There probably isn't a garment more closely associated with the summer than the classic denim short. Whether you're into the ultra-mini, figure-hugging Daisy Dukes, or the oversized boyfriend 'jorts' that have dominated the social media trend cycle for the past six months – there's really no denying their prevalence and timelessness.

As we head into warmer weather (in the southern hemisphere at least), it's time to start thinking about beginning the search for the perfect pair of denim. Some vintage Levi's cut-offs, perhaps? Maybe some classic, relaxed-fit indigos are more your style? Whatever your prerogative, budget or style, we've got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the best denim shorts for summer, below.

Best classic denim shorts

If what you're looking for is a stock-standard, no-frills-attached, flattering denim short that will go with just about anything, then these are the selects for you. Straight-down-the-line indigo washes with no heavy distressing or embellishing – the kind that will compliment just about any summer ensemble you dare to throw on. We can't go past a standard pair of ABRAND A Carrie Shorts in Naomi, or ASSEMBLY LABEL's Mid Rise Vintage Denim Short. For a slightly shorter inseam, we're loving the Nude Lucy Organic Mom Short and for a relaxed, wider leg, we can't forget about St. Agni's Denim Mid Rise Shorts in Indigo and GRLFRND's Reggie Mid Rise Long Mom Short.

Best white denim shorts

The white denim short is a summertime affair – perfect for sitting wharf-side, or for strolling the beach. They come in just as many silhouettes and styles as their indigo counterparts, but are a great way to elevate the casual appeal of the everyday denim look. For a more tailored look, we love the cream shade of DISSH's Bambi Cream Bermuda Denim Shorts, or these POSSE Drew Hotpant in Vintage White.  Citizen Of Humanities Ayla Short are great for a casual off white go-to, but for the ultimate classic pair of white denim, we'd recommend the Elka Collective Odin Shorts in Ivory or CAMILLA AND MARC's Jude Denim Short in Salt.

Best long denim shorts (jorts)

The jort has taken the fashionable denizens of social media by storm in recent months, and it seems like you can't go anywhere in Australia without catching a pair on the streets or at a bar – usually pared with a cardigan, tank top, baseball cap or a pair of sneakers. We're loving BASSIKE's Wide Leg Denim Short for something comfortable and chic. The COS Longline Denim Shorts offer a polished, softer wash. We're never not leaning to the dad vibes in the RUSSH office, so there's no surprise we're including LEVI'S Baggy Dad Jort. For something a little more interesting, we can't decide between GANNI's Blue Denim Shorts, or Striped Denim Shorts, so it's up to you.

Best black denim shorts

Black denim shorts offer a day-to-night option for the warmer months of the year. While they might still be associated in your mind with the pop punk days of your youth, there are so many fresh and contemporary silhouettes on the market these days – you'll hardly find yourself reminiscing. It would be a crime to not include a classic pair of Wranglers. These Hi Bells Shorts are a necessary staple in ones wardrobe. POSSE Drew Hotpants in Black and ROLLA's Super Mirage Shorts are both sleek, modern takes on the look, and we can't go past the luxury of these SAINT LAURENT Frayed Denim Shorts. Or for something a practical, why not these Carhartt Work In Progress Black Brandon Denim Shorts.

Best cut-off denim shorts

The humble cut-off denim short is about as timeless as it gets – a staple in most peoples' wardrobes from the time they're old enough to walk. Durable, comfortable and fashionable; they'll take you through the brunt of summer without too much trouble – no careful handling necessary. This season we're loving FRAME's The Dare Short in Reason, Rag & Bone's denim shorts and AGOLDE's light denim Parker Long distressed shorts. LEVIS' 501 Mid Thigh Short are shredded just enough for a worn look. For something with a little more edge, we're looking to KSUBI for their Rise N Hi Sugar Rush Short.

Best designer denim shorts

When it comes to designer and luxury denim, there are two roads you can travel down. We have the quiet luxury route – seeking out brands and garments crafted with the finest materials and an attentive hand, but which only scream luxury to the well-trained eye. For you, we'd suggest something along the lines of the PRADA Denim Shorts, or the mini Gucci Lido Denim Shorts. The other route is to go for a statement pair of denim shorts from a luxury brand – like the summer dream that are these LOEWE Leather-trimmed denim shorts, or this pair of cream Jil Sander high-rise denim shorts. CAMILLA AND MARC's Ezra Denim Short are a jort style that will never go out of style, and the distressed lines that make up these DIESEL De-Jiro shorts ensure a summer of frolicking well spent.

Best denim shorts on a budget

Not everyone is ready to drop hundreds of dollars on a pair of denim shorts – especially if you're the adventurous type, planning to spend your summer camping, hiking, and otherwise testing the limits of your garments. A pair of denim shorts for you isn't about an investment, except in the comfort and durability of their wear. But even when you're on a budget, you still want to look good. We've been loving UNIQLO U Denim Bermuda Shorts (which come in four different colour ways for all of your summer needs), as well THRILLS' Billie Low Short (currently on sale).
For an easy, wear-with-anything style, these Rolla's Super Mirage Shorts are a great option. Glassons have also long been purveyors of affordable, on-trend denim styles – take their High Rise A Line Denim Shorts, for example. And for those who love anything calling back to the 90s, these High 90s Denim Shorts are a great everyday pair to reach for from Cotton On.