Jorts have made a serious comeback this summer, but they’re not the tiny, high-waisted denim shorts of the past. This time around, jorts are longer, looser, and more comfortable, perfect for hot and humid weather, with hemlines that hit just above or below the knees.
While jean shorts are often seen as casual wear, prestigious fashion brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy have demonstrated how to style these denim pieces with embellishments, chic layering, and the right footwear in their recent fashion shows.
Gone are the days of simply throwing on a baggy t-shirt with your denim cutoffs – it’s time to elevate your jorts game and make a statement with your outfit.
What Are Jorts?
Simply put, “jorts” are a short form for “jean shorts.” While not officially in the dictionary, this term has been buzzing around the fashion scene lately. These shorts come in many versions, some so long they nearly look like full jeans.
The traditional jorts style features a neat hem, approximately 21-22 inches in length, and a slim fit with frayed edges, usually worn above the knee. This style, once popular, is unlikely to return. The current trend leans towards longer, baggier jorts that extend below the knee, embraced by both men and women.
A Brief History of Jorts
Originally known as “waist overalls,” jean shorts didn’t gain widespread popularity until the Gold Rush when the demand for durable workwear soared. However, jean shorts, or “jorts,” didn’t enter the fashion lexicon until the 1960s.
In the early ’60s, wearing shorts in public was often frowned upon, with some cities even banning them. This changed with the rise of the counterculture movement, where a rebellious spirit and a “free-love” attitude led people to cut their legs off their jeans, creating the first jorts.
By the late ’60s, these DIY shorts were everywhere, growing shorter each year. In the ’70s, jorts became a punk rock staple, sported by icons like Debbie Harry and Patti Smith. The late ’70s and early ’80s saw Catherine Bach immortalize the shortest jorts as “Daisy Dukes” in The Dukes of Hazzard. These ultra-short shorts still inspire cultural references, like Katy Perry’s “California Girls.”
The 1980s brought changes: longer hemlines, higher waists, and lighter washes. Tennis star Andre Agassi even played the 1988 US Open in acid-wash jorts. The ’90s saw hip-hop culture in New York popularize a baggier jorts silhouette, championed by rappers like Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
Yet, short-shorts remained in vogue, with Azzedine Alaïa showcasing them on the runway and Cindy Crawford wearing the summer wardrobe staple during her 1992 Stuntwoman World Tour. Jean shorts were a must-have for every ’90s It girl, from Mariah Carey to Britney Spears.
Now, these shorts are back in trend, but they’re larger, roomier, and longer, thanks to the TikTok Eclectic Grandpa trend.
9 Ways To Style Jorts
Take a Plunge on Streetwear
For a laid-back street-style look, style your jorts with a crop top and an oversized shirt. Complete the outfit with socks and stylish sneakers.
Cool Model-Inspired Look
Bella Hadid is no stranger when it comes to serving some serious style inspiration and we can always rely on her. The model pairs her baggy jorts with a cute cropped top complete with a statement pair of leather boots, resulting in a chic street style look.
Chic and Sophisticated
Mix formal with casual for a look that screams chic and sophistication. Opt for a pair of jorts with a cropped blazer and finish off with kitten heels a la style star.
A Chic Cool Girl Look
You can achieve a chic cool girl look by simply pairing jorts with a basic vest top, mules, a baseball cap, and a tote bag.
Western Chic
Western fashion is making a strong return, largely influenced by stars like Beyoncé. An easy top and a pair of jorts with cowboy boots can be a good companion for a day out in the city.
Camo Cargo Jorts Are Undeniably a Good Idea
Bringing back the ’90s grunge vibe, Camo Cargo Jorts are making a comeback. Pair them with a jacket and sneakers for an edgy streetwear look.
Jorts With Slides? Absolutely!
With the summer, a pair of jorts and slides are a no-brainer. Style your blue or black jorts with cute slides for a relaxed look that can take you from errands to walking around the city.
Dress It Up
For a polished look, opt for high-rise jorts that sit nicely on your waist. Pair them with a crop top and kitten heels or stilettos. You’ll have an elegant outfit that allows you to attend posh events with friends.
Denim on Denim
When you’re unsure how to mix your denim pieces, a coordinated denim outfit always hits the mark. Simply pair a denim shirt or jacket with your jorts and the right pair of shoes for a polished look.
Photo: Instagram/ Im_blacklily
