Levi's Women's Premium 501 Original Shorts High Rise - Slim Thigh

Our review of the Levi's Women's Premium 501 Original Shorts finds them best suited for anyone who wants a classic, structured denim short that defines the waist and keeps a timeless look. These are high rise, non-stretch shorts with a button fly and a slim thigh cut, so the single biggest reason to buy is for a flattering, heritage silhouette that holds its shape rather than stretching out. The model in the picture is 5 ft 7 in and wearing 27 x 2.5, and the 2.5 in inseam gives a true short length that pairs well with casual tops.

Key Features

• High Rise: Sits at the natural waist to create a defined silhouette and a vintage-inspired look that flatters the midsection.
• Slim Thigh: The tailored thigh cut hugs without being overly tight, offering a streamlined appearance under shirts and cropped tops.
• Button Fly: Classic button fly hardware preserves the authentic 501 character and adds to the shorts' retro styling.
• Non-stretch Denim: Constructed from rigid denim that holds its shape and resists sagging after wear.
• Short Inseam: The 2.5 in inseam delivers a true short length for warm-weather wear while maintaining coverage at the hip.

Who It's For

The 501 Original Shorts are aimed at shoppers who prefer a heritage denim look and want shorts that feel structured rather than soft and slouchy. They work well for people who favor a defined waist and a slim thigh fit, and for anyone who likes the authenticity of a button fly and rigid denim.

These are not the best choice for buyers who need flexible, stretchy fabric, or for those who prefer a long inseam or an overly forgiving fit. If you typically require a looser, more forgiving fit or rely on stretch for comfort, consider a different short with stretch denim or a relaxed cut.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Timeless high rise design creates a flattering waistline and pairs well with crop tops and tucked shirts.
• Durable non-stretch denim keeps the shorts from sagging and maintains the original 501 silhouette over time.
• Quality construction and button fly add to the classic aesthetic and long-term value.
• 2.5 in inseam provides a true short length that is flattering for many leg shapes.

Cons

• Sizing runs mixed to small for some customers, so sizing up is often recommended to achieve the right fit.
• The rigid, non-stretch fabric may feel stiff to those who prefer soft or stretchy shorts.

Specifications

Brand	Levi's
Fit	High rise, slim thigh
Closure	Button fly
Fabric	Non-stretch denim
Inseam	2.5 in
Model size shown	Model is 5 ft 7 in wearing 27 x 2.5

Our Verdict

The Levi's Women's Premium 501 Original Shorts are a solid pick for shoppers who value a classic, structured denim short that flatters the waist and holds its shape. They offer good long-term value for anyone seeking authentic 501 styling, but shoppers should size up if they are between sizes or prefer a little extra room due to the non-stretch fabric.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts stretch with wear?
Answer. The shorts are made from non-stretch denim and are designed to hold their shape rather than stretch out significantly.

What inseam length do these shorts have?
Answer. These are a short style with a 2.5 in inseam.

Should I size up or down?
Answer. Many customers find the sizing runs small, so sizing up is often recommended, especially if you prefer less snugness in the thigh or waist.