Can you help me find my perfect pair of shorts?

[ZoeRedbirdsLongLostSister]

I’m looking for size 16-18 loose fitting shorts with an elasticated waist that won’t dig in and hurt. I love the look of denim shorts but I’ve had some before and I tend to find the material too heavy and end up too hot.
So preferably a soft, lightweight-ish material but not sheer. They have to be at least mid thigh length to stop chub rub but I’m happy with longer.
I am hoping for something smarter than the men’s sweat shorts which I was eyeing up the other day. So can anyone out there help me please?

How about these from Batsheva? No elasticated waistband but more dressy than most.

Cos seems to have what you’re looking for, in checks:

https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/loungewear/product.gingham-linen-shorts-blue.1196750001.html#gallery-product-1

or plain:

https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/trousers/product.elasticated-linen-shorts-beige.1174233003.html

The sand and white colours are available in an 18, full price. The orange only in a 16, but reduced in price.

Or, if you wanted perfection, you might consider these. MH sizing is generally huge so the 16 might even be roomy.

https://lucyandyak.com/collections/shorts

Lucy and Yak have loads to choose from…

Oh I’m loving the Cos ones and Lucy and Yak ones. Thank you.

Nect have some lovely linen shorts with an elasticated waist but with a button front so they look a bit more stylish.

Ooh I just bought some from Roman - look very smart, stretchy.

Yours - they’re my go to for the type of shorts you mention. Very soft, elasticated. Their jogger shorts are amazing, not thick jogger material but more like a thick cotton jersey. I have 3 pairs of them!

The Roman ones - search for turned hem stretch shorts. I'm not sure how to link, sorry.

I could some good elasticated ones from Tesco a couple of years ago.