The Best Madewell Shorts: denim, linen and more

One of my go-to brands for shorts is Madewell. They have a ton of styles, great prices and regular sales, every size under the rainbow (they are extremely size inclusive and have great curvy jean short options), multiple rises, and a variety of colors and washes. If you have the option to drop by in person at one of their stores, you can visit the Madewell Denim Bar, which has an extensive selection of jeans and denim shorts to try on.

With so many options, however, it can be a challenge to figure out how to narrow down which ones are best for your body type and preferences, especially if you are shopping online. In today’s post, I’m sharing a roundup of the best jean shorts, linen shorts, and more from Madewell along with my thoughts about each. Hopefully this helps you narrow down your favorites or find a new pair to love! They have a cult following for good reason and I’ll get into all of the details in this post.

The Best Madewell Shorts: denim, linen and more

Madewell Jean Shorts

In the past, the issue I had with Madewell jean shorts was the sizing discrepancy. From pair to pair, I was anywhere from a 23 to a 25, which was super frustrating. However, last year (2023), it seemed like they’ve corrected that issue because everything fit true to size. Not everything I ordered last year is still available, so I just placed another Madewell order that includes a few pairs of this season’s shorts. I’ll be sure to add my thoughts on fit and sizing below once my order arrives.

I will note, however, that I tried a pair of dad jean shorts from Abercrombie this spring and absolutely love them (see how I styled the shorts in this video). If I was going to tell you to pick just ONE pair of denim shorts to buy this year, I would be those. Love you Madewell, but Abercrombie Dad Shorts have you beat!

The Perfect Vintage Mid-Length Jean Short

First, the The Perfect Vintage Mid-Length Jean Short. I was first introduced to Madewell’s Perfect Vintage style over 5 years ago when I was shopping for some non-skinny jeans. I LOVED the fit of the pair I found, so I quickly ordered the shorts version last year. I love that the length is considered “mid”. Not too short, not too long. The inseam is 5″, which feels perfect for an almost-40-year-old mom.

These are a high-rise (my preference), and made with just a touch of stretch. I also appreciate that the fit isn’t tight against the thigh. While they fit TTS last year, the reviews on this year’s shorts say they run just a tad small, so keep that in mind. If you like your jean shorts to be a big baggy, I’d recommend sizing up in ANY pair you get.

The main difference between these and the Relaxed Jean Shorts (since the Perfect Jean Shorts also have looser and longer fitting styles this year) is the stretch. These are made with a blend of cotton and elastane, so Madewell considers them “comfort stretch”. While this isn’t my preference, I have many friends who love a stretchy denim short, and to their point, they really are comfortable, just not my preference.

I’m eyeing the Fitzgerald wash too!

Relaxed Mid-Length Denim Shorts

I ordered a pair of the Relaxed Mid-Length Denim Shorts last year and loved them. They’re similar to the Perfect Vintage style but they sit lower on the hips and have zero stretch. They’re made to have a relaxed fit, but if you size down, they will sit a bit higher on your hips. This year’s styles are in a few different washes, but the Wengler Wash: Step-Hem Edition is my favorite because it reminds me so much of the Agolde Parker Long shorts. These also have a 5″ inseam which is perfect for us moms.

The photos below are from last years’ colorway which is still available in a few sizes (on major sale).

Patch-Pocket Denim Shorts in Earlwood Wash

I ordered was the Patch-Pocket Denim Shorts last year and LOVED them. The front pocket detail is so fun, and it feels more polished than most denim shorts. One thing to note is that they run small, and it’s important that you tuck your shirt in to the front of these so that it’s obvious your shorts aren’t on backwards! One huge selling point for this pair is the A-line cut which gives the leg opening a ton of space. If you hate when your shorts hug your thighs, you will love this style.

The inseam on these shorts is shorter than the styles above (3″), but the polished front pockets make them feel a more appropriate for a mom than a pair of 3″ cut-offs. Size up!

The blue wash is current unavailable, but I love the white version too.

Madewell Tailored and Pull-On Shorts

Clean Pull-On Shorts in Linen-Cotton

This pair, the Clean Pull On Shorts, was one of my favorite finds from last year (I honestly just loved the color online and then once they arrived I REALLY loved the fit). These are a linen/cotton blend that has a tailored, flat front, balanced out with a stretchy, elastic waistline in the back that makes them easy to pull on and stay in all day.

The length is 3.5″, so while this would usually feel too short for me, the loose leg and high waist create the illusion that they’re longer than they are. I own these in a size XS and they fit true to size. Sadly the pink is not avaliable this year, but I love the tan linen for an everyday outfit.

Clean Button-Tab Shorts in 100% Linen

Similar to the pair above, the Clean Button-Tab Shorts in 100% Linen are an easy everyday pair of linen shorts. Except the Button-Tab adds a very polished touch that I love. I’ve had my eyes on the white pair for a few weeks and finally placed my order. I can’t wait for them to arrive! They have a 4″ inseam, and can be machine washed.

I’m planning to style them with this linen top (also from Madewell). If you’ve read my blog before, you know I’m a sucker for sets.

The Perfect Fatigue Mid-Length Short

I saw the dark plum color in these Mid-Length Fatigue Shorts last year and had to buy them. I love a utility/military style short that’s a touch more fun than normal. While last year’s shorts came in a 5″ length, this year’s style is a 3 1/2″ inseam, so they’ll be a bit shorter. They’re stretchy, which I love for a non-denim short, and they have a super flattering A-line shape.

The material is super soft, and they run very true to size (at least they did last year!!).

More to come as I find new favorites!

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