What’s the Best Length for Shorts? Here’s What I’ve Learned (and What You Should Know)

I’ll admit it—shopping for shorts used to be something I dreaded. Between the sizing inconsistencies, odd hemlines, and that weird middle ground between “am I covered?” and “am I drowning?”, it felt like there was no winning. But after years of trial, error, returns, and research—not to mention working behind the scenes at Tellar.co.uk—I’ve learnt there is a science to finding the perfect short length.

If you’ve ever stood in a fitting room wondering why a pair looks great on the hanger but awkward on your body, chances are… it’s the length. So in this post, I’m breaking down what I’ve discovered about short lengths: what works for different body types, which brands get it right, and how you can find the perfect fit without trying on 30 pairs.

First—What Does “Short Length” Actually Mean?

Let’s get technical for a second. When we talk about the length of shorts, we’re mostly referring to the inseam—that’s the distance from the crotch seam to the hem. It’s a much more reliable measurement than the “outseam,” which varies based on rise height.

Here’s a quick breakdown I always keep in mind:

2–3" inseam = very short. Think running shorts, hot pants.
4–5" inseam = short but wearable. Great for petites or hot weather.
6–7" inseam = mid-length. The sweet spot for most bodies.
8–9"+ inseam = long-line or Bermuda. Great for office or smart-casual looks.

→ I’ve detailed this further in our Shorts Styles Guide if you want to see how these play out across styles.

The Truth About Length: It’s Not Just About Style

Short length isn't just aesthetic—it’s functional. The right inseam can change the way you move, sit, and feel throughout the day.

For example, I’ve worn 4-inch denim shorts that looked amazing standing up but felt like sandpaper when I sat down for lunch. On the flip side, a pair of 9-inch linen Bermudas saved me during a heatwave work event—cool, breezy, and not even slightly inappropriate.

Here’s what I now consider when choosing short length:

Function: What will I be doing? (Walking, lounging, dancing, travelling…)
Proportion: What’s my body shape? (Am I long-legged? Curvy-hipped? Petite?)
Fabric: Is the material stiff, structured, stretchy, or soft?

Short Lengths by Body Type: What Works for Me (and Might Work for You)

We’re all different—but these are the general guidelines I’ve followed (and confirmed with Tellar’s data) when recommending shorts:

If You’re Petite (< 5’4”)

Go short, but not extreme. A 3–4" inseam visually lengthens the leg without looking like swimwear.

Try: & Other Stories, Topshop, Reformation.

→ Shorts for Petite Body Types – Full Guide

If You’re Tall (> 5’9”)

Mid-to-long shorts tend to look more balanced. Short-shorts can sometimes feel like underwear if your legs are long.

Try: The Row, Massimo Dutti, COS.

→ We’ve written about this in What Type of Shorts Suit Tall Body Shapes

If You’re Curvy

The key is length and structure. Shorts that hit mid-thigh (5–7") with a bit of tailoring work wonders—no riding, no bunching.

Try: Good American, Levi’s, Reiss.

→ More on this in our Curvy Fit Guide

Choosing the Right Length for the Occasion

One of my biggest discoveries? You can wear shorts just about anywhere… if you get the length and fabric right.

Smart casual/workwear: Opt for 9–11" Bermudas in cotton-linen blends or tailored crepe. Pair with a blouse or shirt and you’re good to go.
My picks: ME+EM, Jigsaw, Arket.
Casual weekends: I always reach for 6–7" relaxed-fit cotton shorts. Just enough coverage, still flattering, and versatile with tank tops or button-downs.
Holidays/beach: This is where I pull out the 3–4" linen shorts. Breezy, loose, and perfect with a bikini top or oversized tee.
Brands I love: Sezane, AllSaints, Faithfull the Brand.

→ We explored this fully in Shorts Trends 2025 if you’re after style ideas.

One Thing People Forget: Fabric Affects Fit Too

A 5" short in silk does not behave like a 5" short in denim. The drape, rigidity, and weight of the fabric will all affect how the length feels.

Fabric	Feels Shorter or Longer?	Best Inseam
Denim	Feels shorter (stiff)	5–7"
Linen	Feels longer (drapes)	6–9"
Jersey	Flexible, clings	2–4"
Tailored cotton	Holds shape	8–10"

→ If you want to dive deeper, check out Our Guide to Shorts Fabrics

How Tellar.co.uk Helped Me Finally Get It Right

Before I joined Tellar, I didn’t realise how different sizing and lengths are from brand to brand. A UK 10 at Zara is not the same as a UK 10 at Reiss—and neither are their inseams.

That’s why we built Tellar.co.uk—to match your exact body measurements with actual data from 1,500+ brands, including the length and fit of their shorts.

You just enter your measurements (or your known size in a store), and we calculate your ideal size and cut instantly. No more guesswork. No more returns.

→ Start here – It’s free and easy

Already know your go-to brands? Try the Store Size Lookup tool and see your best short options in seconds.

Quick Tips I Always Remember When Buying Shorts

Sit-test: If it rides up when I sit, it’s too short for real life.
Thigh line test: Shorts that hit the widest part of my thigh? No thanks. I size up or go longer.
Mirror check: If I look at myself side-on and keep adjusting… it’s not the right length.

Final Thought: Your Ideal Short Length Is Personal—but There’s a Formula

There’s no single best short length. But there is a best short length for you. With the right combination of inseam, fabric, and fit, shorts can be a year-round staple—not just a holiday gamble.

And if you want help cutting through the noise? That’s what we’re here for.

→ Create your free Tellar profile today

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