Look and feel cool when it's hot outside in the best plus-size shorts for your body type
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15 Plus-Size Shorts to Wear This Summer
Updated on May 03, 2025
Warm weather is here and it’s time to pull out the swimsuits, sandals and shorts. And while there’s no shortage of options this time of year, it can be difficult to find plus-size shorts that are both comfortable and stylish while offering a good fit.
To help make your shopping easier, we scoured the top retailers to find the best shorts for figures of various shapes and sizes. You’re bound to find at least one (or maybe three) you’ll want to add to your cart this summer!
Lane Bryant Silky Chino City Short
Made from modal, polyester, cupro and spandex, these chino-style shorts offer a relaxed fit that feels silky and lightweight no matter how much the weather heats up. Four pockets hold those daily essentials in addition to a stretchy waistband that moves with you for optimal comfort. Wear them over a bodysuit for a put-together look at a birthday party or casual dinner out. They come in three colors and sizes 12 to 28.
Eloquii Distressed Denim Short
You may already know and love the brand Eloquii for its of-the-moment stylish pieces for larger bodies. Available in sizes 14 to 32, this pair of distressed denim plus-size shorts is super on-trend, featuring a frayed hem, five pockets and a contoured waistband that rests right at the hips.
Hutch Pleated Utility Shorts
The pleats on these utility shorts are in all the right places to give them the business-casual look of traditional slacks in a cooler cut. Front slant pockets and a side-patch pocket hold daily essentials while giving your hands a place to rest. They come in three colors and sizes 1X to 3X.
Casual Drawstring Shorts
These mid-rise elastic shorts from Amazon Fashion come in over 33 colors and patterns and sizes to 3X, so you’ll find ones that will go with anything! The breezy fabric is made of a polyester, cotton and spandex blend that feels just as appropriate for Sunday brunch as it does for errands.
Lane Bryant Livi Towel Terry Short
When it’s time to hit the beach, get a pair of shorts that provide coverage and keep you dry. With a stretchy elastic waistband and side pockets, these terry shorts absorb water when tossed over a wet bathing suit to serve as a cover-up. These plus-size shorts are available in sizes 14 to 40 and come in both white and honeysuckle pink.
Torrid Retro Chic Ruffle Hem Short
Add a fun and playful pattern to your traditional wardrobe with the vibrant floral and fruit design of these ruffle hem shorts. Made from rayon, these plus-size shorts have a flirty 3.5-inch length and feel ultra-lightweight and breathable, while skimming your curves for a flattering fit. They come in Torrid’s proprietary sizes, which translate to plus sizes 10 to 30.
Maurices Belted Weekender Short
Show a little leg with these 5-inch mid-rise shorts. This belted pair nips the waist without binding and the length stops right at the mid-thigh for a short-but-not-too-short fit. The neutral toffee or olive green colors coordinate with different shirts and come in sizes 14W to 24W.
Every closet needs at least one pair of workout shorts. Cut loose and made of fast-drying woven polyester with mesh inserts, these UA running shorts wick away unwanted moisture as you move. Find them in a slew of colors ranging from vibrant to neutral in sizes up to 3X.
