Best Shorts for Your Body Type

Even if you don’t have model-perfect legs, there is a pair of shorts out there that will flatter your figure and help you bare those gams without feeling self-conscious. Finding shorts that not only fit you properly, but also make you feel comfortable and carefree, can be challenging. Fortunately, you have several different cuts and styles to choose from and you’ll need to seek out a pair that suits your body type.

Whether you’re hitting the resort for the season or just playing it cool at home, use these tips to find the best shorts for your body type:

Shorts for Plus Size Figures
When you want to camouflage heavy legs or draw attention only to your calves and ankles, stick with a pair of flat-front, tailored shorts that end right above the knee. Tailored shorts are a much better fit for plus-size figures than baggy shorts or bulky styles that will only add more weight to your lower half. Wear shorts in darker colors made with lightweight materials, and choose a simple cut that won’t draw attention to your thighs and waist.

If you want to hide a tummy, avoid shorts that require wearing a belt because this style will draw attention to your lower waist. A pair of shorts that sits lower on the waist can balance out a top heavy figure and help to create a more elongated silhouette.

Shorts for Petite Figures
Since your goal is to elongate your legs when you have a petite figure, don’t be afraid to show some leg with some super-short shorts and shorts with a tighter fit. If you do choose a longer style, make sure it’s a form-fitting cut – not one that will add more weight to your lower half and make you look shorter and heavier. The most slimming styles for petite figures are the straight-cut, simple styles that are free of ruffles, pleats and other accents. Avoid shorts with cuffs and pleats, because these can actually make you look smaller than you are. Stick with simple cuts and choose structured, tailored styles to show off those legs!

Shorts for Athletic or Boyish Figures
When you want to add curves and avoid an overly masculine look, choose relaxed shorts and shorts that are tighter around the hips. These styles add that much-needed feminine curve and will flatter your figure best. You can also pull off the tomboy-ish look with a pair of boy shorts. These are a great match for those lucky women with sculpted calves and killer legs. If you’ve got the figure for it, don’t be afraid to sport shorts that end several inches above the knee.

Shorts for Skinny and Lean Body Types
If you’re fairly skinny and have long, lean legs, you can get away with wearing both loose-fitting and fitted shorts in most lengths. However, you need to balance out your look with the right top. Avoid very baggy shorts or shorts with pleats and ruffles if you’re wearing a loose-fitting top – these styles will make you look like you’re floating in fabric and won’t do anything for your figure. Wear fitted shorts with a button-down, fitted blouse or fitted tee to create a smooth silhouette.

Stick with chino shorts and straight-cut shorts that end above the knee for your casual days, and for any outfits where you don’t want to show a lot of skin. The super-short short is a great match for you if you have long and lean legs. Show those legs off and pair the outfit with a v-neck tee or form-fitting top you can tuck in for a head-turning look this season!