The J.Crew shorts every girl will have this summer

Denim shorts once dominated fashionistas, but over the past few years, the style set has turned toward more chic and comfortable shorts trends that transition seamlessly between moods, shoes, and wardrobes. One standout style leading this change is the cotton poplin short. While brands like Lacet, Mateu and Totem have been perfecting this look for several seasons now, J.Crew is now proving its place in this category with its cruise shorts.

As one of J.Crew’s most exciting new arrivals, these shorts follow the success of its viral Luna pants. Cruise shorts are a cotton poplin style with an adjustable waistband, side pockets and a slightly curved, mid-length hem. A rope cord adds a nautical, sporty vibe, while crisp poplin provides just enough structure to keep them looking and feeling polished. They’re available in three neutral colors – black, khaki and white – as well as a vibrant red, making it an easy, wearable option for those experimenting with color this summer. The best part is that they come in an inclusive size range from XXXS to 3X.

Like other beautiful poplin options, cruise shorts offer incredible versatility. They can be worn with a light sweater and loafers on the weekend in the city, worn with a pool-side bikini and straw tote on vacation, or even styled with a button-down shirt and closed-toe heels for the office, depending on the work environment and attire.

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At Who What Wear, we’re J.Crew stans, so naturally, we keep an eye on every new arrival, and we noticed these shorts the moment they debuted. While some of us are postponing our shopping, Senior Fashion Editor Alison Pair Immediately wrapped them in red colour.

She’s so impressed with them that she’s already planning to buy a second pair. “The quality of the fabric is very good,” she told me. “Typically, poplin shorts are thin and wrinkled, but these are the exception. They run large, but I like that they’re a little oversized.”

If you want to get ahead and secure a summer 2026 ticket before the season officially starts, keep scrolling. Below, we’ve included all four shades along with more essential new arrivals from J.Crew.