Women's Low-Rise Shorts

Low-rise shorts sit right at that sweet spot: enough coverage to feel comfortable, cut low enough to show off a high-rise moment when you want it. The AE Stretch Super Low-Rise Denim Perfect Shortie and the AE Next Level Low-Rise Denim Short Short are built for the kind of days that start at the beach and end somewhere else entirely. Pair them with a tank top or tube top for the easiest outfit you'll throw on all season.

The Details That Make Low-Rise Shorts Work

Stretch denim does a lot of the heavy lifting here. The AE Stretch Low-Rise Ex-Boyfriend Denim Short has a relaxed, lived-in shape without going full baggy, and the AE Stretch Low-Rise Pull-On Short skips the button entirely for a waistband that actually gives. Next Level denim adds a little more give in all the right places, so the fit holds up whether you're moving around or just standing still.

• The Perfect Shortie cut hits high on the thigh with a clean, minimal hem.
• Ex-Boyfriend fit gives a looser seat and thigh for a more relaxed silhouette.

Style Them Simple

Low-rise shorts work best when the top stays easy. A cropped graphic tee tied at the front or worn loose both land right. The AE Stretch Low-Rise Cargo Short Short has enough going on with the pockets that you don't need much else. Light wash, dark wash, white denim: each one reads differently, so the same cut gives you a few different outfits just by swapping the rinse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do low-rise shorts sit on the waist?

Low-rise shorts sit below the natural waist, usually a few inches above the hip. The exact placement varies by style, but the waistband generally falls closer to the hip bone than the navel.

Do low-rise denim shorts stretch out after wearing?

Denim with added elastane tends to stretch slightly with wear, especially in the seat and thighs. Sizing down a half size can help maintain the fit longer, particularly in styles with a lot of stretch built in.

What tops work best with low-rise shorts?

Cropped or mid-length tops balance the low waistline without overwhelming the proportions. A fitted tank top, a cropped graphic tee, or a tied button-down all work well depending on the look you're going for.