The Denim Trend I’m Wearing Instead of Jeans This Summer
It’s too hot for lengthy jeans, so I’m wearing Bermuda shorts instead.
At this very moment, temperatures are hovering in the high 80s in New York City, which means I’ve had to (temporarily) bid adieu to my beloved jeans. However, there is one denim trend sticking around in my closet for summer: Bermuda shorts.
Yes, they’re a polarizing pants style—and extremely dad-core-coded—but they’re practical. Defined by a hemline that hits right above the knee and a spacious silhouette that allows for ample airflow, these cropped bottoms are ideal for sweltering heat waves. And beyond their functional appeal, they’re easy to style in a way that feels polished—despite denim’s inherently casual reputation.
For days in the office, I’ll often wear my favorite pair of AGolde Bermuda shorts with a crisp button-down, sharp kitten heels, and a leather laptop tote. It’s a corporate-friendly formula that cycles through my nine-to-five wardrobe easily.
Who says you can't wear Bermuda shorts to work? This look gets the job done every time.
Meanwhile, for post-work dinners, I’ll reach for my white denim Bermuda shorts from Levi’s, paired with elevated sandals, a chic tank, and a refined handbag.
With styling options this endless, I’m of the mindset that you can never have too many denim Bermuda shorts for summer. There’s no debating that they deserve a prime spot in every warm-weather wardrobe, so I’ve curated a handpicked edit of styles to shop below. Scroll on to discover a thorough list spanning every price point, from affordable brands like Madewell and Banana Republic to more designer alternatives such as Coperni and Rag Bone.
Shop My Favorite Denim Bermuda Shorts
I swear by Agolde’s '90s Short. I wear them nearly every week, mostly because the high-rise construction is both flattering and comfortable. Plus, these bottoms don’t cause an awkward gap around the waist, which is always a plus in my book.
Madewell’s Bermuda bottoms boast a frayed hemline for an edgy touch. Try this option if you want to shake things up a bit.
I already own these classic Levi’s shorts in white, but they fit so well that I’m considering the brand’s black version.
Coated in a refined dark wash, Banana Republic’s denim shorts are ideal for dressy casual occasions. For a night on the town, I can’t wait to pair this style with a tube top, strappy sandals, and a sumptuous shoulder bag.
If you’d prefer a more narrow fit, slip into these shorts from Mango. They’re made with a straight-leg construction, so they’re far less baggy than other spacious styles.
Stitched with a half-pipe shape, these Bermudas from Mother are undeniably sculptural. They’re practically a work of art.
No summer wardrobe is complete without a pair of white Bermuda cut-offs. I’d recommend this option from Rails, designed with 100 percent cotton for a soft texture.
Not looking to break the bank for denim shorts this summer? Try Free People’s Montana bottoms, priced at $78.
If you'd like to invest in a pair of Bermuda shorts, allow me to point you to Rag Bone. The label offers this pair made with high-quality denim that won’t lose its structure over time.
Citizens of Humanity’s denim shorts are partially composed of recycled cotton for an eco-friendly appeal.
Embrace ‘90s fashion with this high-rise style. While you’re at it, take the nostalgic look up a notch with a barely-there tank top, thong sandals, and mini gold hoops.
Reformation’s Saige shorts are offered in seven different washes, but I’m partial to this medium indigo shade. There’s something about this hue that feels super sophisticated.
Ask me about one of my favorite denim brands, and I’ll tell you all about DL1961. The label specializes in high-retention stretch fabrics that last season after season.
7 For All Mankind’s Monroe shorts just dropped in price from $148 to $118. If you like what you see, I’d act now before it’s too late!
What I love most about Gap is its diverse denim selection. Not only does the brand offer sizes up to 35, but it also provides regular, tall, and petite fits.
The front of Coperni’s Bermuda shorts are fairly standard, but the back reveals a silver-tone logo buckle on the pocket for a cool-girl twist.
