The Best Women’s Shorts That Fit and Flatter Women Over 40 of Any Shape
When the temperature climbs, nothing feels as cool and carefree as a great pair of shorts. Yet many women over 40 avoid them altogether – worried about their legs, unsure which length is “appropriate” or simply frustrated because they’ve never found a pair that fits. The truth is that there is no age limit on shorts – you can wear shorts at any age, and if you want to wear shorts, you should. Our bodies change as we get older, so it’s simply about finding shorts that fit well. The secret is choosing the right cut, length and fabric for your body shape, and styling them in a way that feels polished and confident.
In this guide we cover everything you need to know: how to choose shorts that flatter you, a simple guide to shorts lengths and inseams, the best shorts for every body shape (including a tummy), 18 shorts styles from Bermudas to linen and denim, what to wear with shorts, outfit ideas for every occasion, and tips if you feel self-conscious about your legs.
How to Choose Shorts That Flatter You Over 40
1. Your body type
Each body type suits different cuts and a different silhouette. A pear shape looks great in darker, A-line shorts that skim the hips; an hourglass in high-waisted, fitted styles; an inverted triangle in wider, flowy shorts; an apple in flat-front, mid-rise shorts with a longer top. More on each shape below.
2. Your height
The most flattering length depends on your height. If you’re petite, avoid very long shorts, heavy pleats, big bows and wide cuffs, which can shorten your legs. A 4–5 inch inseam or a slim Bermuda that ends just above the knee keeps your proportions balanced. Taller women can wear longer shorts and wide-leg styles beautifully.
3. Your legs and your comfort
Many women feel self-conscious about veins, cellulite, scars or knees. You have three options: wear the shorts anyway and enjoy the comfort; choose a longer length that covers what you’d rather not show; or try smoothing shorts, self-tanner or a longer style such as culottes. There is no right or wrong – only what makes you feel good.
4. Your lifestyle
Think about where you’ll wear your shorts: the beach, city sightseeing, the office, hiking or dinner. Tailored linen and pleated shorts dress up easily; denim, chino and walking shorts suit casual days.
A Guide to Shorts Lengths and Inseams
Length is a personal choice – short, mid-length and long are all valid. Here’s how the most common inseams compare:
| Length | Inseam | Where it ends | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short shorts | 2–3 inches | Upper thigh | The beach, long legs, confident casual style |
| Mid-length | 4–5 inches | Mid-thigh | Most women, petite women, everyday wear |
| Long shorts | 7 inches | Above the knee | Covering the upper thigh, walking, travel |
| Bermuda | 9–11 inches | 1–2 inches above the knee | Polished looks, rectangle and hourglass shapes, taller women |
| Knee-length / city shorts | 12 inches+ | At or just below the knee | Fashion-forward, dressy and work outfits |
Tip: the most flattering hem usually ends at a slimmer part of your leg – the sweet spot for most women is somewhere between mid-length shorts and a 7 inch inseam. Also check the leg opening: a slightly wider opening skims the thigh and looks more flattering than a tight one. Stand in front of a mirror and find where your thigh narrows above the knee – that’s often your perfect length.
The Best Shorts for Every Body Shape
| Body shape | Best shorts | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Pear | Dark, A-line, flowy or flared shorts that skim hips and thighs; flat front | Light, tight shorts with side pockets and cargo details |
| Apple | Mid-rise, flat-front, straight shorts with a longer top or tunic | Pleats, paperbag waists, very high rises that cut into the tummy |
| Hourglass | High-waisted, fitted, retro styles with a belt | Boxy, low-rise shorts that hide your waist |
| Rectangle | Almost any cut – paperbag, pleated, cargo or flowy to add curves | Nothing in particular – experiment! |
| Inverted triangle | Wide, flowy shorts, culottes, cargo pockets and lighter colors | Very tight, short shorts with a bulky top |
Shorts for pear shapes
Choose darker shorts in a fabric that skims rather than clings, with a slight A-line or flare. A mid-length inseam that hits below the widest part of the thigh is ideal. Draw the eye up with a brighter, patterned or ruffled top.
Shorts for apple shapes
Flat-front, mid-rise shorts with a smooth waistband are most comfortable. Wear a looser top, tunic or open shirt over the waistband, and show off your legs – they’re often a great feature for apple shapes.
Shorts for hourglass figures
Celebrate your waist with high-waisted, belted, retro-style shorts and a tucked or tied top. Stretch fabrics help shorts fit both curvy hips and a smaller waist.
Shorts for rectangle shapes
You can wear almost any shorts. Paperbag waists, pleats, belts and cargo pockets add curves; fitted or flowy styles both work.
Shorts for inverted triangles
Balance broader shoulders with wide, flowy shorts or culottes, interesting pockets, prints or lighter colors on the bottom, and a simple, darker top.
What are the best shorts if you have a tummy?
To smooth the tummy area, look for a flat front, a wide smooth waistband and a mid or high rise that sits comfortably without digging in. Pair high-waisted shorts with a tucked or half-tucked top, or mid-rise shorts with a loose, longer top. Avoid pleats, paperbag waists and front pockets that add bulk.
18 Shorts Styles for Women Over 40
1. Bermuda shorts
Fitted, straight shorts that end one or two inches above the knee. Bermudas are the most polished and versatile shorts for women over 40, especially rectangles, hourglasses and taller women. Choose a slim to straight leg rather than very wide. Wear with a tucked shirt, loafers or slides and a structured bag.
2. High waisted tailored shorts (short pants)
These dressier shorts – sometimes called short pants – are made from suiting fabrics with pressed creases and a waistband, and look smart enough for the city or a summer office. Add a belt and a tucked top, or a matching blazer for a short suit.
3. Pleated shorts
Front pleats add room through the hips and a fashionable, preppy look. They suit most shapes – especially rectangles – as long as the fabric is good quality and the pleats lie flat. Knee-length pleated shorts look particularly current.
4. Paperbag shorts
A gathered, tie-waist high rise creates a defined waist and makes legs look longer. Best for rectangles and hourglasses; apple shapes may prefer a flat front.
5. Flowy and wide-leg shorts
Loose, floaty shorts in soft fabrics look like a mini skirt and are cool, comfortable and forgiving. Perfect for pears and inverted triangles. A flowy skort version offers extra coverage.
6. High-waisted flare shorts
Flared, skirt-like shorts with a high waist look dressy and feminine. Pair them with a tucked top, wedges and a cropped cardigan.
7. Linen shorts
Light, breathable and effortlessly chic, linen shorts are perfect for hot days and vacations. Wear them with a matching linen shirt for a relaxed coordinated set.
8. Denim and jean shorts
Love the look of denim? Skip the frayed cut-offs and choose longer, high-waisted denim shorts or denim Bermudas in a clean wash. White denim shorts look fresh with navy and stripes; black denim shorts (or any black shorts) are sleek and easy to dress up; high-waisted denim shorts with a tucked tee lengthen the legs.
9. Chino and twill shorts
Classic button-front chino or cotton twill shorts in khaki, navy or white are timeless and versatile. Roll the hem once for a relaxed look.
10. Utility and cargo shorts
Khaki, olive or blue utility shorts with patch pockets are practical for travel, safaris and casual outings. The pockets add volume, so they’re great for rectangles and inverted triangles.
11. Long shorts and city shorts
Knee-length shorts are very on trend. They look fashion-forward with a fitted top and loafers, or as part of a coordinated set.
12. Printed shorts
Floral, paisley or striped shorts add fun to vacation outfits. Keep the top plain and pick a color from the print.
13. Silk and satin shorts
Silky shorts with a matching camisole or blouse look luxurious for dinners, holidays and summer evenings.
14. Skorts
A skirt in front with shorts underneath, a skort gives you the look of a skirt with the freedom and coverage of shorts – great for travel, golf, tennis and windy days.
15. Culottes and dress capris
If you prefer more coverage, culottes or elegant cropped capris that end below the knee are dressy enough for formal summer occasions with heeled sandals.
16. Walking and athletic shorts
Mid-length, stretchy, quick-dry shorts with pockets are ideal for errands, hikes, yoga and Pilates.
17. Lounge and knit shorts
Soft knit shorts in jersey or French terry are comfortable for relaxing at home or traveling.
18. Swim and board shorts
Quick-dry swim shorts or high-waisted board shorts are a great option at the beach or pool if you prefer more coverage than a bikini bottom.
Shorts for Work and Dressier Occasions
Yes, shorts can work in a relaxed summer office or at a smart-casual event. Choose tailored shorts in darker shades or a matching shorts and blazer set, and dress them up with a silk blouse, a structured bag and heels or loafers. For a dressier look, a knee-length short suit with sheer tights or bare legs and pointed pumps looks modern and elegant.
The Best Fabrics for Shorts in Warm Weather
| Fabric | Why we love it | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Linen and linen blends | Cool, breathable, effortlessly chic | Hot weather, vacations |
| Cotton twill / chino | Structured, durable, classic | Everyday wear |
| Denim with stretch | Comfortable, shapes the figure | Casual outfits |
| Crepe and suiting | Drapes beautifully, looks polished | Work and dressy occasions |
| Silk and satin | Luxurious, fluid | Evenings, holidays |
| Technical stretch | Quick-dry, flexible | Walking, hiking, sport |
What to Wear with Shorts
Tops
Balance is key. Wear a longer or looser top with short shorts, and a shorter, tucked or fitted top with longer shorts. A half tuck creates a waist and lengthens the legs. Great options include linen and cotton shirts, striped tees, silk camisoles, fitted knits, wrap tops and blouses.
Shoes
| Shoes | Best with |
|---|---|
| Flat sandals and slides | Linen, denim and flowy shorts |
| Espadrilles and wedges | Bermudas, flare shorts – they lengthen the legs |
| Loafers and ballet flats | Tailored, pleated and chino shorts |
| White sneakers | Denim, chino and utility shorts |
| Heeled sandals and pumps | Work shorts, short suits, silk shorts |
Tip: nude or skin-tone shoes and a slight wedge visually lengthen your legs.
Layers
A cropped cardigan, a linen blazer, a denim jacket or an open shirt adds polish and covers the arms if you prefer.
Accessories
A belt defines the waist, a straw or structured bag finishes the look, and sunglasses, a hat and simple gold jewelry add effortless summer style.
10 Shorts Outfit Ideas for Women Over 40
- City sightseeing: navy Bermuda shorts, a striped tee, white sneakers and a crossbody bag.
- Beach vacation: white linen shorts, a matching linen shirt, flat sandals and a straw hat.
- Weekend brunch: high-waisted denim shorts, a half-tucked white tee, espadrilles and a denim jacket.
- Summer office: a black tailored shorts suit, a silk camisole and pointed pumps.
- Garden party: printed flowy shorts, a solid blouse and wedge sandals.
- Dinner out: silk shorts with a matching camisole, heeled sandals and gold jewelry.
- Travel day: chino shorts, a linen button-down, slides and a tote.
- Safari or day trip: khaki utility shorts, a white linen shirt, a hat and walking sandals.
- Active day: walking shorts, a breathable tee, trail sneakers and a cap.
- Elegant summer event: knee-length pleated shorts, a tucked blouse, a belt and slingbacks.
Styling Tips for Wearing Shorts Over 40
- Get your shorts hemmed – a tailor can adjust them to your most flattering length.
- Avoid shorts that are too tight across the thighs or seat – size up for a smoother line.
- Avoid short and tight together: choose looser cuts for shorter lengths, and longer lengths for fitted styles.
- Balance proportions: longer top with shorter shorts, tucked or cropped top with longer shorts.
- Choose a flat front if you want less bulk at the tummy.
- Try sheer tights with dressy shorts in spring and fall for an elegant look.
- Check the back view – shorts shouldn’t ride up or pull across the seat.
- Play with colors or prints: a navy, white or khaki pair is a great choice to start, then add a printed pair you’ll wear all season long.
- Prevent chafing with anti-chafe balm or lightweight smoothing shorts under flowy styles.
Feeling Self-Conscious About Your Legs?
You’re not alone – and you still deserve to be cool and comfortable in summer. Try these ideas:
- Choose a longer Bermuda or knee-length short that covers your upper thigh.
- Use a gradual self-tanner or leg makeup to even out skin tone.
- Pick wider, flowy styles or culottes that skim rather than cling.
- Wear nude wedges or espadrilles to lengthen and slim the leg line.
- Remember that most people notice your confidence far more than your legs. If you like to wear shorts, you’ll look great in them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 40 year old wear shorts?
Absolutely. Women of any age can wear shorts. Choose a cut, length and fabric that flatters your shape and makes you feel confident.
What shorts should a 40 year old woman wear?
Mid-length or Bermuda shorts with a mid or high rise, a flat front and a slightly relaxed leg opening are the easiest to wear. Linen, chino, tailored and dark denim shorts are versatile choices.
What are the most flattering shorts for older women?
Bermuda shorts, flowy A-line shorts and high waisted tailored shorts in quality fabrics are the most flattering for older women. Choose a length that ends at a slimmer part of the leg.
What are some good shorts for women over 40?
Good options include linen shorts, denim Bermudas, pleated trouser shorts, chino or twill shorts, paperbag shorts, skorts and comfortable knit shorts for lounging.
What length of shorts is best for a 50-year-old woman?
Any length you feel comfortable in. Many women over 50 like a 5–7 inch inseam or a Bermuda that ends just above the knee, but short shorts are fine at the beach if you love them.
What shorts are best for a 60-year-old woman?
Focus on your body shape rather than your age. Tailored Bermudas, linen shorts, flat-front chino shorts and flowy shorts are comfortable and flattering choices.
Can a 70-year-old woman wear shorts?
Yes. Shorts are practical and comfortable at any age. Longer, well-fitting styles in breathable fabrics look polished and stylish.
What are the most flattering shorts for women over 40?
Mid-length, high-waisted shorts with a flat front flatter most figures, along with Bermuda shorts and flowy A-line shorts.
What shorts are best for a tummy?
Flat-front shorts with a smooth, wide waistband and a mid or high rise. Pair them with a loose top or half tuck.
What shoes look best with shorts?
Flat sandals, slides, espadrilles, wedges, loafers, ballet flats and white sneakers. Nude shoes and wedges help lengthen the legs.
Are Bermuda shorts flattering?
Yes, when they fit well. Choose a slim to straight leg that ends one to two inches above the knee, and pair them with a tucked or fitted top.
Find the Best Shorts for You
Your perfect shorts are out there – you just need to find shorts that suit your shape. The best shorts for women over 40 are the ones that fit your body, suit your lifestyle and make you feel confident. It can take time to find a pair you love, so start with your body shape and preferred length, choose quality fabrics like linen and stretch cotton, and balance your proportions with the right top and shoes. With a few great pairs, you’ll be ready for every sunny day.
