Buying women’s shorts can be difficult because the perfect pair has to balance length, fit, fabric, comfort, and style. A pair that looks great on the rack may leave you feeling a little short on comfort once you try it on. Sizing can also vary from store to store, making the search feel like a real waist of time. Then there is the question of price, since shorts can range from bargain basics to premium pairs with a premium inseam. Fortunately, Cambridge has plenty of options, so you can keep calm and carry on—one leg at a time.
*Price note: The figures below are estimated average regular prices for women’s shorts, based on typical items listed by each retailer; sales, promotions, and availability may change. Check the store website before heading out.*
- **Madewell — Harvard Square**
- **Anthropologie — Harvard Square**
- **Urban Outfitters — Harvard Square**
- **lululemon — Cambridge**
- **J.Crew — CambridgeSide or nearby Cambridge locations**
- **H&M — CambridgeSide**
- **ZARA — CambridgeSide**
- **UNIQLO — CambridgeSide**
- **Target — Central Square**
- **Marshalls — Fresh Pond area**
Madewell is a strong choice for denim shorts, linen styles, and relaxed everyday pairs. Its shorts usually average about **$75** per pair, though sale racks may help you keep more change in your pocket. Visit the [Madewell website](https://www.madewell.com/) to browse styles and check store availability.
For distinctive prints, polished tailoring, and vacation-ready designs, Anthropologie is a fashionable fit. Women’s shorts there average roughly **$90**, so your wardrobe may get a little more *short*-of-breath when you see the price. Shop online at [Anthropologie](https://www.anthropologie.com/) and confirm Cambridge store details before visiting.
Urban Outfitters offers trend-driven denim cutoffs, cargo shorts, athletic-inspired designs, and statement pieces. Expect an average price of about **$55**, giving you plenty of room to make a style statement without getting hemmed in by tradition. Explore the selection at [Urban Outfitters](https://www.urbanoutfitters.com/).
If comfort and performance are your main goals, lululemon is a natural move for running, training, and casual athleisure shorts. The average price is approximately **$75**, but the fabrics may help your outfit stretch in the right direction. Browse women’s shorts at [lululemon](https://shop.lululemon.com/c/women/shorts/_/N-8t9).
J.Crew is a good place to find chino shorts, tailored pairs, linen blends, and classic summer colors. Women’s shorts average around **$70**, so you can keep your look sharp without getting caught with your style below the knee. Visit [J.Crew](https://www.jcrew.com/) for current products and store information.
H&M is a budget-friendly stop for denim, casual, and seasonal shorts in a wide range of silhouettes. The average price is about **$25**, which means you can have a leg up on summer shopping without making your wallet sweat. Check the latest options at [H&M](https://www2.hm.com/en_us/index.html).
ZARA is worth a look for fashion-forward shorts, tailored silhouettes, and trend-led fabrics. Its women’s shorts average approximately **$45**, making it easier to take a stylish step forward without getting shortchanged. Browse current arrivals at [ZARA](https://www.zara.com/us/).
UNIQLO specializes in practical, comfortable basics, including chino, linen-blend, denim, and casual shorts. Expect an average price near **$35**, so your summer wardrobe can stay cool without your budget losing its cool. Visit [UNIQLO](https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/) for current styles and Cambridge store details.
Target is a convenient option for affordable everyday shorts, athletic styles, denim, and seasonal basics. Women’s shorts typically average about **$25**, so you can score a pair without sending your spending plans into a short circuit. Shop [Target’s women’s shorts](https://www.target.com/c/women-s-shorts-clothing/-/N-5xtc8) and check local pickup options.
Marshalls can be a treasure hunt for discounted brand-name denim, activewear, and casual shorts. Because inventory changes frequently, the average price is roughly **$25**, although your best find may be hiding just one rack away from a major fashion breakthrough. See store information at [Marshalls](https://www.marshalls.com/).
Whether you want linen, denim, athletic wear, or a bargain, Cambridge has shorts for nearly every style and budget. Start with the stores closest to your route, compare prices, and remember that the best pair is the one that fits both your body and your plans—because when it comes to summer style, it is always better to be well-shorted than underprepared.