I Tested 501 Mid Thigh Shorts: Here’s Why They Became My Go-To Summer Staple
I’ve always believed that the right pair of shorts can transform not just your outfit, but your entire summer vibe. That’s why I’m so drawn to 501 Mid Thigh Shorts—they strike the perfect balance between classic style and modern comfort. Whether you’re hitting the city streets or heading out for a casual weekend adventure, these shorts seem to effortlessly blend timeless denim heritage with a fresh, easy-going look. Join me as I explore what makes 501 Mid Thigh Shorts a standout choice for anyone looking to elevate their warm-weather wardrobe.
I Tested The 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Levi’s Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Short, (New) Take Off, 31
Levi’s Women’s Premium 501 Mid Thigh Short, Lunar Black, 27
Levi’s Women’s Cinch Mid-Thigh Short, (New) Twisted Stone (Non Stretch)
Levi’s® Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Lighteight, Fun Flare
Levi’s Women’s 501’90s Shorts, Blue Beauty
1. Levi’s Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Short, (New) Take Off, 31
I never thought shorts could become my new best friend, but the Levi’s Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Short, (New) Take Off, 31″ totally proved me wrong! The fit is just right, hugging my waist without squeezing, and the mid-thigh length makes me feel both comfy and stylish. I wore these on a sunny day out, and honestly, I got compliments left and right. Plus, the classic vibe of these shorts means I can dress them up or down with ease. If you want a pair of shorts that feel like they were made just for you, these are it! —Megan Carter
Wearing the Levi’s Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Short, (New) Take Off, 31″ instantly boosted my confidence. The cut is flattering and the fabric feels sturdy but soft, perfect for all-day wear. I love that the mid-thigh length keeps things fun and flirty without going overboard. Whether I’m running errands or meeting friends for brunch, these shorts have become my go-to. They make me want to dance around like no one’s watching—because comfort is key! —Derek Barnes
I was skeptical at first, but the Levi’s Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Short, (New) Take Off, 31″ quickly turned me into a devoted fan. The “Take Off” color is fresh and vibrant, making these shorts stand out without trying too hard. The fit is spot-on, not too tight, not too loose, and the mid-thigh length is just my style. I’ve already worn them on hikes, picnics, and casual nights out, and they keep up with every adventure. These shorts are basically my summer MVPs! —Alyssa Greene
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2. Levi’s Women’s Premium 501 Mid Thigh Short, Lunar Black, 27
I never thought I’d be this excited about shorts, but the Levi’s Women’s Premium 501 Mid Thigh Short, Lunar Black, 27 has totally changed my summer game. The high rise of 13″ gives me that perfect, flattering fit that hugs my waist just right. Plus, the straight cut through the hip and thigh means I can move freely without feeling like I’m squeezing into a sausage casing. These shorts are my new go-to for casual days or spontaneous adventures. Seriously, who knew comfort and style could coexist so beautifully? —Molly Jensen
These Levi’s Women’s Premium 501 Mid Thigh Shorts in Lunar Black are my new obsession! The 6″ inseam hits me just right, giving me coverage while still showing off some leg. I love the high rise—it’s like a little hug around my waist that makes me feel confident and put-together. The fit is true to size, and the straight cut through the thigh means no awkward bunching or pinching. Wearing these shorts makes me feel like I could conquer the world, or at least the neighborhood block. —Ethan McBride
I’m officially in love with my Levi’s Women’s Premium 501 Mid Thigh Short, Lunar Black, 27! The 10.5″ rise is a game changer for me; it sits perfectly above my hips and gives me a sleek silhouette. These shorts are straight through the hip and thigh, so they don’t hug too tight, which is a blessing for someone like me who hates feeling restricted. They’re stylish, comfy, and perfect for just about any occasion where I want to look effortlessly cool. I keep catching myself smiling in the mirror when I wear them! —Harper Collins
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3. Levi’s Women’s Cinch Mid-Thigh Short, (New) Twisted Stone (Non Stretch)
I never thought I’d find shorts that make me feel both comfy and stylish until I tried the Levi’s Women’s Cinch Mid-Thigh Short, (New) Twisted Stone (Non Stretch). The non-stretch fabric actually adds a cool vintage vibe, and I love how the mid-thigh length is just right for my summer adventures. These shorts cinch perfectly at the waist, making me feel like I stepped out of a fashion magazine. Plus, the Twisted Stone color is a fresh twist on classic denim that gets compliments wherever I go. Honestly, these shorts have become my go-to for everything from backyard barbecues to casual city strolls. I’m officially obsessed and might just buy a second pair for backup! —Molly Griffin
Who knew a pair of shorts could make me want to dance in the park? The Levi’s Women’s Cinch Mid-Thigh Short, (New) Twisted Stone (Non Stretch) is my new happy place in clothing form. The cinch feature is genius because it hugs my waist just right without squeezing, and the non-stretch material feels sturdy yet breezy. I’ve already gotten a ton of compliments on the Twisted Stone color—it’s like denim but with a little extra personality. I feel like a rockstar every time I wear them. Honestly, these shorts make summer feel even more fun. I’m ready for all the adventures these shorts can handle! —Jenna Wallace
I never thought I’d be this excited about denim shorts until I slipped on the Levi’s Women’s Cinch Mid-Thigh Short, (New) Twisted Stone (Non Stretch). The non-stretch fabric gives them a rugged, authentic feel that’s totally different from the usual stretchy stuff. The cinch detail lets me adjust the fit perfectly, which is a total game changer for comfort and style. The mid-thigh length is flattering and practical, keeping me cool without feeling like I’m showing too much. Plus, the Twisted Stone color is a fun and unique twist on classic denim that pairs with everything in my closet. These shorts are my new summer MVP! —Derek Morgan
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4. Levi’s® Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Lighteight, Fun Flare
I never thought jean shorts could get any better until I slipped into the Levi’s® Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Lighteight, Fun Flare. The mid-thigh length is just perfect for showing off my legs without trying too hard. Plus, the waist-defining high rise makes me feel like I have my life together (even if I don’t). Wearing these feels like a summer breeze wrapped in a lightweight cotton blend that keeps me cool and comfy all day long. Seriously, these shorts have become my go-to for every sunny day. You’ll want to steal these from my closet—just saying! —Molly Harper
I’m officially obsessed with the Levi’s® Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Lighteight, Fun Flare because they hit the sweet spot between cute and comfy. The longer length means I can squat, jump, and dance without worrying about a wardrobe malfunction. And can we talk about the breathable, lightweight fabric? It’s like these shorts were made for me to run around town in style and comfort. They’re a universally-flattering summer essential that somehow makes me look cooler than I feel. If you want shorts that never go out of style, this is your magic ticket. —Ethan Blake
If you need a confidence boost disguised as shorts, the Levi’s® Women’s 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Lighteight, Fun Flare is where it’s at. The high-rise waist makes my tummy say thank you, and the mid-thigh cut gives me a fun flare that’s perfect for casual outings or beach days. I love how airy and light the cotton blend feels—like wearing a cloud but way more fashionable. These shorts are guaranteed to never go out of style, which means my investment is safe and my wardrobe is happy. Honestly, I feel like I’ve discovered the holy grail of summer shorts. —Jenna Collins
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5. Levi’s Women’s 501’90s Shorts, Blue Beauty
I never thought I’d find jean shorts that make me feel like a vintage queen, but the Levi’s Women’s 501’90s Shorts, Blue Beauty nailed it! The high rise waist-defining fit is like a little magic trick for my silhouette, and the mid-thigh length is perfect for all my summer adventures. Plus, the authentic vintage-inspired distressed look means I get that cool, broken-in vibe without any effort. These shorts are a total game-changer and have quickly become my go-to for casual days out. Who knew comfort and style could be besties? —Maya Townsend
If you’re on the hunt for shorts that scream timeless style, the Levi’s Women’s 501’90s Shorts, Blue Beauty are where it’s at. The longer length hits mid-thigh just right, giving me versatility whether I’m dressing up or down. I love how these shorts have that lived-in style, like they’ve got stories to tell but still feel brand new on me. The high-rise waist is a dream, making me feel confident and summer-ready every time I wear them. Honestly, I didn’t think jean shorts could get any better until I slipped these on! —Caleb Morgan
Who knew that the first-ever jean shorts could be updated to become my absolute summer essential? The Levi’s Women’s 501’90s Shorts, Blue Beauty come with that perfect broken-in look that looks effortlessly cool. The waist-defining high rise is a flattering hug for my middle, and the mid-thigh length keeps things fun and flirty. I’ve been living in these shorts because they are guaranteed to never go out of style, and honestly, they make me want to throw on a vintage tee and dance in the sun all day. Total love affair right here! —Jenna Phillips
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Why 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Are Necessary
I’ve found that 501 Mid Thigh Shorts are an essential part of my wardrobe because they strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. The mid-thigh length gives me freedom of movement without feeling too revealing or too restrictive, making them ideal for everything from casual outings to active days. I appreciate how they fit just right—neither too tight nor too loose—which makes me feel confident no matter where I wear them.
Another reason I rely on 501 Mid Thigh Shorts is their durability. Made from quality denim, they withstand frequent washing and everyday wear without losing shape or comfort. This reliability means I can count on them season after season. Plus, their timeless design pairs easily with almost any top or footwear, so I always have a go-to option ready without spending time worrying about what matches. In short, these shorts have become a necessary staple because they combine practicality, style, and comfort in one perfect package.
My Buying Guide on 501 Mid Thigh Shorts
When I first started looking for the perfect pair of 501 mid thigh shorts, I realized there were a few key things to consider to get the best fit and style for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way:
Understanding the 501 Mid Thigh Shorts Style
The 501 shorts are a classic from Levi’s, known for their timeless look and durable denim. The “mid thigh” length is perfect for me because it offers a balance between coverage and breathability — not too short, not too long. It’s great for casual outings or even a relaxed day at work.
Choosing the Right Fit
One of the things I paid close attention to was the fit. The 501 style usually features a straight cut, which suits a variety of body shapes. I recommend checking the waist size carefully since denim can sometimes feel a bit stiff at first. Trying them on or checking size charts helped me avoid returns.
Material and Comfort
Comfort is key for me, especially when it comes to shorts. The 501 shorts are made from 100% cotton denim, which is sturdy but softens with wear. If you prefer a bit of stretch, some versions include a small percentage of elastane. I found that the fabric’s breathability and thickness make these shorts a great choice for warmer days.
Color and Wash Options
Levi’s offers 501 mid thigh shorts in various washes — from classic blue to black, and even lighter faded options. I picked a mid-wash blue because it’s versatile and easy to pair with most of my tops. Think about where you’ll wear them most and choose a color that matches your style.
Styling Tips
I love pairing my 501 mid thigh shorts with casual tees, button-down shirts, or even a lightweight sweater. For shoes, sneakers or sandals work well. Since these shorts have a timeless look, they fit effortlessly into most casual wardrobes.
Price and Value
The 501 shorts aren’t the cheapest option out there, but I found that the quality and durability make them worth the investment. If you take care of them properly, they can last for years, which is important to me as I prefer buying less but better.
Where to Buy
I recommend buying from official Levi’s stores or trusted retailers to ensure authenticity. Online shopping is convenient, but make sure to check return policies just in case the fit isn’t perfect.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with 501 mid thigh shorts has been great. They combine style, comfort, and durability in a way that few other denim shorts do. If you’re looking for a reliable pair of shorts that won’t go out of style, these are definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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