Grlfrnd Helena Shorts

Your New Go-To Denim Shorts for Effortless Summer Style

As soon as the weather starts warming up, I start counting down the days until I can break out my favorite pair of Grlfrnd Helena shorts. These distressed denim cutoff shorts have become my warm weather wardrobe staple over the past few summers. Their perfectly vintage wash and frayed hem give them that cool, laidback vibe that just screams summer.

If you’re looking for the perfect denim shorts to wear all season long, then the Grlfrnd Helena shorts need to be on your radar. I’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide covering everything you need to know before adding these shorts to your closet. From sizing and fit to styling and care, consider this your ultimate resource for finding your perfect pair!

What Exactly Are Grlfrnd Helena Shorts?

Grlfrnd is an LA-based denim brand that has become hugely popular for their vintage inspired washes and trendy distressed detailing. The Helena is one of their signature silhouette shorts, featuring a high rise waist, cutoff hem, and slight distressing along the leg.

These shorts are made from soft stretch denim that hugs your curves in all the right places. The fabric has the perfect amount of give to keep you comfortable while maintaining structure. I love the visible fraying along the leg openings and hem for that lived-in, boho vibe.

Overall, the Helena shorts have a slouchy, tomboyish look that is so on-trend for summer style. The high waist is super flattering and the relaxed fit through the hips and thighs makes them easy to dress up or down. They’re the ultimate pair of shorts to throw on with a tee or tank in warm weather.

Finding Your Perfect Grlfrnd Helena Shorts Fit

Nailing the fit is crucial when shopping for any new pair of denim shorts. Here’s what to keep in mind about the Helena’s sizing and fit:

• Runs large: These shorts fit oversized, especially in the waist. Size down for a more tailored look.
• Stretchy denim: The material has plenty of give for a comfortable fit with a structured feel.
• Relaxed through hips/thighs: The loose, slouchy silhouette is meant to skim (not cling) to your curves.
• High-rise waist: The waistband hits right at the belly button for a leg lengthening effect.
• Distressed detailing: Light fading and fraying along legs for a lived-in vibe.

I’m typically between a 25-26 in jeans and shorts. For the Helena’s, I sized down to a 24 for a fit that was snug but not too tight. The denim relaxed a bit after a few wears.

If you prefer a looser, more oversized look, consider sticking with your normal size. But keep in mind the waist runs large. For a sleeker fit, size down one. This will prevent gapping at the back of the waistband.

Overall, the Helena runs true-to-size after you account for the intentionally oversized silhouette. Just be sure to factor in stretch and take your own fit preferences into account when selecting your size.

Where to Buy Grlfrnd Helena Shorts

The best place to buy Grlfrnd denim is directly from the Grlfrnd website. They offer the full range of washes, sizes, and newest releases online.

You can also find the Helena shorts at many popular online retailers like Revolve, Nordstrom, Shopbop, and ASOS. Department stores like Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue also carry the brand.

For brick-and-mortar stores, check out major retailers that stock contemporary denim brands. Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks locations will have the best Grlfrnd selection. You may also be able to find the Helena shorts at specialty boutiques that carry trend-driven designer denim.

I always recommend trying to buy them directly from Grlfrnd when possible. Their website will have the most size and wash options to choose from. Plus you can score discounts by signing up for email alerts about new arrivals and sales.

Determining Your True Grlfrnd Helena Shorts Size

Finding your perfect Helena shorts size requires a bit of trial and error because of the oversized silhouette. Here are my top tips for determining your true size:

• Try them on in store: Visit a retailer that carries Grlfrnd so you can get a feel for the fit. Bring other denim you own in the size that typically fits you best.
• Measure a well-fitting pair: Use the measurements of shorts you already own that fit well to compare against the Helena’s size chart. Focus on waist, hip, and inseam measurements.
• Read online reviews: Sizing feedback from people who have already purchased can give you a sense of how they run. Look for reviews with body type and height for the most useful info.
• Ask the experts: Reach out to the Grlfrnd customer service team via chat or email for personalized sizing recommendations based on your measurements.
• Order two sizes: Buy your normal size and one size down to compare at home. Return the pair that doesn’t flatter your figure best.
• Preview the fit: Use the Grlfrnd website to see how each size looks on the model. This gives you a visual of the overall silhouette before ordering.

By taking the time to understand the oversized fit and experiment with a couple sizes, you’ll home in on your ideal Helena shorts that you’ll reach for all season long.

How Much Do Grlfrnd Helena Shorts Cost?

Grlfrnd denim carries designer price tags, with most styles ranging from $150-$250. The signature Helena shorts sit at the higher end of their collection, retailing for $238 on average.

Here is an overview of the price range you can expect from retailers:

• Grlfrnd website: MSRP of $238
• Revolve: $218-$238
• Nordstrom: $125-$238 (depending on seasonal sales)
• Bloomingdale’s: $114-$238 (during sales and promotions)
• ASOS: $119-$220

The distressed white Helena’s tend to be the most expensive option. I’ve seen pricing go up to $258 for this coveted bleach wash style.

For the best deal, watch for sales at major retailers like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s that carry the shorts. Sign up for email lists and shop seasonal sales to potentially score them for under $150.

While splurging $200+ on denim shorts may seem steep, the Helena’s luxe fabric and flawless fit make them well worth the investment in my book. Cost per wear makes them a bargain when you consider how often you’ll reach for them each summer!

Styling Your Grlfrnd Helena Shorts for Summer

The laidback vibe of the Helena shorts make them a breeze to dress up or down all season long. Here are some of my favorite ways to style them for summer:

• Tuck in a relaxed graphic tee or slouchy oversized tank for weekend vibes
• Balance the distressed denim with a feminine silky cami or lace bralette
• Channel surfer chic with a breezy button down shirt left open
• Go neutral on top with a white or black tee to let the shorts make a statement
• Add an effortless denim jacket for the perfect double denim pairing
• Play with proportions and pair with an off-the-shoulder crop top
• Dress them up with a blazer and ankle-strap block heel sandals for date night
• Create monochromatic magic by matching to a denim corset or bustier top
• Contrast the relaxed shorts with a more tailored silk blouse or wrap top
• Slip on classic white sneakers or sliders for an easy daytime look

Dress them up, dress them down – the styling options are truly endless with the Grlfrnd Helena shorts. Have fun mixing and matching your favorite tops and footwear all season long!

Available Colors and Washes

From bright white to pitch black, you can find the Helena shorts in an array of gorgeous washes and colors. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Light Blue Wash: The OG Helena wash features sun-faded light denim with whiskering and distressing. A true vintage look.
• Medium Wash: A darker, more uniform mid-blue wash without whiskering. Creates a clean, sleek silhouette.
• Black Wash: For the edgiest vibe, the deep black wash goes with everything. Adds a grunge feel.
• White Wash: A bright white bleach wash creates a retro high waist short. Eye-catching and so fresh.
• Light Acid Wash: Vintage 90s vibes with this medium blue lightly acid-washed denim with orange stitching.
• Checker Print: A trans-seasonal black and white gingham print pairs easily with any color top.

Check the Grlfrnd website for their latest seasonal colors and prints. There are always fun new options being released!

The All-Day Comfort Factor

Apart from looking incredibly stylish, the Helena shorts are also designed for comfort. The stretch denim has the perfect amount of give, so you stay comfortable even after hours of wear.

The waistband is wide and elasticized to move with you without pinching or digging. I often bend down in my Helenas and never have to readjust like with stiffer denim shorts.

The frayed cutoff hem prevents any leg chafing issues, even in warmer climates. And the cheeky but not too cheeky length means you never have to worry about exposure as you move.

I can easily spend a full day exploring, shopping, lounging in my Helenas. No matter how much walking, sitting, or activity I do, they maintain their shape and feel great from first wear to last.

For a flattering high waist shorts that won’t pinch, squeeze, or ride up – the Grlfrnd Helena checks every comfort box.

Caring for Your Grlfrnd Shorts

Like all designer denim, the Helena shorts require some extra care to keep them looking and feeling brand new:

• Wash infrequently – only when truly dirty. Frequent washing will cause fading. I wash mine every 5-7 full day wears.
• Wash cold & gentle cycle – hot water can damage and shrink the material. Use a delicate cycle to be safe.
• Air dry – never put Grlfrnd denim in the dryer! Always hang or lay flat to dry to prevent shrinking.
• Spot clean – for light staining between wears, spot treat and hand wash affected areas only. Avoid full soaks.
• Avoid bleach or other harsh chemicals that can break down elasticity. Mild detergent is best.
• Store folded or hanging – do not bunch denim together tightly to prevent creasing over time.

With proper care between washes, your Helena’s will maintain their flawless fit and finish for many summers of wear. Follow these guidelines to get the longest life from your investment denim.

The Fabric That Makes Them So Great

It’s the premium fabrics that set Grlfrnd denim apart from other brands. The Helena shorts are constructed from:

• Soft stretch cotton – breathable cotton with elastane fibers woven in for flexible stretch and recovery. So comfy!
• Non-compression denim – provides structure without squeezing your curves. Maintains its shape all day.
• Pre-washed denim – specially washed and dyed for a vintage, lived-in look and feel right away.
• Medium weight 9 oz. denim – the perfect thickness that holds its shape but still feels light and airy to wear.
• Ethically sourced – made from sustainably grown natural cotton in a fair wage factory.

You truly get what you pay for with the luxe fabrics used in Grlfrnd denim. The quality materials make the shorts feel like an instant second skin.

Do They Stretch Out Over Time?

Thanks to the stretch-cotton blend, the Helena shorts mold to your body gracefully without over-stretching. The denim is designed to retain its structure and bounce back wear after wear.

In my experience, the shorts will relax ever so slightly after the very first wear as the fibers adjust to your shape. But the change is subtle. They won’t lose their snug fit with more wears over time.

I’ve had my Helena’s for three summers now and they still fit and feel exactly like the first time I tried them on. No sagging, warping, or losing shape.

The perfect amount of stretch means you get that broken-in, comfortable feel immediately. But the flattering silhouette stays structured season after season.

Can The Length Be Altered?

Like any denim shorts, a tailor can easily trim or hem the Helena shorts to customize the length. Here are your alteration options:

• Shorten the inseam – to make them more cheeky if you prefer less coverage
• Lengthen the inseam – if you want more of a Bermuda short length
• Taper the leg – take in the sides for a slimmer, less flared shape
• Crop the length – cut to an even higher rise at mid-waist level

Just bring your Helena’s to any local tailor or seamstress. With denim alterations being so common, most are experts at working with thicker fabrics like jean material.

The distressed frayed edges may pose a challenge for major length changes. But slight shortening or lengthening is definitely possible to get that perfect custom fit.

Returns Are Easy – If Needed!

One perk of buying directly from the Grlfrnd website is their generous return policy. You have 30 days from delivery to return unworn shorts for a full refund.

If purchasing from a retailer, return policies can vary. Many allow at least 28 days for returns to get your money back. Be sure to check individual policies before purchasing.

In case the sizing, fit, or wash color of the Helena’s doesn’t work out as hoped, exchanging sizes for free is easy. Returns are avoided by taking accurate measurements beforehand and understanding the distressed oversized style.

But trying on at home allows you to ensure total satisfaction with your expensive denim purchase – and retailers know that. Take advantage of lenient policies just in case!

How Grlfrnd Stacks Up to Similar Brands

Grlfrnd has managed to stand out in the designer denim space for their flattering vintage fits and trend-driven washes. The Helena specifically has earned its status as the ultimate cutoff short.

Here’s a quick brand comparison if you’re considering other contemporary denim labels:

• Frame: Comparable quality and price point to Grlfrnd. Their Le Cutoff Short has a lower rise rise and more clingy fit through the hips.
• Levi’s: More affordable price point but fabrics are thinner and washes less trendy. Great for basic cutoff shorts.
• Agolde: Known for their crinkle fabric and innovative fabrics. The Pinch Waist Short has a higher rise but tighter fit than the Helena.
• Mother: Mother makes great distressed shorts but most styles sit lower on the hips. Runs pricey.
• Reformation: Eco-friendly brand but denim fits very snug through the hips and rear. Not ideal for a relaxed short.

While the Helena certainly commands a higher budget, the luxe fabrics, flawless vintage washes, and cool LA vibe give them their own lane in the denim market. The unbeatable fit and comfort make them well worth the price tag.

What Do Customer Reviews Say?

Scouring online customer reviews is always one of my go-to tips before buying any new clothing item. For the Grlfrnd Helena shorts, the feedback is overwhelmingly 5 stars.

Here are some of the most common praise points I found across reviews:

• Flattering high-rise fit – creates an elongating leggy look
• Soft, stretchy fabric – moves with your body and doesn’t pinch
• True vintage wash – looks perfectly broken-in right away
• Great distressed details – not overdone but still edgy and trendy
• Ideal summer staple – wearable in heat and perfect length
• Holds shape all day – no sagging or losing structure
• Worth the splurge – retains quality and color wash after wash
• True to size when sized down – prevents waist gaping

After reading the rave reviews from real customers, I knew the Helenas would deliver on both style and comfort. The feedback gave me confidence I was making a worthwhile investment that I’d return to for endless summer outfit pairings.

Best Discounts and Sales for the Helena’s

Grlfrnd denim doesn’t frequently go on sale, but deals can be found at specific times of the year. Here are the best times to score a discount:

• Black Friday/Cyber Monday – retailers like Nordstrom, Revolve, and Shopbop run site-wide sales with 25-30% off or more.
• Post-Holiday Sales – December and January see end-of-season sales with deep discounts at major retailers.
• Summer Sales – markdowns on warm-weather items like shorts around July/August before fall collections hit.
• Grlfrnd Email List – occasionally they send out sitewide promo codes for 10-15% off to subscribers. Sign up for access to these rare deals.
• Influencer Promo Codes – follow Grlfrnd brand reps and influencers on IG for occasional exclusive discount codes.
• Secondhand Sites – you may get lucky finding newly listed Helena’s on Poshmark, Depop, etc. for under retail.

Setting alerts and notifications around major sales periods is your best bet for scoring a great deal. Retailers want to clear out warm weather stocks before new season arrivals. Take advantage of the discounts!

Perfect Tops to Pair With the Helena Shorts

One thing I love about the Helena shorts is how seamlessly they pair with virtually any type of top. From tanks to blazers, here are my favorite tops for complementing the shorts:

Tanks & Tees: A classic tee or tank in a solid color or graphic print looks so chic tucked into the Helena’s waist. I especially love a cropped boxy tee to show a sliver of skin.

Cropped Sweaters: A cropped cable knit or fuzzy sweater balances the distressed denim beautifully. Try cropped cardigans and hoodies too.

Silky Camisoles: A silky spaghetti strap adds gorgeous contrast and amps up the feminine vibe. Slip styles and lace trim camis work well.

Oversized Button Downs: Leave an oversized collared shirt open and sleeves rolled up over a tank for model-off-duty energy.

Corset & Bustier Tops: Play with proportions by pairing the loose shorts with a dainty corset or bustier top. So statement-making!

Cropped Blazers: Add a cropped black or white blazer for an instantly dressier vibe. Looks so polished!

Going-Out Tops: Have fun pairing barely-there bralettes, wrap tops, off-the-shoulder styles and other sexy blouse when hitting the town.

Truly anything you love wearing can work with the versatile Helena shorts for the ultimate warm weather outfit.

The Perfect Shorts Inseam Length

The Grlfrnd Helena shorts hit at the 5 inch inseam mark, giving them that perfectly slouchy, cheeky but not too cheeky length. Here’s what to know about the measurement:

• 5 inch inseam falls mid-thigh on most heights for great coverage.
• Not too short – provides more modesty than a micro 2-3 inch inseam short.
• Not too long – preventing an awkward Bermuda short length.
• Leg elongating – the frayed hem shows off just enough leg for a slimming effect.
• Moves with you – the inseam length prevents any exposure issues when walking, sitting etc.
• Flattering on most – the medium inseam works for petite to tall figures.

The 5 inch distressed hem gives you that cool, vintage cutoff short look without veering into booty short territory. For a leg-baring short, look for a 3 inch inseam or shorter instead.

Year-Round Wearability

Can you sport the Grlfrnd Helena’s beyond the warm weather months? Absolutely!

In summer, I love wearing them with cropped tanks, tees and slip dresses. When temperatures drop, pair them with:

• Oversized sweaters and sweater vests
• Leather, denim or sherpa jackets on top
• Tall boots like Uggs or cowboy boots
• Patterned tights underneath
• Cropped fuzzy pullovers and cardigans

The medium wash Helena’s look especially chic in fall paired with neutrals and earth tones. Add a beanie once it gets cold out for cute weekend wear.

Come spring, you can start styling them with dresses, cropped blazers and lighter layers again.

The versatility of the Helena shorts lets you transition them through 3 full seasons of outfits!

Which Celebs Are Helena Fans?

It’s always fun to see how your favorite celebrities style the Helena shorts for their off-duty looks.

Among the many A-listers spotted in the shorts are:

• Hailey Bieber – she pairs her Helena’s with oversized blazers and tees
• Kendall Jenner – often wears the black wash Helena’s when off-duty
• Gigi Hadid – stuns in Helena’s dressed up with heels and sleek tops
• Bella Hadid – rocks the light wash with her edgy streetstyle
• Emily Ratajkowski – chose the Helena’s for her casual maternity style
• Kaia Gerber – wears the Helena’s out with 90s band tees and sneakers

It’s clear that stylists and celebs agree – the Helena is the ultimate cool girl denim short worth investing in.

The Final Verdict: Worth the Investment?

After reviewing all the pros of the Grlfrnd Helena shorts, my verdict is a resounding yes – they are absolutely worth the designer price tag.

The luxe fabrics, flawlessly vintage wash options, and trendy distressed details give them such a unique look and feel. The leg-lengthening silhouette is universally flattering and they only get softer over time.

While cheaper denim shorts exist, none capture that covetable effortless California girl vibe quite like the Helena’s. They’re the type of piece you throw on and instantly feel 10x cooler.

If you’re looking to treat yourself to a timeless pair of denim shorts you’ll want to live in all summer (and beyond), make the investment. These will be your new favorite wardrobe staple for years to come!