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From the ’90s (& Earlier) to Now: The Evolution of Jean Shorts in Fashion

Expert Advice

From the ’90s (& Earlier) to Now: The Evolution of Jean Shorts in Fashion

Mar 19, 2025

Jean shorts are the warm-weather staple of the year — a timeless piece that somehow balances casual cool with effortless style. And whether you’re looking for a laidback beach vibe, a streetwear statement or something slightly more polished, you’ll find a pair of jorts to go with all your fits. Here’s your guide to this versatile wardrobe piece and how to style jean shorts.

Man in denim shorts

What’s in a Name: What Are Jorts Anyway?

You take the word “shorts” and the word “jeans” and mash them together to get jorts. Whether you call them jean shorts or jorts, though, is up to you. If you’re wondering why jorts are so popular, it’s because, like their longer counterparts, they’re easy enough to wear with anything, and you can dress them up or make them completely casual.

The Rise of Denim: When Were Shorts Invented?

So, jean shorts actually came from denim workwear in the early 20th century. When the Industrial Revolution began, laborers needed durable pants that could hold up to the rigors of labor-intensive work. Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis were the ones who patented that first pair of blue jeans, all the way back in 1873, but jean shorts didn’t come till much later.

Man in denim shorts

Cutoffs: When Were Jean Shorts Invented?

The earliest jean shorts, or jorts, were just a regular pair of denim, cut off at the knee or thigh. It was an easy and thrifty way to repurpose a pair of old pants, particularly during the hotter months, and it began to gain some popularity in the 1950s.

The Counterculture: Did Men Wear Jean Shorts in the ’60s?

While denim traditionally served as a men’s workwear staple, the 1960s and ’70s gave rise to more relaxed clothing styles for all genders as a form of self-expression and rebellion. Jean shorts fit perfectly into the era. The 1970s saw the rise of “Daisy Dukes,” super short cutoffs popularized by the character Daisy Duke in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” This era also saw jean shorts embraced by both men and women, reflecting the free spirit of the hippie generation.

From Calvin Klein to Guess: Did They Wear Jean Shorts in the ’80s and ’90s?

In the 1980s and ’90s, jean shorts were the thing for any gender, whether worn high-waisted, acid-washed, baggy or in overalls. You could find them in Calvin Klein ads, at the skatepark, school dances and in your favorite hip-hop group.

Retro Revival: Do People Still Wear Jorts?

Today, jean shorts, or jorts, continue to be a fashion fave, particularly classic styles and retro looks, for their versatility and durability.

Man in denim shorts and Jordans

How to Style Jorts

Wear them below the knee, or sport a high-cut, ragged hem — it’s up to you. Here’s how to style jorts for men, women and kids.

  • Coachella, SXSW, Bonnaroo or just an outdoor concert at your favorite local brewery calls for festival-ready wear. Pair a cropped top with denim shorts and cowboy boots. Add a wide-brim hat and you’re ready for a day of tunes. 
  • For an effortlessly chic style, try high-waisted jean shorts with a tucked-in white button-up and a pair of adidas Superstars. 
  • Go for an oversized hoodie or boxy tee with relaxed-fit, distressed jorts and low cut Air Jordan 1s. Throw in some statement socks, and you’re set.

Make your own retro revival with a vintage band or sports graphic tee, a pair of below-the-knee denim shorts and Vans Knu Skools.

Jean shorts remain ever-popular because they’re as versatile as that pair of denim pants. Find your favorite jorts in a variety of styles, brands and washes at Hibbett! 

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