I'm 5'2, Here's 11 Best Petite Shorts I Found and Loved

As a petite woman, Aritzia is my best friend. I can find so many pieces there that I don't need to alter. These Effortless Shorts from Aritzia come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them a wardrobe staple. They're petite-friendly based on the measurements and customer reviews, and their sizing goes all the way down to XXS!

One buyer who is 4'11 said, "This short came very quickly. It is extremely flattering. I'm 4'ft 11 and 115lbs. It gave my bottom an A shape with a nice waist. I got it in black so it somewhat hides my rolls when I sit. It's not too think or thick. Perfect length. It smells nice too. This is definitely worth the price and will be a stable piece. I love this so much.

These shorts are pricey, but for good reason. Made in the USA, they’re crafted from premium denim with hand-distressed details that give them a unique, worn-in look. The fit is flattering, especially for petites, as the 5-inch length is perfect—not too short, but just right for showing off the legs. The raw hem and subtle distressing add a touch of edge without being overdone. You’re definitely paying for the quality and craftsmanship, but if you’re looking for a pair of denim shorts that’ll last, flatter your figure, and stand out in your wardrobe, these are worth the splurge.

I found these Mid Rise Denim Mini Shorts from Glassons on TikTok, where a petite girl who’s 5’1" was raving about them, and it’s easy to see why. The mid-rise cut sits just right on the waist, and the vintage wash gives them a casual, lived-in vibe. They hit at the perfect spot on the thigh, making them ideal for petites who often struggle with shorts that are either too long or too short. I also love how the denim is soft yet sturdy - I definitely will be purchasing these when they have my size back in stock.

One verified buyer said, "Love the fit of these shorts, the mid rise, and how it’s loose around the thigh. I also really like that they were hemmed. please bring these back next summer too!!"

I discovered the Dee Shorts from Agolde through a petite Instagram influencer, and they’re a game-changer. The 3.5-inch inseam hits the perfect spot on the thigh, and the high-rise waist elongates your figure. If these are sold out, any of the Dee shorts in a different wash are a great alternative. They have the same flattering fit, comfortable relaxed vibe, and vintage look that works well on petites. I’d pair these with a crisp white t-shirt, my New Balance sneakers with ankle socks, and a statement belt for a cute and casual spring look.

One verified petite buyer said, "Shorts are cute! These run true to size unlike most Agolde shorts. I am 5’3” 115lb and wear a sz 24 in the Parker but sz 25 in these because they are a tighter fit."

Banana Republic’s Soho Linen Shorts now come in a petite length (!!), which is huge for shorter girls. They have that perfect relaxed-but-polished fit, so you can dress them up with a blazer or throw them on with a tank and sandals. Plus, they’re 40% off right now (discount applied at checkout).

The linen fabric is super breathable for warm weather, and since they come in petites, you don’t have to worry about weirdly long inseams or getting them tailored. 

Fabric Composition: 100% linen

Abercrombie has been killing it when it comes to size inclusivity, offering petite lengths in their denim jeans and a Curve Love collection for those who need more room in the hips and thighs. Their Dad Denim Shorts are a best-seller for a reason—they have that perfect relaxed, vintage-inspired fit without being too baggy. The high-rise waist is super flattering, and the slightly longer length gives great coverage while still feeling effortless. Plus, the raw hem makes them easy to customize—if they’re too long, you can just trim them yourself instead of making a trip to the tailor. Whether you go for the standard fit or the Curve Love version for my petite curvy girls, these are a solid pick.

I have the Sail Shorts from Aritzia in white, and they were my go-to all summer long. They’re super lightweight, comfortable, and so easy to throw on—whether over a bikini or for a casual stroll in the city. The relaxed fit and high-rise waist make them really flattering, especially for petites, since they don’t overwhelm a smaller frame. The fabric is soft but structured enough to hold its shape, and the elastic waistband makes them effortless to wear. If you want an easy, versatile pair of shorts that work for everything from beach days to running errands, these are a must.

These Levi's Mid Thigh Shorts are a solid pick and come in a bunch of different cuts and colors. At $60, they’re super reasonable for denim that actually lasts—just like all my Levi’s do. The longer inseam gives a bit more coverage while still feeling effortless, and since they’re Levi’s, you know they’ll only get better with wear. Size up for a more baggy look!

One petite buyer said, "Love these shorts! I’m 5ft & 130lbs, my waist is 28” & my hips are 41” so I followed the size guide & ordered a size 27, the fit is almost perfect. I’m an hour glass shape so I have a hard time finding bottoms of any kind that do me justice & don’t give me a pancake butt or have way too much gapping in the back (these shorts don’t & they only have a little bit of gapping in the back)."

Made from 100% European linen, these high-rise drawstring shorts from Quince are super petite-friendly! They come in a bunch of colors, and so many customers rave about the quality—so much so that they end up buying a second (or even third) pair for the affordable price.