Vintage Jean Shorts are Back, Here's Where to Buy Yours
Set the dad jokes aside. Jorts are officially back.
Navigating how to dress in the heat is one of the many trials and tribulations of summer. Lucky for us, celebrity style icons Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, and Gigi Hadid are revealing the newest trend for summer 2023: vintage jean shorts. When it comes to off-duty style, there's one timeless piece that seems to reign supreme in celebrity wardrobes: vintage denim shorts. From street-style snaps to paparazzi shots, these iconic shorts have become a go-to for stars looking to infuse a touch of retro cool into their ensembles.
Leading the pack is none other than the queen of vintage herself, Zoë Kravitz. With her effortlessly chic aesthetic, Kravitz is often spotted rocking distressed denim shorts paired with a vintage tee or a cropped tank, exuding an edgy yet laid-back vibe that's become synonymous with her signature style.
Joining her in the ranks of vintage jean shorts aficionados is Gigi Hadid, who effortlessly blends high fashion with retro flair. Whether she's strutting down the streets of New York or lounging beachside, Hadid knows how to elevate a pair of vintage denim shorts with statement accessories and killer footwear, proving that old-school cool never goes out of style.
Meanwhile, Kendall Jenner brings her own brand of model-off-duty chic to the table, frequently stepping out in vintage denim cutoffs paired with oversized blazers or slouchy sweaters for an effortlessly cool look that's equal parts fashion-forward and relaxed.
But it's not just the It-girls of Hollywood who are embracing the vintage denim trend. Rihanna has been known to rock a pair of distressed denim shorts with attitude, often adding her own unique twist with bold accessories and standout heels that take the look from casual to commanding in an instant.
With the stamp of approval from luxury brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy, jean shorts are one of the hottest recycled fashion trends for this summer. If you grew up in the '90s, you remember parting ways with your jean shorts upon the increasing popularity of itty-bitty Daisy Dukes. Conversely, the cheeky, tight-fitting look has officially been overthrown by pre-loved denim shorts, hitting the lower half of the thigh to right above the knee. The Eminem-core denim that defined the era of the early '90s has once again resurfaced, and it is gaining momentum quickly.
Whether they're hitting the festival circuit or simply running errands around town, these celebrities prove that vintage denim shorts are a wardrobe staple that never goes out of style. So why not take a cue from the stars and add a pair of retro cutoffs to your own summer rotation? After all, when it comes to effortless cool, nothing beats the timeless appeal of vintage denim.
The renewed interest in the vintage jean shorts trend is tempting millennials everywhere to take scissors to their tapered boyfriend jeans. However, if you can't bring yourself to cut into your Levi's 510s, L'OFFICIEL has got you covered with a lookbook of seven pairs of vintage-inspired jean shorts worthy of a spot in your closet, so you too can join in on the nostalgia.
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The Levi's 501 '90s Shorts in Light Indigo are a must-have to replicate Gigi Hadid's Y2K skater girl aesthetic. Known for their timeless style and exceptional quality, these vintage jean shorts are designed to fit comfortably without sacrificing their slim-fit silhouette. The Light Indigo wash is complimented by a yellow stitching that contributes to the fading and distressing throughout, not to mention the iconic logo patch on the back waistband. These vintage jean shorts are an essential piece to your capsule wardrobe and will pair well with any baby tee or tank top to stay cool in the summer heat.
Levi's 501 '90s Shorts, $85, Ssense
These vintage jean shorts from Frame are a necessity if your mood board for Summer 2023 is that of the sophisticated It girl. Sitting low on the hip with a loose fit, Frame's shorts are a must-have for those who are not a fan of low-rise bottoms. Compliment the high-rise waistline on these vintage jean shorts with a white blouse to exude a more casual, daytime vibe, or pair them with an oversized blazer and a pair of kitten heels to elevate your look and channel your inner Hailey Bieber.
Frame High-Rise Bermuda Denim Shorts, $218, Saks Fifth Avenue
If your vibe this summer is the Vanilla Girl aesthetic, the Marlow Long Short in Polish deserves a front-row seat in your wardrobe. Measuring at approximately 16" in length, these vintage jean shorts are the epitome of the tight-top and loose-bottoms look that has taken over our Pinterest boards. Seeking to create luxury denim with an uncompromising focus on quality, fit, and wash, Citizens of Humanity tailors to those with a classic, minimalistic taste for fashion. The timeless and clean look of white vintage jean shorts can be paired with a pair of loafers and a loose button-down, as well as a simple gold hoop to tie the look together.
Marlow Long Short, $228, Revolve
Offering a slightly more eccentric take on vintage jean cutoffs is the Agolde Criss-Cross Denim Shorts in Symbol Light Indigo. Featuring an asymmetric crossover waistline and a distressed hem, these shorts are a subtle way to spice up a look that will never go out of style: denim with a white tee. A loyal fan of criss-cross denim is American model Kendall Jenner, as she is repeatably photographed wearing this style bottom with a tiny crop top to accentuate her figure. The Agolde Criss-Cross Denim Shorts are a perfect fit for anyone looking for comfortable vintage jean shorts that cater to all body types.
Agolde Criss-Cross Denim Shorts, $178, Saks Fifth Avenue
These high-rise denim shorts from Gucci are a dream for those seeking to nail the old-money look. Made from pure cotton denim, these vintage jean shorts are the ultimate addition to elevate your summer wardrobe. The subtle accent of the GG canvas on the inside lining compliments the washed-out and faded appearance of the denim and can be paired with a light blouse and neutral shoes to maintain the timeless appeal of the high-end luxury fashion house.
Gucci High-rise denim shorts, $980, Mytheresa
It is crucial to have a reliable pair of black shorts in your outfit rotation this summer, and the MSGM Wide-Leg Denim Shorts are just the right pair. Designed to be fitted at the waist and loose over the leg, these vintage jean shorts can be worn comfortably throughout the day without losing their shape. The pink contrast stitching along the pockets and the waistline offer a subtle pop of color and can be worn with a pair of kitten heels for a more elegant evening, or your worn-in combat boots for a more edgy, grunge-style appeal.
MSGM Wide-Leg Denim Shorts, $158, Farfetch
