Girls Shorts Guide: Styles, Brands & Where to Shop

Girls Shorts

When it comes to everyday comfort and style for kids, girls shorts are a wardrobe essential. Whether your child is running around the playground, heading to a summer camp, or just lounging at home, the right pair of shorts offers both flexibility and flair. With so many brands and styles on the market — from Nike Pro girls shorts to Old Navy girls shorts — knowing what to look for can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help parents find the perfect pair for any occasion.

Why Girls Shorts Are a Year-Round Staple

Though shorts are most popular during warmer seasons, they’ve become a versatile item in every girl’s closet. Worn under dresses for extra coverage, paired with tights in transitional weather, or styled with a breezy tank top in summer, shorts can adapt to any climate or activity.

Key Benefits:

  • Freedom of Movement: Great for active play or sports.
  • Breathable Materials: Keeps kids cool during hot days.
  • Variety of Styles: From sporty to dressy.

Top Brands for Girls Shorts

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular and trusted brands for girls shorts available today.

1. Nike Pro Girls Shorts

Designed for high-performance activities like gymnastics, cheerleading, and running, Nike Pro girls shorts are made with Dri-FIT technology that wicks sweat away to keep your child dry and focused. 

Best For: Sports, workouts, active girls
Where to Buy: Nike.com, Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods

2. Old Navy Girls Shorts

Their collection includes denim cutoffs, chino styles, and soft-knit lounge shorts. Known for affordability and frequent sales, Old Navy girls shorts are perfect for everyday wear.

Best For: Casual wear, school outfits, budget-friendly shopping
Where to Buy: OldNavy.com, in-store, or via app

3. Nike Girls Shorts (Classic)

Separate from the Nike Pro line, classic Nike girls shorts tend to focus more on relaxed athletic wear. Think mesh basketball shorts, cotton gym shorts, or casual fleece styles. These are great for playdates, sports practice, or just chilling at home.

Best For: Day-to-day play, sports, general comfort
Where to Buy: Nike, Foot Locker, Macy’s

4. Mini Girls Shorts

“Mini” refers to short-length styles that are trendy among tweens and teens. Brands like H&M, Zara, and Forever 21 offer mini girls shorts that are stylish yet age-appropriate. Many of these come with ruffled hems, high waists, or pastel tones.

Best For: Trendy summer outfits, casual weekend wear
Where to Buy: H&M, Zara Kids, Target

5. Target Girls Shorts

Target’s Cat & Jack and Art Class collections make it easy for parents to shop cute, comfy, and durable Target girls shorts. The retailer offers multipacks, denim options, printed pull-ons, and activewear — all at affordable prices.

Best For: School, daycare, playgrounds
Where to Buy: Target.com, in-store

Shopping for Age-Appropriate Styles

Little Girls Shorts (Ages 2–6)

When shopping for little girls shorts, prioritize soft fabrics and elastic waistbands for easy dressing. Look for:

  • Drawstring closures
  • Cotton blends
  • Bright colors or playful patterns

Recommended Brands: Carter’s, The Children’s Place, OshKosh B’gosh

Big Girls Shorts (Ages 7–14)

For older kids, style becomes more important. Look for features like:

  • High-waisted fits
  • Side pockets
  • Denim or cargo materials

Brands like Gap, Abercrombie Kids, and Justice offer plenty of options.

Specialty Brands You’ll Love

Lululemon Girls Shorts

Yes, even Lululemon makes girls’ apparel now! Lululemon girls shorts are typically performance-based, using sweat-wicking fabrics and flat seams. They’re designed for yoga, dance, and other mindful movements.

Best For: Active girls, dance, summer sports
Where to Buy: Lululemon.com

Under Armour Girls Shorts

Under Armour girls shorts are another athletic favorite, built for durability and comfort. Featuring lightweight, quick-drying materials and elastic waistbands, they are ideal for sports or gym class.

Best For: Athletes, school PE, summer camps
Where to Buy: Under Armour stores, Academy Sports, Kohl’s

Girls Shorts on Sale: How to Save Money

Shorts are a seasonal item, so the best time to shop is end-of-season sales — typically late summer or right before back-to-school season. Here’s how to score deals:

  • Check Clearance Sections: Retailers like Kohl’s and Walmart often have markdowns.
  • Sign Up for Email Alerts: Brands send discount codes to subscribers.
  • Use Cashback Apps: Apps like Rakuten or Honey can give rebates or find coupon codes.

Tips for Choosing the Right Shorts

Whether you’re shopping for fashion or function, here are some helpful tips:

1. Check the Inseam

Shorter inseams are fine for play, while longer ones offer more modesty or protection during sports.

2. Fabric Matters

Cotton is soft and breathable, while polyester blends dry quickly — perfect for active kids.

3. Look for Pockets

Older girls often prefer having side or back pockets for practicality.

4. Easy to Wash

Choose machine-washable fabrics that hold up after multiple cycles.

Most Popular Stores to Buy Girls Shorts

Here’s a quick list of top-rated stores with great selections:

StoreStrengths
TargetAffordable, trendy styles
Old NavyGreat deals and variety
AmazonConvenient with tons of options
Carter’sPerfect for toddlers and little kids
Abercrombie KidsHigh-quality, stylish options
WalmartBudget-friendly and accessible
LululemonPremium activewear for girls
Kohl’sFrequent sales and brand variety
Gap & Gap FactoryClassic, well-fitting styles
Under ArmourDurable athletic wear

Final Thoughts

From athleticwear to fashion-forward pieces, girls shorts come in endless styles to match every personality and activity level. Whether you’re searching for the latest Nike Pro girls shorts, adorable little girls shorts, or scoring a deal on girls shorts sale items, there’s something for everyone.

Prioritize comfort, fit, and quality — and don’t forget to keep an eye on those seasonal sales! Your child will thank you for shorts that let her move, play, and shine with confidence.

Published
Categorized as All Fashion, Casual & Streetwear, Women’s Fashion