The $35 Denim Hack: Why Old Navy’s High-Waisted Baggy Shorts Are Selling out Everywhere
By Maya Lin-Takahashi
Q1: Do these shorts stretch out and sag after several hours of wear?
A1: Pairs cut from 100% cotton experience a minor half-size break-in during the first hour of wear as the fibers relax, but they maintain their high-rise structure without sagging at the rear. Pairs woven with 1% elastane retain their initial waist circumference through full days of movement.
Q2: How do they perform on petite frames without looking overwhelming?
A2: Shoppers under 5'4" should order the dedicated Petite inseam (around 5 inches) rather than sizing down in the Standard cut. The Petite pattern features a proportionally reduced front and back rise, preventing the waistband from climbing too close to the ribcage.
Q3: Does the distressed raw hem keep unraveling in the laundry?
A3: A subtle lock-stitch runs horizontally along the hem roughly 0.25 inches above the raw edge. This prevents loose threads from unraveling further. Washing them inside-out on a cold cycle and line drying prevents unwanted tangling.
Q4: Should curvy shoppers size up to guarantee a loose leg opening?
A4: Sizing up is generally unnecessary. The leg openings feature a generous flare specifically designed to leave ample clearance around the quads and hamstrings, even on full-hipped frames.
Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.
