I tried out TikTok's most popular jean shorts—here are the styles that are truly worth purchasing.

      As a genuine Midwest girl, jean shorts are almost like a religion to me—and I've tried them all. From Daisy Dukes that barely brushed my thighs to the notorious crochet-lined styles that defined my high school summers in 2016, and even ultra-baggy options that completely engulfed my frame, my drawer has seen everything. Nowadays, I'm focused on finding the perfect cut, fit, and length—the type that flatters in all the right areas and successfully passes the sit test (who wants to keep adjusting their shorts all day?). This summer, I committed to not wasting another minute in poorly fitting denim.

      In my pursuit of the best pair, I did what any self-respecting Gen Z girl would do: I opened TikTok and dove deep into my search for the internet's favorite jean shorts. After hours of scrolling, taking screenshots, and sifting through comments, I created a short list of the most talked-about jean shorts online. I wasn’t just interested in how they looked during a try-on. My criteria were straightforward: How do they hold up after washing? Can I sit comfortably in them for hours? Do they actually look good in real life and not just in a mirror selfie? I mean, this was serious investigative work!

      After putting each pair through my meticulously scientific testing process—wearing them to brunch, walking my dogs, sweating through subway rides, and even standing in a crowd at an outdoor concert—I’ve narrowed it down to five outstanding options. Whether you're shopping for a Labor Day Weekend trip or, like me, plan to wear denim shorts for as long as possible into the fall, I'm confident these pairs deserve a place in your wardrobe.

      **Citizens of Humanity Marlow Long Shorts**

      This pair feels like a high-end version of jean shorts. The denim has a crisp, substantial feel that molds to your body over time, and they hit just above the knee. They’re definitely going to be a staple for me, especially when I want a more refined short look.

      *Composition*: 100% regenerative cotton

      *Sizes*: 23–34

      *Wash Options*: 6

      *Fit*: True to size.

      **How I'd Style Them**:

      - Citizens of Humanity Marlow Long Shorts in Amaretto

      - Citizens of Humanity Cropped Western Denim Shirt

      - Bottega Veneta Bold Ribbon Stud Sunglasses

      - Margaux The Phoebe in Burgundy Nappa

      - Ring Concierge Chain Dusters

      - Parker Thatch Micro Mimi in Zebra

      **Levi's Premium High Rise Baggy Shorts**

      There’s something timeless about Levi’s, and this pair exemplifies that. The fit is unexpectedly polished: no gaping at the waist, a flattering fit through the hips, and a structured feel that retains comfort. The dark wash adds sophistication, and while I customized them with a raw edge, the clean hem is versatile for more elevated styling. At this price, they're an easy choice.

      *Sizes*: 23–34

      *Wash Options*: 8

      *Composition*: 95% Cotton, 5% Recycled Cotton

      *Fit*: These run a bit small; I recommend going up one size for a more relaxed fit.

      **How I'd Style Them**:

      - Levi's High Rise Baggy Women's Shorts

      - Levi's Shrunken '90s Western Trucker Jacket

      - The Great The Square Stripe Crop Top

      - Rabanne 1969 Ball Chainmail Shoulder Bag

      - Lowercase Steeplechase Sun in Canary

      - Vibi Venezia Mary Janes in Cherry

      **Reformation Raye Mid-Rise Relaxed Jean Shorts**

      These might be the most comfortable denim shorts I've ever worn—no exaggeration. The fabric is surprisingly soft with the perfect amount of stretch. I love the longer inseam and trendy grommets that add a cool touch. It’s no surprise they were all over my feed.

      *Sizes*: 23–34

      *Wash Options*: 4

      *Composition*: 60% organically grown cotton, 40% Tencel x Refibra Lyocell

      *Fit*: True to size.

      **How I'd Style Them**:

      - Reformation Raye Mid-Rise Relaxed Jean Shorts in Chesapeake Studded

      - Jenni Kayne Fisherman Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

      - Lizzie Fortunato Arc Resin Cuff

      - Liffner Pillow Pouch Micro Army Suede

      **Agolde Parker Long Shorts in Skywave**

      The waist on these shorts sits perfectly, providing security while remaining relaxed, and the loose leg gives them a laid-back, lived-in vibe that's perfect for summer. The soft, sun-faded wash looks vintage in the best way, making them suitable for casual afternoons or polished off-duty styles.

      *Sizes*: 23–33

      *Wash Options*: 4

      *Composition*: 100% cotton

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