30 Under-$100 Shorts That'll Make Your Outfits Look Expensive

The record heat this summer and rising humidity call for a pair of go-to shorts. While shorts have a reputation for being quite casual, there are pairs out there that can make an outfit look much more polished. Often, when thinking of summer bottoms, athletic shorts or denim cutoffs come to mind, but consider lace-trimmed shorts, pleated shorts, and, yes, even short shorts to elevate a summer outfit.

Looking expensive in a pair of shorts doesn’t mean you have to break the bank, especially for a seasonal piece of clothing, which is why I’ve compiled chic, expensive-looking summer shorts, all falling in the under-$100 category. Each piece is unique and fitting for any personal style, whether you’re into minimalism or want to look bold this summer. All 30 pairs are definitely made to elevate an outfit. Keep scrolling if you’re on the hunt for a pair of affordable yet expensive-looking shorts for summer 2026.

Shop Under-$100 Shorts

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Lace Trim Satin Shorts

This blue and the lace trim look so delicate and elegant.

MANGO

Straight-Fit Lyocell Bermuda Shorts

This rich color is so chic.

Madewell

Lace-Trim Pull-On Shorts

A lace trim and a polka-dot print? I'm sold.

Kenneth Cole

Pleated High Waist Bermuda Shorts

Sometimes brown works for summer.

J.Crew

Tap Shorts in Chino

Micro-shorts have never looked better.

The paisley print on these shorts is so cute.

H&M

Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts

ZARA

Polka Dot Balloon Shorts

Looks like bubble-hemmed shorts aren't totally out of trend.

Aritzia

Babaton Pleated Mini Shorts

Little gray shorts are my new obsession.

Madewell

The Everyday Trouser Shorts

Sometimes a simple beige pair of shorts is all you need.

MANGO

Linen Bermuda Shorts

This rich plum color is so elegant.

Aritzia

Babaton Hilltop Satin Shorts

Satin shorts are always chic.

Open Edit

The Icon High Rise Bermuda Shorts

Long white shorts are sure to elevate a look.

COS

Elasticated Grosgrain-Detail Cotton Shorts

These short shorts are perfect for a day of galavanting.

COS

Knee-Length Denim Shorts

White denim is perfect for summer.

Aritzia

Wilfred Whimsy Satin Shorts

Butter yellow will never go out of style.

Reformation

Nora Linen Shorts

Simple white linens are my go-to for this season.

Marine Layer

Cali Seersucker Shorts

I love these boxer-style shorts.

Elodie the Label

Kaia Shorts

These simple lace-trimmed shorts are a need not a want for me.

Gingham print is so back this summer.

Pleated shorts will definitely dress up a basic outfit.

Madewell X Shopbop

Terry Pull-On Shorts in Midweight Poplin

The stripes trend made it to shorts, and it's perfect for this season.

J.Crew

Easy Pleated Short in Drapey Denim

I love the dark-wash on these shorts.

J.Crew

7" Heritage Chino Shorts

These simple chino shorts are great for an on-the-go person.

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Tailored Linen Shorts in Dark Brown

Salmon-hued shorts are a must-have for summer.

MANGO

Linen Shorts With Contrasting Stripes

These shorts are minimal and chic.

WAYF

Emma Ruffle Shorts in Yellow

This ruffle pair of shorts is so playful.

Reformation

Nora Linen Shorts

Linen short shorts for an extra-breathable outfit are all you need this summer.