The 17 Best Denim Shorts For Bootylicous Women

Never did I think I’d hear myself complaining about having a big butt until I went shopping for denim shorts. Don’t get me wrong: I love my pronounced derrière to no end, but finding a good pair of shorts for big butts is a real struggle. For women who are on the curvier side, it can be challenging to find ones that work well with an extreme hip to waist ratio. It's not impossible, though.

As someone with a serious amount of junk in the trunk, I personally know how difficult it is to snag a pair of shorts that don't ride up, show off your butt cheeks, or gap in the back. Even worse is when you size up thinking the extra fabric will accommodate your tuchas, only to discover that the shorts fit your thighs but not your waist. Or that look super baggy and shapeless.

The truth is that not all shorts (or booties) are created equal. The key is figuring out a shape that works in your favor. Here are some general tips to think about when trying to find shorts that comfortably nestle your bum.

• Avoid super low rise cuts at all costs.
• Skip anything that is too short (search for three to four-inch inseams).
• Find shorts that sit on your waist rather than your hip line.
• Don’t buy anything with big, bulky pockets.
• Stay away from cuffs that are too tight around the thighs.
• Stick to soft, stretchy materials that provide room to breathe.

Now, check out this list of big booty-friendly shorts to shop below.

1. A Levi's Classic

If you're looking for denim that compliments different body types, Levi's is the brand to turn to. These vintage-inspired shorts are made from 100 percent cotton and are an updated version of the classic 501 shorts that Levi's fans have come to love. In my experience, they run a little small, so make sure to size up.

Levi's 501 Short, $45, Levi's

See similar: Levi's 501 Short in Echo Park, $58, Amazon

2. Girlfriend Shorts

One of my personal favorites, the girlfriend short is a great option that sits high on the natural waist. This one comes in a beautiful light blue wash to boot. The security of a button and zip fly will also help keep everything in place.

Top Shop Moto Bleach Girlfriend Shorts, $52, T opShop

3. High-Waisted Favorites

Everyone knows that American Apparel has the high waist short game on lock. Offered in black and white, this pair gives major coverage to bigger assets.

American Apparel Stretch Bull Denim High-Waist Cuff Short, $58, A mazon

4. Cut-Off Shorts

Citizens of Humanity is renowned for its extremely soft yet durable denim. This off-black wash is the perfect shade when you want to switch things up from a traditional blue. The whiskered and frayed bottoms add to its vintage feel.

Citizens of Humanity Chloe High Waist Cut-Off Short in Goth, $188, citizensofhumanity.com

See similar: Joe's Jeans Charlie Short in Amaya, $148, Amazon

5. The Mom Shorts

Designed by ASOS Curve, these mom jeans are an excellent option if you want your booty to be super comfortable.

ASOS Curve High Waist Denim Mom Short in Mid Wash, $54, A SOS

Try: 7 for All Mankind Relaxed Roll-Up Shorts, $148, Amazon

6. Loose At The Thighs

Offered in light and medium denim washes, these shorts are totally accommodating of big booties thanks to their relaxed fit.

Forever 21 Distressed Denim Shorts, $20, F orever21

Try: DL1961 Karlie Roll-Up Short, $77, Amazon

7. Soft Denim

These River Island shorts are awesome. Not only do they have major stretch appeal, but they come in black, too. Rock them with a pair of your favorite sandals and you're good to go.

River Island Light Wash Patch Pocket Denim Shorts, $56, us.riverisland.com

8. More Mom Jeans

Don't be fooled by the style's name, because Topshop's mom shorts will look fierce on women of all ages. These high waisted shorts provide enough coverage in the back and include funky rips in the front for a perfect late summer look.

Top Shop Moto White Ripped Mom Shorts, $58, TopShop

9. Pinup Styles

BDG's classic Urban Outfitter shorts are made in cotton, spandex, and polyester blend that allows for breathing room and isn't too tight.

BDG Four-Pocket Pin-Up Short — Charlie, $40, Urban Outfitters

See similar: Pink Ice High-Waist Stretch Jean Short, $17, Amazon

10. Super Stretchies

NYDJ's Bermuda style shorts are a great option if comfort is your No. 1 priority.

NYDJ Briella' Roll Cuff Stretch Denim Shorts, $60, nordstrom.com

See similar: Levi's Women's Bermuda Shorts, $27.99, Amazon

11. No Front Zips Or Buttons

In a rich vibrant blue, these River Island shorts are giving off major pinup style vibes. In a non-traditional design that features buttons near the side of the waist, these shorts will offer a sophisticated look — especially when paired with wedges.

River Island Bright Blue High Waisted Button Shorts, $56, riverisland.com

Try: 7 For All Mankind Biancha Short with Exposed Buttons, $101, Amazon

12. Simple High Rise Shorts

Levi's High Rise shorts in this cool acid wash rinse are a fun alternative to plain old black or blue denim. The traditional five pocket design is not too bulky so it keeps my derriere in place.

Levis High Rise Shorts, $38, Levi's

13. Cuffed Shorts

This is hands down one of the most popular shorts styles sold at American Apparel and I've been a huge fan of it for almost a decade. The style is comprised of a thicker material that may feel tight at first, but begins to stretch out for a looser feel in no time.

American Apparel High-Waist Jean Cuff Short, $58, A merican Apparel

See similar: Vintage Retro High-Waist Jean Shorts, $17.99, Amazon

14. More Pinup Styles

This pair is perfect if you want the short shorts look without the risk of flashing your big rump when you bend down.

BDG Dolphin Pin Up Short, $40, Urban Outfitters

15. Super Sleek

These shorts will mold to your booty right away. Just be careful if you go with the white option, however, because the style is pretty sheer.

Forever 21 Cuff High Waisted Denim Shorts, $18, Forever21

See similar: True Religion Jayde Boyfriend Short in White, $79, Amazon

16. Simple Mid Rise

This pair is edgy yet chic and won't ride up or show off major crack. The frayed hems add a vintage touch as well. Throw on your favorite pair of espadrilles for the ultimate summer look.

7 for all Mankind, High Waist Cut Off Short in Rigid Vintage Indigo, $90, 7forallmankind.com

17. The Loose Fit, High-Waisted Pair

These distressed, high waisted shorts are ideal for anything from outdoor festivals to casual walks in the park. ASOS got it right with this relaxed style.

ASOS Denim High Waist Shorts in Clapton Mid Wash with Side Splits and Rips, $50, A SOS

So go ahead and show off your big booty love in an awesome pair of shorts that won't make you feel like your assets are about to hit center stage.Images: Courtesy Brands