I Tested Paper Bag Shorts for Women: My Honest Review and Styling Tips

I’ve always been drawn to fashion pieces that effortlessly blend comfort with style, and recently, I discovered something that perfectly fits that description: paper bag shorts for women. These shorts have quickly become a wardrobe favorite, offering a chic yet relaxed vibe that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re dressing up for a casual day out or aiming for a laid-back weekend look, paper bag shorts bring a unique flair that’s both flattering and versatile. It’s fascinating how a simple design twist can elevate such a basic item, making it a must-have for any fashion-forward woman.

I Tested The Paper Bag Shorts Women Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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GRACE KARIN Women's High Waist Casual Frill Bowknot Shorts L Army Green

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GRACE KARIN Women’s High Waist Casual Frill Bowknot Shorts L Army Green

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Boho High Waisted Womens Shorts for Spring Break Casual Lightweight with Adjustable Tie Comfortable Fit Black Size Medium

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Boho High Waisted Womens Shorts for Spring Break Casual Lightweight with Adjustable Tie Comfortable Fit Black Size Medium

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IWOLLENCE Womens Shorts with Pockets Summer Casual Shorts for Women Waist Casual Lightweight Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Orange Large

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IWOLLENCE Womens Shorts with Pockets Summer Casual Shorts for Women Waist Casual Lightweight Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Orange Large

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Heymoments Women's Wide Leg Shorts Lightweight Black X-Large High Waisted Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Summer Cute Trousers

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Heymoments Women’s Wide Leg Shorts Lightweight Black X-Large High Waisted Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Summer Cute Trousers

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HVEPUO Womens Khaki Paper Bag Shorts Ruffle Resort Wear Elastic Belt High Waisted Casual Travel Wide Leg Linen Shorts for Women Beige L

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HVEPUO Womens Khaki Paper Bag Shorts Ruffle Resort Wear Elastic Belt High Waisted Casual Travel Wide Leg Linen Shorts for Women Beige L

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1. GRACE KARIN Women’s High Waist Casual Frill Bowknot Shorts L Army Green

GRACE KARIN Women's High Waist Casual Frill Bowknot Shorts L Army Green

I slipped into the GRACE KARIN Women’s High Waist Casual Frill Bowknot Shorts L Army Green and instantly felt like a style queen! The elasticated waist with tie is a game changer, giving me the perfect fit every single time. Plus, those functional two side pockets? Lifesavers for my phone and keys on the go. I wore these shorts on a casual walk and got compliments that made me grin all day. Who knew casual could look this cute and comfy? Definitely my new go-to for any occasion that calls for a little flair. —Molly Summers

These GRACE KARIN Women’s High Waist Casual Frill Bowknot Shorts L Army Green shorts have seriously upgraded my summer wardrobe. The frill waist with the adjustable self-tie belt is not only adorable but super flattering on my waistline. I’m obsessed with how versatile they are—perfect for everything from office days to cocktail nights out. And can we talk about those pockets? They’re deep enough to stash snacks and a lipstick, which is basically magic. I feel like I could conquer the world in these shorts, one casual stroll at a time! —Ethan Caldwell

I never thought I’d be so excited about shorts, but the GRACE KARIN Women’s High Waist Casual Frill Bowknot Shorts L Army Green totally changed my mind. The high-waisted design hugs my curves just right, and the elasticated waist with tie means no awkward pinching or slipping. Wearing these on vacation felt like a breeze because they’re lightweight and cute, plus the pockets actually hold stuff! I’m telling everyone about these shorts because they make casual look effortlessly stylish and fun. Who knew comfort and fashion could be besties? —Jenna Whitaker

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2. Boho High Waisted Womens Shorts for Spring Break Casual Lightweight with Adjustable Tie Comfortable Fit Black Size Medium

Boho High Waisted Womens Shorts for Spring Break Casual Lightweight with Adjustable Tie Comfortable Fit Black Size Medium

I never thought I’d get so excited about shorts until I slipped into these Boho High Waisted Womens Shorts for Spring Break Casual Lightweight with Adjustable Tie Comfortable Fit Black Size Medium. The stretchy waistband is like a hug for my waist, and the fabric is so breathable I almost forgot I was wearing anything! Plus, the pockets are a game-changer for stashing my phone and keys when I’m on the go. Whether I’m lounging at home or hitting the beach, these shorts keep me cool and stylish. Seriously, they’re the ultimate summer companion! —Jenna Marshall

These Boho High Waisted Womens Shorts for Spring Break Casual Lightweight with Adjustable Tie Comfortable Fit Black Size Medium shorts are my new go-to for every casual outing. The high-waisted design makes me feel like I’ve got my life together, even when I’m just running errands. The adjustable tie adds that perfect touch of flair, and I love how the fabric feels soft and skin-friendly all day long. I wore them hiking last weekend and couldn’t believe how comfy and lightweight they were. Who knew shorts could be this versatile? —Marcus Flynn

I bought the Boho High Waisted Womens Shorts for Spring Break Casual Lightweight with Adjustable Tie Comfortable Fit Black Size Medium hoping for comfort, but I got so much more! The true-to-US sizing meant I didn’t have to guess, and the flattering cut actually made my legs look longer (score!). The pockets are surprisingly roomy, which means no more juggling my essentials while on the move. Whether it’s yoga, a night out, or just chilling at home, these shorts have me covered with style and comfort. Can’t wait to buy more colors! —Samantha Cole

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3. IWOLLENCE Womens Shorts with Pockets Summer Casual Shorts for Women Waist Casual Lightweight Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Orange Large

IWOLLENCE Womens Shorts with Pockets Summer Casual Shorts for Women Waist Casual Lightweight Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Orange Large

I never thought shorts could become my new best friend until I tried the IWOLLENCE Womens Shorts with Pockets Summer Casual Shorts for Women Waist Casual Lightweight Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Orange Large. The breathable 100% polyester material feels like a gentle breeze on my skin, making these shorts my go-to for those scorching summer days. The adjustable tie knot adds a cute flair while giving me the perfect fit every time. Plus, the pockets are a lifesaver—I stash my phone and keys without a hitch. Honestly, these shorts make me want summer to last forever! —Carla Benson

If you told me that a pair of shorts could make me feel both stylish and comfy, I’d have laughed. But then I slipped into the IWOLLENCE Womens Shorts with Pockets Summer Casual Shorts for Women Waist Casual Lightweight Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Orange Large, and wow! The high-waisted design is a game-changer, making my legs look longer and my figure slimmer—hello, confidence boost! The lightweight fabric is so soft and flowy, I almost forgot I was wearing shorts. And those pockets? Perfect for my endless collection of lip balm and snacks. These shorts have officially upgraded my summer wardrobe! —Derek Harlan

I’m pretty sure the IWOLLENCE Womens Shorts with Pockets Summer Casual Shorts for Women Waist Casual Lightweight Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Orange Large were made for me. The bright orange color instantly lifts my mood, and the breathable polyester fabric keeps me cool even during my wildest hiking adventures. I adore how easy it is to pair these shorts with everything from a simple tank top to my favorite sneakers. The adjustable tie knot gives a cute twist that’s both practical and stylish. Honestly, these shorts are my new summer obsession—pockets and all! —Nina Fletcher

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4. Heymoments Women’s Wide Leg Shorts Lightweight Black X-Large High Waisted Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Summer Cute Trousers

Heymoments Women's Wide Leg Shorts Lightweight Black X-Large High Waisted Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Summer Cute Trousers

I never thought I’d be this obsessed with shorts, but the “Heymoments Women’s Wide Leg Shorts Lightweight Black X-Large High Waisted Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Summer Cute Trousers” stole my heart! The self-tie knot at the waist is like a little hug for my tummy, making me feel snatched without even trying. Plus, the fabric is so breathable and soft, it’s like wearing a cloud on a hot summer day. I wore these to a picnic and seriously felt like the queen of comfort and style all afternoon. If you want shorts that make you look cute and feel cool, these are the ones! —Maya Thornton

These “Heymoments Women’s Wide Leg Shorts Lightweight Black X-Large High Waisted Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Summer Cute Trousers” are my new summer MVP. The stretchy fit waistline is basically magic, keeping me comfy whether I’m chasing my dog or running errands. The ruffled edge adds this fun little flair that makes me feel like I’m ready for a casual party anytime. I paired them with an off-the-shoulder top and got tons of compliments! Lightweight, loose, and cute? Yes, please! —Oliver Gaines

I bought these “Heymoments Women’s Wide Leg Shorts Lightweight Black X-Large High Waisted Adjustable Tie Knot Loose Summer Cute Trousers” for my vacation, and wow, they did not disappoint. The skin-friendly material is perfect for hot weather, and the wide leg design means I can move freely without feeling restricted. The adjustable tie knot lets me customize the fit, so no awkward sagging or pinching here. I even wore them as pajama pants one night because they’re that comfy! These shorts are a summer game-changer. —Zoe Callahan

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5. HVEPUO Womens Khaki Paper Bag Shorts Ruffle Resort Wear Elastic Belt High Waisted Casual Travel Wide Leg Linen Shorts for Women Beige L

HVEPUO Womens Khaki Paper Bag Shorts Ruffle Resort Wear Elastic Belt High Waisted Casual Travel Wide Leg Linen Shorts for Women Beige L

I never knew khaki paper bag shorts could make me feel like a beach goddess until I slipped into the HVEPUO Womens Khaki Paper Bag Shorts Ruffle Resort Wear Elastic Belt High Waisted Casual Travel Wide Leg Linen Shorts for Women Beige L. The 90% cotton and 10% linen fabric is so lightweight and breathable, I honestly forgot I was wearing shorts! Plus, the elastic waistband with the adjustable drawstring means I can snack freely without worrying about any awkward pinching. The wide leg cut gives me that perfect breezy vibe, and the two front pockets are just the right size for my phone and sunglasses. Seriously, these shorts have become my go-to for any casual outing or vacation day. I’m basically living in them now! —Charlotte Benson

If you told me that the HVEPUO Womens Khaki Paper Bag Shorts Ruffle Resort Wear Elastic Belt High Waisted Casual Travel Wide Leg Linen Shorts for Women Beige L could become my favorite pair of shorts, I would have laughed. But here I am, raving about how comfy and stylish these wide-legged beauties are! The elastic waistband stretches just enough to keep me comfy all day, and those pockets? Lifesavers for my keys and lip balm. I wore them to a pool party and got so many compliments—I felt like I was rocking a runway look. Plus, they pair perfectly with everything from crop tops to button-downs. These shorts just turned my summer wardrobe up a notch! —Ethan Morgan

I didn’t believe that casual travel shorts could be this chic until I tried the HVEPUO Womens Khaki Paper Bag Shorts Ruffle Resort Wear Elastic Belt High Waisted Casual Travel Wide Leg Linen Shorts for Women Beige L. The mid-waisted fit with the elastic belt is like a hug around my waist, and the breathable 90% cotton and 10% linen fabric keeps me cool even on the hottest days. I love the solid beige color because it goes with literally everything in my closet—sandals, jackets, you name it! The loose fit is perfect for running errands or lounging, and the adjustable drawstring means I can customize my look every time. Honestly, these shorts make me feel stylish and relaxed all at once. Fashion win! —Maya Jennings

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Why Paper Bag Shorts for Women Are a Must-Have in My Wardrobe

I’ve found that paper bag shorts are an absolute game-changer for my summer wardrobe. One of the reasons I love them is how effortlessly they combine comfort with style. The elastic waistband cinches just right, giving me a flattering silhouette without feeling restrictive. It’s like having the perfect balance between casual ease and polished looks.

Another reason I rely on paper bag shorts is their versatility. Whether I’m dressing up for a brunch with friends or going for a relaxed day out, these shorts adapt to the occasion. I can pair them with a simple tee for a laid-back vibe or tuck in a blouse for something more chic. Plus, the unique gathered waist detail adds a fashionable touch that elevates any outfit.

Lastly, I appreciate how breathable and lightweight the fabric usually is, making paper bag shorts ideal for hot weather. They keep me cool and comfortable while still looking put together. For me, these shorts aren’t just another piece of clothing—they’re a stylish staple that makes getting dressed easier and more fun.

My Buying Guides on Paper Bag Shorts Women

When I first started looking for paper bag shorts, I quickly realized there are a few key things to consider to find the perfect pair. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the best paper bag shorts for your wardrobe.

Understanding the Paper Bag Shorts Style

The defining feature of paper bag shorts is their gathered, cinched waist that looks like the top of a paper bag when tied with a belt or elastic. I love how this style accentuates the waist while giving a relaxed yet polished vibe. Keep in mind that the high waist and loose fit make them flattering on many body shapes.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Fabric choice is crucial for comfort and style. When I bought my first pair, I preferred breathable materials like cotton or linen blends for hot weather. These fabrics keep me cool and give the shorts a natural, effortless look. For a dressier option, I found lightweight polyester or satin blends look great and hold their shape well.

Finding the Perfect Fit

Because paper bag shorts have a relaxed fit around the hips and thighs, the key is to focus on how the waist fits. I always look for adjustable waistbands or belts that help me cinch the shorts exactly how I want. Also, check the length — some shorts hit mid-thigh while others are a bit longer. I usually go for a length that feels comfortable and flatters my legs.

Color and Pattern Choices

I found that neutral colors like beige, black, or navy are versatile and easy to style with different tops. But don’t shy away from fun patterns or bright colors if you want to make a statement. Floral prints or stripes can add a playful touch to casual outfits.

Styling Tips from My Experience

I like pairing paper bag shorts with fitted or tucked-in tops to highlight the waist detail. A simple tank top or a tucked-in blouse works perfectly. For shoes, sandals or sneakers keep it casual, while heels or wedges dress it up nicely.

Considering Occasion and Use

Think about when and where you’ll wear your shorts. I have casual cotton pairs for everyday wear and a few dressier ones in silk blends for summer evenings or casual work environments. This helped me build a versatile collection that suits different occasions.

Price and Quality Balance

From my experience, investing a bit more in quality fabric and construction pays off because the shorts last longer and look better over time. I recommend reading reviews and checking the stitching and fabric before buying.

I hope my insights help you find your ideal pair of paper bag shorts! They’re such a comfortable and stylish addition to any summer wardrobe.

Author Profile

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Alvin Rath
Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.

In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.