The Summer Basic That Is Now Replacing All My Denim Shorts

There was a time when I swore by denim shorts every summer—cutoffs, tailored pairs, even the occasional bermuda—but this year, I’m not reaching for them the same way. Lately, all I want to wear are soft, comfy bottoms that still feel put-together. Denim? Cute in theory, but the second it’s above 80 degrees, I want nothing to do with it. So I’ve made the switch: this summer, I’m officially in my sweatshorts era. Side note: My favorite pair actually looks like a pair of denim shorts but feels totally different.

I’ve always loved leggings for lazy days or workouts, but as soon as it’s warm out, they start to feel like the wrong choice. Sweatshorts, on the other hand, have quietly become the one thing I keep reaching for. They’re cozy but not sloppy, and they somehow work with everything: tank tops, oversized button-downs, swimsuits, even a cute little cardigan. If you’re also side-eyeing your denim drawer right now, I rounded up the best sweatshorts worth swapping in this season.