Free People We the Free Boomerang Long Shorts Review

Denim shorts feel so synonymous with summer, which is precisely why I start bulk-buying the style whenever temperatures begin to heat up. Sure, I love opting for a flowy maxi dress or comfy romper on occasion, but when it comes to building out my dream summer uniform — aka what I can reliably wear for a handful of different dress codes or destinations (it is vacation season, after all) — denim shorts are always at the center of my everyday looks.

With so many pairs already in my closet, this season I sought out to find a style with a little more edge — ideally something that’s trendy yet timeless, breathable yet a touch more formal, and comfortable yet still flattering. Given Free People’s wide assortment of denim, I turned to the brand looking for some extra product inspiration and immediately fell in love with these Free People We the Free Boomerang Long Shorts ($98) — which, to no one’s surprise, I’ve basically been wearing on repeat everyday.

Ahead, I break down what it is that makes these Free People denim shorts so great — aside from their undeniably cool design (which is already a given). From the pair’s lengthy silhouette to its deep side pockets and flattering fit, I’d argue that no summer wardrobe is complete without having this pair incorporated into it.

What I Like About These Free People Denim Shorts

As someone with an hourglass shape, I’m always weary of purchasing nonstretch denim pieces — the combination of wide hips and a smaller waist usually requires bottoms with a little extra wiggle room and stretch. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfortability provided by these Free People denim shorts, which are made from a 100 percent cotton material. Despite their nonstretch design, the shorts are breathable and easy to move around, with a waist-hugging fit that accentuates my curves and cultivates a more tailored look.

The might-wash coloring is a bit easier to style than traditional dark-wash denim, giving me the freedom to dress them up or down accordingly; during the day I can throw them on with a cropped white T-shirt, striped button-down top, and everyday sneakers for something sporty and fun. Then come nighttime, I can pair these long shorts with a black corset top, oversize blazer, and thong sandals for a dinner date or club rendezvous.

I also appreciate the unique silhouette of these denim shorts, which makes them feel one-of-a-kind and unlike anything else in my closet. The Free People shorts have a lengthier, Bermuda-like design that extends past my mid-thigh so that the hem hovers just above my knees. Booty shorts are a little too cheeky to fit within my style wheelhouse, so I appreciate the extra coverage provided by these long denim shorts. Crisscross jeans are also so trendy among celebrities at the moment — Taylor Swift and Hailey Bieber have both sported similar denim styles — and I like that these jean shorts give me a way into the trend, while still looking classic enough to wear long after the fad dissipates.

As noted on Free People’s website and in several shopper reviews, these nonstretch shorts run small, so it’s recommended that you size up in order to ensure a more comfortable fit. This style also boasts a mid-rise design that’s made to sit between the hips and belly button, but with its criss-cross waistline, some shoppers have reported that it has a tendency to fit awkwardly depending on your body type and the size you order; if you have a curvier shape, the short’s asymmetrical waistline might not look as distinct compared to those with a straighter figure. Make sure you reference Free People’s size guide prior to ordering the pair.

Who Are These Free People Denim Shorts Best For?

If you (like me) are a denim enthusiast looking to swap out your jeans in favor of a more summer-friendly style, I can’t recommend these shorts enough. They’re unique, functional, and easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion. Plus, they blend two styles into one with a lengthier, Bermuda-like silhouette and denim composition. Whether you’re packing them for an upcoming vacation, wearing them casually around the house, or donning them beachside, you’ll be able to get extended wear out of the shorts, and feel comfortable wearing them in even the warmest temperatures.

Where Are These Denim Shorts Available to Shop?

These shorts are available to shop exclusively at Free People.

Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on POPSUGAR Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.