Louis Stops for Jean Shorts
Buying jean shorts can be a real stretch when every store seems to have a different idea of the perfect fit. Some pairs ride too high, while others fall short in the length department. Then there is the eternal question of whether to choose a light wash, dark wash, cuffed hem, or distressed finish—talk about a denim dilemma. Prices can also vary by more than a few pockets, especially between discount retailers and department stores. Fortunately, St. Louis shoppers have plenty of places where they can cut to the chase and find a pair that fits just right.
The prices below are approximate average prices for adult jean shorts, based on typical styles carried by each retailer; sales, promotions, and designer labels may change the final number. In other words, consider this a handy short list rather than a stonewashed guarantee.
- **Old Navy — easy on the wallet**
- **Target — a target-rich denim selection**
- **Walmart — shorts that won’t cost a fortune**
- **Macy’s at St. Louis Galleria — department-store denim with room to roam**
- **Nordstrom — a high-rise destination for polished styles**
- **American Eagle — made for a comfortable fit**
- **Abercrombie & Fitch — elevated shorts with a tailored edge**
- **H&M — fashion-forward denim without a long wait**
- **Buckle — a fit-focused denim stop**
- **JCPenney — classic styles at a measured price**
Old Navy is a solid place to start if you want plenty of washes, rises, and lengths without letting your budget get hemmed in. Typical jean shorts cost about **$25 per pair**, making this store a cut above for affordable basics. Visit the [Old Navy website](https://oldnavy.gap.com/) to shop denim and find a St. Louis-area location.
Target usually carries casual jean shorts from brands such as Universal Thread and Wild Fable, with styles ranging from classic cutoffs to relaxed fits. Expect to pay around **$25 per pair**, so your shopping trip can hit the bull’s-eye without missing the mark financially. Browse [Target’s women’s shorts](https://www.target.com/c/women-s-shorts-clothing/-/N-5xtc7) and use the store locator for nearby locations.
Walmart offers budget-friendly denim shorts in several cuts, including high-rise, Bermuda, and relaxed styles. The average price is about **$18 per pair**, proving that your wardrobe does not have to be in a tight squeeze. Check out [Walmart’s shorts selection](https://www.walmart.com/browse/clothing/womens-shorts/5438_133162_615694) and select a St. Louis store for pickup options.
Macy’s carries a broad mix of brands, from everyday labels to premium denim makers, so shoppers can find everything from classic blue to fashion-forward washes. A typical pair runs about **$45**, though designer options may climb higher—because some denim really likes to raise the bar. Visit the [Macy’s women’s shorts section](https://www.macys.com/shop/womens-clothing/womens-shorts?id=55596) and check the St. Louis Galleria location.
Nordstrom is a good bet for premium jean shorts, refined fits, and brands that put extra attention into fabric and construction. Plan on an average price of about **$55 per pair**, which may be a little steep but can deliver a smoother fit. Browse [Nordstrom’s denim shorts](https://www.nordstrom.com/browse/women/clothing/shorts/denim) and use its store locator for St. Louis-area availability.
American Eagle is known for offering multiple fits, including mom, baggy, high-rise, and curvy styles, making it easier to find a pair that does not leave you feeling short-changed. The average price is approximately **$49**, with frequent promotions that can bring the total down. Shop [American Eagle denim shorts](https://www.ae.com/us/en/c/women/shorts/denim-shorts/cat6430042) and look for the St. Louis Galleria store.
Abercrombie & Fitch offers denim shorts in polished washes and structured fits, along with longer and more relaxed silhouettes. Expect to pay around **$70 per pair**, so these shorts may take a bigger bite out of your budget but can make a strong style statement. Visit [Abercrombie’s women’s shorts collection](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/womens/shorts) and check St. Louis-area store listings.
H&M is useful for shoppers who want trend-driven cuts, such as loose denim shorts, longer jorts, or distressed styles. The average price is about **$30**, meaning you can keep your look current without having to split your seams financially. See [H&M’s women’s shorts](https://www2.hm.com/en_us/women/shop-by-product/shorts.html) and use the site’s store locator for local availability.
Buckle carries fashion-oriented brands and often provides a wide range of rises, washes, and stretch levels, giving shoppers plenty of room to move. Jean shorts average about **$55 per pair**, although premium brands can cost more—so this is where denim gets serious about its pockets. Explore [Buckle’s women’s shorts](https://www.buckle.com/womens/shorts) and check St. Louis-area shopping centers for a nearby store.
JCPenney is a dependable choice for traditional denim shorts, including mid-rise, Bermuda, and casual everyday options. The average price is roughly **$30 per pair**, and frequent sales can make that number shrink faster than a pair left in a hot dryer. Visit [JCPenney’s women’s shorts](https://www.jcpenney.com/g/women/womens-shorts) and use the store locator to find a St. Louis-area location.
Whether you want a bargain pair, a polished premium style, or a longer jort silhouette, St. Louis has enough denim destinations to keep your summer wardrobe from coming up short. Try on several rises and lengths, check the return policy, and remember that the best pair is the one that fits the bill—and your backside.