FAQ: Fits and Different Types of Shorts
How should shorts fit?
A pair of shorts fits best when they allow room to move without feeling too loose. The fit around the waist and hips should feel secure, while the thighs can have a little room, depending on whether you’re going for a classic, casual, or more voluminous look.
The length also plays a major role in the silhouette. Classic shorts for everyday wear often fall around or just above the knee, while shorter styles create a lighter, more summery look. There is therefore no single “right” length—the proportions between the shorts, your height, and the rest of your outfit are key.
Modern denim and fashion brands, for example, offer shorts in straight, slim, and looser fits. For a more refined everyday look, a fit that follows the body without being too tight is often a good starting point. More voluminous shorts, on the other hand, can create a bold and modern look, especially when paired with a simple top.
What’s the difference between jorts and shorts?
The difference lies primarily in the material. Jorts are denim shorts, while shorts is a broad term for short pants that can be made from, for example, cotton, linen, nylon, or other fabrics. The word is a portmanteau of “jeans” and “shorts.”
Jorts are often associated with the characteristic texture and weight of denim and with details familiar from jeans—such as a five-pocket design, rivets, and visible stitching. This gives them a more rugged and casual look than a pair of lightweight cotton or linen shorts.
Today, however, the term is used broadly. Jorts can be either short, form-fitting denim shorts or long, loose styles that reach near the knee.
This makes jorts particularly interesting in a modern wardrobe because denim adds more structure and character to the shorts. While a pair of classic shorts can serve as a discreet summer staple, a pair of jorts can be the element that gives an outfit more edge.