Denim shorts (like Gap)

[OhCobblers]

The Gap ones are the perfect colour and length (not too short for someone heading towards their 50s!) but sold out in my size.
H&M are the closest comparison but wonder if there are other "holy grail" ones out there I should look at?!
I'm generally a size 12.

Mine are Levis - I'm old, little and a bit fat (14) but they are so comfortable and quite flattering, I think.

Next boy shorts. I’m a short size 14 and never ever wore shorts in public. Until these

Try Boden. Their shorts come in several different lengths

I’ve got some from Fat Face I wear all the time.

The Hush ones are flattering, even on my flabby old bum and thighs