittlething.com
6. Women’s High-Rise Distressed Jean Shorts – Universal Thread™
Still want to show off some leg, but don’t want to experience the booty death grip that some daisy dukes have? These medium wash shorts from Universal Thread advertise themselves as having a more “relaxed fit,” which is also due to its soft material (91 percent Cotton, 7 percent Recycled Polyester, and 2 percent Spandex — the lining is also made of 65 percent recycled polyester and 35 percent cotton). These shorts are currently available in sizes 00-16. $18, target.com
7. Plus High Waist Ripped Raw Hem Denim Shorts
Bring on the frayed edges! The hem on these daisy dukes are extra distressed, and feature exposed pieces of fabric throughout the shorts. These shorts are 80 percent cotton and 20 percent polyester and are available in plus sizes up to 4X. $18, romwe.com
8. Haola Women’s Vintage Denim High Waisted Folded Hem Jeans Shorts
Here are another pair of high-waisted cuff shorts, except with more contrast between the shorts and the cuffs. They fit like a true pair of hot pants — perfect to pair with a crop top when you’re having a summer kick back with your vaccinated friends. These shorts are also 100 percent cotton and are all the rage on Amazon — nearly 6,000 people have left reviews including photos, so make sure to check those out too! Sizes run up to XX-Large. $26, amazon.com
