What style shorts are flattering if you have a thick torso and a belly?

[WhoWhereWhatWhy]

I’m a size 12, very short and have a proper belly but slim (albeit it saggy) legs. No bum anymore. Close to 50.

Colour wise, I can wear anything pale as I’m milky white skin toned. I also get hot really easily so denim is out I think.

I’ve decided though that this is the summer I will wear shorts, having not worn a pair for a good 25 years. I have loads of t-shirts and short sleeve shirts that I wear with knee length or midi skirts but I think some shorts would be useful, so where do I start?! I’m looking for flattering but this is a real step into the unknown for me.

Drapery and flowy
shorts. Above the knee.
I too have decided to get my lega out this year!

I think A line shorter shorts are flattering on most shapes.
Flowy above the knee it a bit Boy Scout.

Shorts are very hard to pull off unless you are a willowy teen. I haven't worn any for decades either (short with stocky legs and pale skin!). But then I do think sod it, why do I care? They are cool and comfy! I have a pair in a drawer that I bought a few years ago and I reckon they are as flattering as any shorts would ever be on me. They are a lightweight material, land somewhere around mid thigh, and are wide and floaty. The width of them make my legs look comparatively less like tree trunks. Don't go too long or you will look like a guide leader going on a hike (not that there is anything wrong with this but I am guessing it's not the look you're going for).

Should have said ‘I can’t wear anything pale’ rather than ‘I can’ (I also can’t seem to be able to edit)

I had to google A line shorts, but all I can see is denim ones or proper tailored ones that look v smart as part of a co-ord type thing

I’m going to have to go into stores and try on in person aren’t I … (changing room mirrors and all that!)

Honestly shorts just aren't flattering. Even the aforementioned willowy teens look way better in other things. But it is hot af so I am wearing them anyway. The world will just have to cope.

I have a similar situation and tend to avoid shorts because of it. I have yet to find a really flattering pair (sorry!). In particular I find it's disturbingly easy to look like Benny Hill in his Boy Scout outfit.

If I had to wear shorts (and I actually think a dress is much cooler in hot weather) then I would go for a shorter-length pair (not Bermuda length) with an untucked floaty top.

The only reason I would ever wear shorts is to try and get a tan while out and about. They are simply unflattering on the vast majority of people and definitely LESS comfortable in the heat than dresses or light trousers. If tanning isn't your goal and they don't look or feel good, then why wear them?

I find a chino style above knee the most flattering, I also prefer a lower waist rather than a really high waist if it’s hit and sometimes size up. Definitely worth trying some on - I find H&M often gave a very wide selection.

Chino style with a floaty crisp cotton( not thick jersey) or linen vest top
i wear this and have actually had compliments despite being 60 disabled with CP and left leg covered with a multitude of surgical scars
As my late DM always said, " Nobody would stop a bus just to look at you"😆

I'm also short with a tummy btw

I buy all my clothing from Vinted and all my chino/ cargo shorts are M&S and next average £3 each