Jorts are shorts made out of denim fabric, essentially jean shorts. They can be cutoffs made by cutting old jeans or manufactured as store-bought denim shorts. Typically, jorts are loose-fitting and range from mid-thigh to knee- length or longer. The term "jorts" is a portmanteau of "jeans" and "shorts" and has been in use since the 1990s. While often associated humorously with unfashionable or "dad" styles, jorts have also become a trendy piece in modern streetwear, embraced by various subcultures and fashion brands. They can vary from raw, frayed-cut styles to more polished looks and have been popular in different decades, including a recent resurgence in fashion in the 2020s.
Key Characteristics of Jorts
- Made from denim, either blue or black.
- Typically loose or baggy fit.
- Length varies but often covers mid-thigh or longer.
- Often feature raw or frayed hems.
- Versatile in styling, from casual to streetwear.
- Associated with both vintage and modern fashion trends.
Cultural and Fashion Context
- Originated in the 1960s counterculture as cutoffs.
- Linked with various subcultures like punk, hip hop, and skateboarding.
- Worn humorously or ironically by some, while embraced genuinely by others.
- Experienced waves of popularity from the 1990s to today.
- Recently, long, wide-leg jorts have become a popular summer trend among younger generations and luxury designers.
In summary, jorts are denim shorts, often loose and comfortable, with a rich cultural history and evolving fashion relevance.