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Photo by Elena Smuseva
Photo by Maryia Plashchynskaya
Photo by Art Laurence Luzon
Portland, Maine
# Hem and Haw: A Short List of Portland’s Best Shorts Stops

Buying short shorts in Portland, Maine, can feel like a tall order when the weather swings from chilly to cheeky in the same afternoon. The ideal pair has to balance length, comfort, style, and enough pocket space to keep your plans from going off the cuff. Some stores specialize in sporty cuts, while others bring denim, vintage, or designer options to the thigh-light zone. Inventory also changes quickly, so finding your perfect pair may require a little legwork. Still, with the right route, you can make a clean getaway with shorts that are a cut above.

    *Price note: The figures below are approximate average prices for short shorts based on typical merchandise at each retailer, excluding sales and special collaborations. Check each store’s website before visiting, since stock and pricing can change faster than a Maine tide.*

    ## 1. Urban Outfitters

    For fashion-forward denim cutoffs, athletic styles, and statement prints, **[Urban Outfitters](https://www.urbanoutfitters.com/)** is a solid starting point. Its Portland shop is a good place to keep your wardrobe from feeling too long-winded, with styles that range from casual to festival-ready. **Approximate average price: $55.**

    ## 2. Free People

    **[Free People](https://www.freepeople.com/)** brings breezy, bohemian options to the short list, including relaxed denim, athletic-inspired designs, and flowy pull-on pairs. These shorts can help your summer style get a little more cheeky without going completely off the rails. **Approximate average price: $70.**

    ## 3. lululemon

    For running, training, or simply striding around town, **[lululemon](https://shop.lululemon.com/)** offers technical short shorts with lightweight fabrics and secure pockets. The prices may make your wallet take a brief jog, but the performance features are designed to go the distance. **Approximate average price: $68.**

    ## 4. Patagonia

    Outdoor-minded shoppers can check out **[Patagonia](https://www.patagonia.com/)** for durable running, hiking, and casual shorts. Its practical designs are made for getting outside, whether you are walking the Eastern Promenade or taking a longer trail detour. **Approximate average price: $65.**

    ## 5. REI

    **[REI](https://www.rei.com/)** is another strong choice for active short shorts, with options for hiking, running, climbing, and general outdoor wear. The selection is a good fit for anyone who wants to keep their wardrobe on the trail rather than stuck in a fashion rut. **Approximate average price: $55.**

    ## 6. Portland Dry Goods

    At **[Portland Dry Goods](https://www.portlanddrygoods.com/)**, shoppers can look for polished casualwear, including elevated shorts that work well with camp shirts, tees, or lightweight button-downs. This is a good stop when you want your hemline to make a statement without shouting from the rooftops. **Approximate average price: $85.**

    ## 7. Folly 101

    **[Folly 101](https://www.follyboutique.com/)** offers contemporary women’s clothing and accessories, with seasonal shorts often appearing among its warm-weather selections. Its curated racks can help you find a pair that is short on length but long on personality. **Approximate average price: $80.**

    ## 8. Judith

    For designer-leaning women’s fashion, visit **[Judith](https://www.judithportland.com/)**, a Portland boutique known for carefully selected clothing and accessories. Prices tend to be higher, but the styles can give your summer wardrobe a proper leg up. **Approximate average price: $110.**

    ## 9. Pinecone + Chickadee

    **[Pinecone + Chickadee](https://www.pineconeandchickadee.com/)** is worth browsing for playful, boutique-style clothing and seasonal pieces. Its assortment can be especially appealing if you want shorts with a little extra flair rather than another basic pair that blends into the flock. **Approximate average price: $75.**

    ## 10. Portland Gear

    Local-brand fans should check **[Portland Gear](https://www.portlandgear.com/)** for casual shorts and Maine-inspired apparel. The selection is a natural fit for relaxed summer outfits, and buying local lets your wardrobe put its best shorts forward. **Approximate average price: $50.**

Whether you want trail-ready performance shorts, vintage-inspired cutoffs, or a polished boutique pair, Portland has plenty of ways to get your summer wardrobe moving. Start downtown, compare cuts, and remember that the shortest route to a great outfit is usually trying on more than one pair. With a little patience, you will find a style that fits the bill—and maybe even fits your bill.

Photo by Elena Smuseva
Photo by Maryia Plashchynskaya
Photo by Art Laurence Luzon
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