A New Day Shorts

From skeptical shopper to devoted fan – everything you need to know about this game-changing brand

I’ll be honest with you – I used to be one of those people who turned their nose up at Target’s clothing lines. “It’s just cheap fast fashion,” I’d think while browsing through the racks half-heartedly. But then something happened that completely changed my perspective: I discovered A New Day shorts. What started as a desperate last-minute shopping trip before a weekend getaway turned into a complete wardrobe revelation that I’m still talking about months later.

Let me take you on this journey with me, because I have a feeling you’re going to want to know everything about these surprisingly amazing shorts that have somehow managed to solve nearly every summer wardrobe dilemma I’ve ever had.

My First Encounter: When Necessity Led to Discovery

It was a Thursday evening in late May, and I was frantically packing for a weekend trip to the beach with friends. As I stood in front of my closet, I realized with horror that my go-to summer shorts had somehow shrunk in the wash (or maybe I’d expanded – let’s not go there). Panic mode activated. Target was my only option at 8 PM on a weeknight, and I trudged there with the lowest possible expectations.

That’s when I first laid eyes on the A New Day shorts collection. The display was neat, organized, and surprisingly extensive. What caught my attention wasn’t just the variety, but the quality of the fabrics I could feel even through a quick touch. These weren’t the flimsy, see-through disasters I’d expected from a budget brand.

What styles of A New Day shorts are available? This was my first question, and honestly, I was blown away by the answer. The collection spans everything from classic chino shorts that could easily pass for expensive designer pieces, to flowy bermuda shorts perfect for covering up at the pool, to trendy high-waisted denim cutoffs that actually fit like they were tailored for real human bodies.

I found myself running my hands through racks of:

• Classic chino shorts in various lengths
• Denim shorts in multiple washes and rises
• Linen-blend bermuda shorts that screamed vacation vibes
• Stretch twill shorts that promised comfort without sacrifice
• Cargo-style shorts with functional pockets
• Paperbag waist shorts for that effortlessly chic look
• Athletic-inspired shorts for active days
• Dressy tailored shorts suitable for work-appropriate outfits

Standing there in that Target aisle, I realized I was looking at a comprehensive shorts wardrobe, not just a random collection of summer pieces.

The Materials Game-Changer: Quality That Surprised Me

What materials are used in A New Day shorts? This question became crucial as I started examining pieces more closely. I’m someone who reads every care label and feels every fabric blend, probably to the annoyance of other shoppers around me. But with A New Day, I was genuinely impressed.

The cotton-spandex blends felt substantial without being heavy. The linen-cotton combinations had that perfect balance of breathability and structure that prevents the dreaded linen wrinkle situation that makes you look like you slept in your clothes. The denim had stretch that actually worked – you know, the kind that moves with you rather than creating that uncomfortable digging-in situation around the waistband.

One pair of olive green cargo shorts caught my attention specifically because of the fabric composition: 98% cotton with just 2% spandex. It sounds minimal, but that tiny percentage of stretch made all the difference in comfort while maintaining the crisp, structured look of traditional cotton twill.

The lightweight summer options particularly impressed me. There’s something magical about finding shorts that are substantial enough to maintain their shape and provide appropriate coverage, yet light enough that you forget you’re wearing them on a hot day. A New Day seemed to have cracked this code across multiple styles.

The Size Situation: A Pleasant Reality Check

Are A New Day shorts true to size? This is probably the most important question for anyone shopping online or even in-store without trying things on. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive, with one caveat that I’ll share.

Most styles run true to size, meaning if you typically wear a size 8, you’ll likely be comfortable in a size 8 A New Day short. However, I noticed that the high-waisted styles tend to run slightly small in the waist while being true to size everywhere else. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – it just means you might want to size up if you prefer a more relaxed fit around the waistband.

The plus size options deserve special mention here. Do A New Day shorts come in plus sizes? Absolutely, and they’re not afterthoughts. The sizing extends well into plus sizes with the same attention to fit and style details as the straight sizes. I watched several friends try these on, and the consistent feedback was that the proportions work well across the size range.

What really impressed me was the consistency across different styles. Too often with budget brands, sizing varies wildly between different cuts or even different colors of the same style. With A New Day, once I figured out my size in one style, I could confidently order that same size in other styles with reliable results.

The Color Palette: Beyond Basic Black and Khaki

What colors do A New Day shorts come in? Prepare to be pleasantly surprised. When I first started exploring the brand, I expected the usual suspects: black, navy, khaki, maybe white if I was lucky. Instead, I found a thoughtfully curated color palette that spans both timeless neutrals and on-trend seasonal shades.

The neutral game is strong with classic colors like:

• Crisp white that actually stays opaque
• True navy that pairs with everything
• Warm khaki in multiple undertones
• Rich black that doesn’t fade to gray after three washes
• Soft gray that works for both casual and dressier occasions

But where A New Day really shines is in their seasonal color offerings. Last summer, I fell in love with a dusty rose pair that became my most-worn shorts of the season. This year, I’ve been gravitating toward their sage green and terracotta options that feel fresh without being trendy in a way that’ll look dated next year.

The denim options deserve their own mention. Beyond standard blue washes, they offer white denim that doesn’t become see-through, black denim that maintains its color, and various vintage-inspired washes that look authentically worn rather than artificially distressed.

The High-Waisted Revolution: Finally, Shorts That Work

Are there high-waisted options in A New Day shorts? Not only are there high-waisted options, but they might just be the best part of the entire collection. As someone who spent years struggling with low-rise shorts that never sat quite right, the high-waisted A New Day options felt like a revelation.

The high-waisted chino shorts have become my go-to for everything from casual weekend errands to work-appropriate summer outfits. They hit at exactly the right spot – high enough to create a flattering silhouette and tuck tops into cleanly, but not so high that they’re uncomfortable or create that unflattering bunching under fitted shirts.

What sets these apart from other high-waisted options I’ve tried is the waistband construction. Instead of a thick, rigid band that digs in when you sit, A New Day uses a contoured waistband that follows your natural waist curve. It sounds like a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in comfort during long wear.

The high-waisted denim options deserve special praise. They’ve managed to create that perfect vintage-inspired high-waisted look without the gap-at-the-back problem that plagues so many high-waisted jeans and shorts. The rise is substantial enough to be flattering but practical enough for real life.

Versatility in Action: From Casual to Surprisingly Sophisticated

Are A New Day shorts suitable for casual wear? Absolutely, but that’s just the beginning of their versatility story. Can A New Day shorts be dressed up for formal occasions? This question had me skeptical initially, but I’ve been proven wrong more times than I can count.

The tailored bermuda shorts in particular have become my secret weapon for summer events where I want to look put-together without melting in a dress or dealing with pants in 90-degree weather. Paired with a silk blouse and heeled sandals, they’ve carried me through summer work events, nice dinners, and even a couple of weddings where the dress code allowed for creative interpretation.

The styling possibilities are endless. For casual wear, I throw on the classic chino shorts with a vintage band tee and sneakers. For something more polished, the same shorts work beautifully with a tucked-in button-down and loafers. The linen-blend options are perfect for vacation days with a flowy tank top and sandals, but they clean up nicely with a structured blazer for travel days when you want to look presentable.

What I love most about the versatility is that it doesn’t require a complete wardrobe overhaul. These shorts work with pieces I already owned, which made building outfits feel effortless rather than overwhelming.

The Durability Test: How They Hold Up to Real Life

Are A New Day shorts durable for everyday use? This was the question that would ultimately determine whether my initial enthusiasm would last beyond the honeymoon phase. I’m happy to report that after multiple seasons of regular wear, my original pairs are holding up remarkably well.

The cotton-blend chino shorts have maintained their shape and color through countless washes. The stitching remains intact, and there’s no sign of the fabric thinning or pilling that often happens with budget clothing after extended wear. The hardware – buttons and zippers – has proven surprisingly robust.

I put the denim options through their paces with everything from hiking to gardening to multiple music festivals, and they’ve emerged largely unscathed. The color retention has been particularly impressive; my black denim shorts still look black rather than the faded gray that often happens with lesser quality denim.

The linen-blend shorts have surprised me the most in terms of durability. Linen has a reputation for being delicate, but the cotton blend in these shorts provides enough structure to prevent excessive wrinkling while maintaining the breathable, relaxed feel that makes linen so appealing for summer wear.

Summer-Specific Features: Beating the Heat in Style

Are there linen or lightweight A New Day shorts for summer? This question becomes crucial when temperatures soar and you need clothing that works with the weather rather than against it. A New Day has clearly put thought into creating summer-appropriate options that don’t sacrifice style for comfort.

The linen-cotton blend bermuda shorts have become my summer uniform. They’re long enough to prevent thigh chafing (a real concern in hot, humid weather), lightweight enough to keep you cool, and structured enough to look intentional rather than pajama-like. The fabric breathes beautifully, and the relaxed fit allows for air circulation without looking oversized.

For more active summer days, the stretch cotton shorts provide the perfect balance of movement and coverage. They’re substantial enough for activities like bike riding or playground duty with kids, but light enough that you won’t overheat during outdoor summer activities.

The color selection for summer pieces shows real understanding of warm-weather dressing. Light colors that reflect heat, patterns that hide inevitable summer stains, and fabrics that can handle the increased washing frequency that comes with summer wear.

The Pocket Situation: Functional Fashion at Its Finest

Do A New Day shorts have pockets? Finally, a brand that understands that women need functional pockets! This might seem like a small detail, but anyone who’s struggled with tiny, useless pockets (or no pockets at all) will understand why this matters so much.

The classic chino shorts feature real, functional front and back pockets that can actually hold a phone, keys, and other essentials. The front pockets are deep enough to secure your belongings without creating unflattering bulges, and the back pockets are positioned and sized to be genuinely useful.

The cargo-style options take pocket functionality to the next level with multiple secure pockets that make them perfect for travel or any situation where you need to carry more than the basics. I’ve used these for everything from music festivals (where I needed to secure my phone and cash) to hiking (where snacks and emergency supplies needed to be accessible).

Even the dressier styles maintain pocket functionality without compromising the clean lines that make them appropriate for more polished occasions. It’s this attention to practical details that sets A New Day apart from many other affordable fashion brands.

Price Point Reality: Quality That Makes Sense

How much do A New Day shorts cost? This is where A New Day really shines in the value proposition department. Most styles fall into the $15-25 range, with occasional sales bringing prices even lower. When you consider the quality of materials, construction, and versatility, this represents exceptional value.

I’ve compared these directly to shorts from brands that cost two to three times more, and honestly, the A New Day options often come out ahead in terms of fit, comfort, and durability. The price point makes it possible to buy multiple styles and colors without breaking the budget, which means you can actually build a complete summer wardrobe rather than just buying one or two pieces and trying to make them work for everything.

The frequent sales and promotions make the value even better. I’ve picked up additional pairs for as little as $10 during end-of-season clearances, which makes them competitive with even the most budget-friendly options while maintaining significantly higher quality.

Shopping Strategy: Where and How to Buy

Where can I buy A New Day shorts? The most obvious answer is Target stores, where you can see and feel the fabrics in person, but the online shopping experience deserves mention too. The website provides detailed size charts, fabric information, and customer reviews that make online ordering more confident.

Target’s return policy is generous, which takes some of the risk out of online ordering. I’ve ordered multiple sizes of the same style to ensure the best fit, returning the ones that didn’t work without any hassle.

The Target Circle app often provides additional discounts and early access to sales, which can make the already reasonable prices even better. I’ve learned to check the app before making any A New Day purchases to make sure I’m getting the best possible deal.

Care and Maintenance: Keeping Them Looking New

Are A New Day shorts machine washable? Yes, and this is where their practical nature really shines. Most styles can be thrown in with your regular laundry without special care requirements. I wash mine in cold water and tumble dry on low heat, and they’ve maintained their shape and color beautifully.

The linen-blend options benefit from being hung to dry rather than machine dried, but they’re still low-maintenance compared to 100% linen pieces that require careful handling. The cotton and cotton-blend styles are genuinely wash-and-wear, which makes them perfect for travel or busy lifestyles where clothing maintenance needs to be minimal.

Comparison Shopping: How They Stack Up

How do A New Day shorts compare to other brands? Having tried everything from high-end designer shorts to other budget options, I can confidently say that A New Day offers the best combination of quality, fit, and value I’ve encountered.

Compared to premium brands, A New Day shorts offer 80% of the quality at 25% of the price. The main differences are in details like hardware quality and fabric hand-feel, but for practical purposes, the performance is remarkably similar.

Compared to other budget brands, A New Day consistently wins on fit, fabric quality, and construction. The difference in how they hold up to washing and wearing becomes apparent within just a few weeks of regular use.

The Sustainability Question: Making Better Choices

Are there sustainable or eco-friendly options in A New Day shorts? While A New Day isn’t positioned as a specifically sustainable brand, their durability contributes to more sustainable consumption patterns. When clothing lasts longer and remains stylish across multiple seasons, it reduces the need for frequent replacements.

The classic styles are designed to transcend trends, which means they won’t look dated after one season. This timeless approach to design is inherently more sustainable than fast fashion pieces that are meant to be disposable.

Target has also been making efforts toward more sustainable practices across their brands, though specific information about A New Day’s sustainability initiatives isn’t prominently featured in their marketing.

Styling Secrets: Making Them Work for Every Occasion

How do I style A New Day shorts for a chic look? The key is in the details and proportions. High-waisted styles create the most flattering silhouette when paired with tops that can be tucked in or cropped to hit at the natural waist.

For a polished casual look, I pair the classic chino shorts with a silk camisole, denim jacket, and white sneakers. The contrast between refined and relaxed elements creates an effortlessly chic vibe that works for everything from weekend brunches to casual Friday at the office.

For dressier occasions, the tailored bermuda shorts work beautifully with a structured blazer, silk blouse, and heeled sandals. The longer length provides appropriate coverage while the quality of the fabric ensures they don’t look too casual for the setting.

Color coordination plays a huge role in elevating any outfit. The neutral colors in the A New Day collection make it easy to create cohesive looks, while the seasonal colors provide opportunities to experiment with trends without committing to expensive pieces.

The Comfort Factor: All-Day Wearability

Are A New Day shorts comfortable for long periods of wear? This has been one of the most pleasant surprises about the entire collection. The thoughtful construction details – like contoured waistbands, appropriate rise heights, and strategic stretch placement – make these shorts genuinely comfortable for extended wear.

I’ve worn various styles for everything from long travel days to outdoor events lasting multiple hours, and they’ve consistently performed well. The fabrics breathe appropriately, the fits allow for normal movement and sitting, and there are no uncomfortable construction details that become irritating over time.

The stretch cotton options are particularly impressive for active days or situations where you’ll be sitting for extended periods. The stretch is subtle enough to maintain a polished appearance but functional enough to provide real comfort benefits.

Customer Feedback and Reviews: What Others Are Saying

Where can I find reviews for A New Day shorts? The Target website includes customer reviews that provide valuable insights into fit, sizing, and real-world performance. Reading through these reviews before purchasing has saved me from a few potential sizing mistakes and helped me choose the best styles for my needs.

The overall customer satisfaction appears to be very high, with most negative reviews focusing on sizing questions rather than quality concerns. The most common praise points to value, versatility, and comfort – exactly the qualities that have made me a devoted fan.

Social media also provides abundant real-world styling inspiration, with customers sharing how they’ve incorporated A New Day shorts into their wardrobes for various occasions and personal styles.

Popular Styles: The Crowd Favorites

What are the most popular styles of A New Day shorts? Based on availability, reviews, and social media presence, the classic chino shorts and high-waisted denim options seem to be the most beloved styles.

The classic chino shorts appeal to the widest range of customers because they’re versatile enough for multiple occasions and flattering on various body types. They’re the style I recommend most often to friends who are new to the brand.

The high-waisted denim shorts have gained popularity as vintage-inspired styling has become more mainstream. They offer the appeal of designer denim trends at an accessible price point.

Bermuda-length styles seem to be gaining popularity as more people discover the comfort and versatility of longer shorts for both practical and styling purposes.

Final Thoughts: Why A New Day Shorts Deserve a Place in Your Wardrobe

My journey with A New Day shorts has been one of pleasant surprises and practical discoveries. What started as a desperate shopping trip has turned into a genuine appreciation for a brand that prioritizes fit, quality, and value in equal measure.

These shorts have solved multiple wardrobe challenges: the need for comfortable daily wear, the desire for versatile pieces that work across various occasions, and the practical requirement for clothing that holds up to real life while remaining budget-friendly.

The buying guide for A New Day shorts ultimately comes down to understanding that these pieces offer designer-quality features at accessible prices. They’re not trying to be luxury fashion, but they deliver on the promise of well-made, thoughtfully designed clothing that works for real people living real lives.

Whether you’re building a summer wardrobe from scratch, looking to replace worn-out favorites, or simply wanting to try a new brand without a significant investment, A New Day shorts represent one of the best values in contemporary women’s fashion. They’ve earned their place as staples in my wardrobe, and I suspect they’ll earn a place in yours too.

After experiencing the quality, versatility, and value that A New Day shorts offer, I can’t imagine going back to my previous shopping habits. Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you least expect them, in the most familiar places, from brands you never thought would surprise you. This has been exactly that kind of discovery, and I’m grateful for that desperate Thursday evening that led me to find my new favorite summer essential.