Finding Your Perfect Pair: Why Auden Shorts Are Becoming a Wardrobe Staple

There’s something undeniably satisfying about finding that perfect pair of shorts. You know the ones—they fit just right, feel incredibly soft against your skin, and somehow manage to look good whether you’re lounging at home or running a quick errand. In the ever-expanding universe of comfortable clothing options, Auden shorts have emerged as a true game-changer in the world of affordable loungewear.

As someone who’s spent far too many hours in search of the ideal balance between comfort and style, I’ve developed something of an obsession with finding those unicorn clothing items that truly deliver on their promises. When I first stumbled across Auden shorts during a late-night Target run (we’ve all been there), I was skeptical. Could these reasonably-priced shorts really compete with the pricier options in my drawer? The answer, which might surprise you as much as it did me, is a resounding yes.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Auden shorts—from the materials that make them so deliciously comfortable to the range of styles available. I’ll share honest insights about how they hold up after multiple washes, which patterns are worth your attention, and why these humble shorts might just become the MVPs of your wardrobe. Whether you’re a longtime Auden enthusiast or completely new to the brand, there’s something here for everyone who appreciates the simple pleasure of really good shorts.

What Exactly Are Auden Shorts?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify what we’re talking about. Auden is one of Target’s in-house brands, primarily focused on intimates, sleepwear, and loungewear. Launched in 2019 as part of Target’s effort to revamp their clothing lines, Auden quickly gained popularity for offering stylish, comfortable options at accessible price points.

Auden shorts specifically refer to the range of casual, comfortable shorts offered under this brand. They span various categories, including sleep shorts, lounge shorts, and casual wear shorts. What sets them apart is their thoughtful design that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style—a balance that’s surprisingly difficult to achieve, especially at their price point.

The brand has positioned itself as an inclusive option for everyday essentials, with a focus on creating pieces that work for a diverse range of body types and preferences. Unlike some budget-friendly brands that offer limited options, Auden provides variety in terms of cuts, materials, and aesthetic choices.

What I particularly appreciate about Auden shorts is that they don’t try too hard. There’s an unpretentious quality to them—they’re not screaming for attention or trying to incorporate every trending design element. Instead, they focus on getting the basics right: comfortable fabrics, reliable construction, and silhouettes that actually flatter real bodies.

The Material Matters: What Makes Auden Shorts So Comfortable

When it comes to loungewear and sleep shorts, the material is make-or-break. No matter how cute a pair of shorts might look, if they’re made from scratchy, stiff, or otherwise uncomfortable fabric, they’ll inevitably end up at the bottom of your drawer.

Auden shorts excel in the material department, offering a variety of fabric options that prioritize softness and breathability. The most common materials you’ll find include:

1. Cotton Blends: Many Auden shorts feature cotton-rich blends that offer the perfect balance of breathability and softness. These typically include a small percentage of spandex or elastane for stretch, giving you that comfortable give when you move, sit, or stretch.
2. Modal Fabrics: Some of the softest options in the Auden line incorporate modal, a semi-synthetic fabric made from beech tree pulp. Modal is known for its exceptional softness and drape, making it perfect for sleep shorts that feel luxurious against the skin.
3. Jersey Knits: For those who prefer a t-shirt-like feel, Auden offers several options in light jersey knits that provide that familiar, lived-in comfort from the first wear.
4. Lightweight Woven Fabrics: For those who prefer a more structured short, there are also options in lightweight woven fabrics, often with subtle patterns or textures.

What’s impressive about Auden’s approach to materials is the attention to detail at such an accessible price point. The fabrics don’t feel cheap or flimsy—they have a substantial feel that suggests durability, while still maintaining the lightness and breathability you want in lounge and sleepwear.

I’ve found that even after multiple washes (and I’m talking dozens here), my Auden shorts have maintained their softness without developing that stiff, cardboard-like quality that often plagues budget-friendly cotton items. The colors stay true, and the fabric doesn’t develop those tiny annoying pilling balls that can make even the cutest shorts look worn out and shabby.

Perhaps most importantly for those of us who run hot while sleeping, these shorts are genuinely breathable. There’s nothing worse than waking up overheated because your sleepwear is essentially trapping all your body heat, and Auden shorts successfully avoid this common pitfall.

Style Varieties: Finding Your Perfect Auden Short

One of the strengths of the Auden shorts line is the variety of styles available. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach to design, the brand offers multiple silhouettes that cater to different preferences and body types.

The most popular styles include:

Relaxed Lounge Shorts: These feature a relaxed fit through the hip and thigh with a comfortable elastic waistband. They typically hit at mid-thigh and offer the most casual, laid-back option in the lineup.

Boxer-Style Shorts: Inspired by traditional boxer shorts but designed specifically for women, these shorts feature a slightly more structured fit with a button or snap closure and an elastic waistband. Some versions include a functional drawstring for additional adjustability.

Sleep Shorts: Usually the softest and most lightweight options, these shorts are designed specifically for sleeping and often come in fun patterns and prints. They typically feature a very flexible waistband and prioritize movement and comfort above all else.

Dolphin/Runner-Style Shorts: These sporty options feature the classic curved hem design that’s slightly higher on the sides, reminiscent of vintage running shorts. They offer extra freedom of movement and a slightly sportier aesthetic.

Bike Shorts: While technically part of the Auden intimates line rather than sleepwear, their bike shorts deserve mention for their versatility. These longer shorts provide extra coverage and can be perfect for sleeping if you prefer more modest options or want to prevent skin-to-skin contact while sleeping.

What I appreciate about this variety is that it acknowledges that we all have different preferences when it comes to how our shorts fit and feel. Some people want that ultra-loose, barely-there sensation, while others prefer a more secure fit that stays in place throughout the night. Rather than forcing everyone into the same design, Auden offers options that respect these differences.

The aesthetic variety is equally impressive. From solid colors and subtle heathered effects to vibrant prints and playful patterns, there’s something for every taste. Whether you prefer understated neutrals or bold statement pieces, you’ll find options that speak to your personal style.

Size Range: Inclusive Options for Every Body

In an era where brands are finally beginning to recognize the importance of size inclusivity, Auden stands out for offering a genuinely broad range of sizes. This commitment to inclusivity has been part of the brand’s DNA from the beginning, and it’s refreshing to see it applied consistently across their shorts collection.

Auden shorts typically range from XS to 4X, with some styles extending even further into plus sizes. This range encompasses approximately US sizes 0-26, making these shorts accessible to a much wider audience than many comparable brands at similar price points.

Beyond the simple size range, what’s notable is that Auden has put thought into how different body types might experience the same garment. The construction and proportions are adjusted across the size spectrum, rather than simply scaling up the same design. This means that larger sizes aren’t just bigger versions of the smaller sizes—they’re thoughtfully designed to maintain the same level of comfort and flattering fit regardless of your size.

For those who fall between sizes or have proportions that don’t always align with standard sizing (which, let’s be honest, is most of us), the stretch component in many Auden shorts provides forgiving fit flexibility. The elastic waistbands are generally comfortable without digging in, and the leg openings offer freedom of movement without excessive gaping.

I’ve found that Auden shorts tend to run true to size, though if you prefer a more relaxed fit for sleeping or lounging, sizing up can provide that extra bit of comfort. The product descriptions on Target’s website often include specific fit notes for each style, which can be helpful when ordering online without the benefit of trying items on first.

Price Point: Affordable Luxury for Everyday Wear

One of the most compelling aspects of Auden shorts is their price point. In a market where “affordable” loungewear can still easily cost $30-50 per item, Auden shorts typically retail between $8-15, making them an accessible option for quality basics.

Individual shorts generally fall in the $8-12 range, while multipacks (typically containing 2-3 pairs) might run $15-20, offering even better value. This pricing strategy positions Auden shorts as an attainable luxury—they feel like a treat without requiring a significant financial investment.

What’s impressive is how much quality Auden manages to pack into this price point. These aren’t the paper-thin, one-season wonders that often populate the budget clothing space. Instead, they offer substantial fabrics, thoughtful design details, and construction that holds up to regular wear and washing.

For those mindful of their clothing budget, Auden shorts represent a smart investment in everyday comfort. Rather than spending three or four times as much on premium loungewear brands that offer marginally better quality, many shoppers find that Auden hits the sweet spot of value and performance.

Target also frequently includes Auden items in their sales and promotions. During major shopping events like Target Circle Week or seasonal clearances, you can often find these already affordable shorts at even deeper discounts. For the truly budget-conscious, watching for these promotions can make building a wardrobe of comfortable basics even more accessible.

Where to Buy: Finding Your Perfect Pair of Auden Shorts

As an exclusive Target brand, Auden shorts are available only through Target’s retail channels. However, this limitation in distribution doesn’t mean limited access—Target’s omnichannel approach makes these shorts easily accessible through multiple shopping avenues.

The most comprehensive selection can be found on Target’s website (Target.com) or through their mobile app. The online experience allows you to filter by size, style, color, and price, making it easy to narrow down options based on your specific preferences. The website also features customer reviews, which can be invaluable when trying to determine how a particular style fits or feels.

If you prefer to shop in person, Auden shorts are carried in the women’s intimates and sleepwear section of physical Target stores. The in-store selection may be somewhat more limited than what’s available online, particularly in smaller format stores, but most locations carry a representative range of the most popular styles and sizes.

For those who want the best of both worlds, Target’s “Order Pickup” and “Drive Up” services allow you to browse and purchase online, then collect your items from your local store, often within just a few hours. This approach combines the comprehensive selection of online shopping with the immediate gratification of in-store purchasing.

Target’s return policy applies to Auden shorts, generally allowing returns within 90 days if you’re not satisfied with your purchase. This generous return window makes trying new styles relatively risk-free, particularly if you’re ordering online without the benefit of trying items on first.

It’s worth noting that as a Target-exclusive brand, Auden shorts aren’t available through third-party retailers like Amazon or department stores. While this might seem limiting at first glance, it actually ensures consistent pricing and authenticity—there’s no need to worry about counterfeit products or unauthorized sellers when purchasing from Target directly.

Seasonal Availability: Year-Round Comfort

Auden shorts maintain a consistent presence in Target’s inventory throughout the year, though the specific styles, colors, and patterns may shift with the seasons. This year-round availability makes them reliable staples that you can replenish as needed, without having to stock up during limited windows of availability.

During spring and summer months, you’ll typically find the widest selection of Auden shorts, with an emphasis on lighter fabrics, brighter colors, and seasonal prints. This expanded warm-weather collection often includes more options in lightweight cotton blends and breathable knits.

In fall and winter, while the selection may be somewhat reduced, Target continues to carry Auden shorts for those who prefer them for sleeping year-round. During cooler months, you might find more options in slightly heavier fabrics or cozier materials like brushed cotton. The color palette often shifts toward deeper tones and more subdued patterns during these seasons.

What’s particularly nice about Auden’s approach to seasonal availability is that while they do introduce new colors and patterns regularly, they also maintain a core collection of basics that remain consistent. If you find a style you love in a neutral color like black, gray, or navy, chances are you’ll be able to replace it with an identical or very similar option when needed, regardless of when you’re shopping.

For those who like to coordinate their sleepwear, Auden typically releases shorts alongside matching tops, allowing you to create cohesive sets if desired. These coordinated releases tend to happen most frequently around major shopping seasons and at the transition between seasons.

Comfort for Lounging and Sleeping: The Real-World Test

Theory and specifications are one thing, but the true test of any loungewear comes when you actually live in it. After extensive personal experience with various Auden shorts styles (and, I’ll admit, perhaps too many pairs in my drawer), I can offer some insights on how they perform in real-world lounging and sleeping scenarios.

For sleeping, Auden shorts excel in several key areas. First, they stay in place remarkably well throughout the night. There’s nothing more annoying than shorts that twist around while you sleep or ride up uncomfortably, and most Auden styles avoid this common pitfall. The elastic waistbands strike that perfect balance of being secure enough to keep the shorts positioned correctly without being so tight that they leave marks or cause discomfort.

The breathability of the fabrics used makes these shorts suitable for year-round sleeping for many people. In warmer months, they allow sufficient airflow to prevent overheating, while in cooler weather, they can be easily paired with a long-sleeve top or worn under blankets without becoming stifling.

For lounging around the house, Auden shorts offer the versatility that modern life demands. They’re comfortable enough for extended Netflix marathons or lazy Sunday mornings, but presentable enough that you won’t feel the need to change if someone unexpectedly rings your doorbell. The modest length of most styles (typically mid-thigh) provides enough coverage to feel appropriate when collecting packages or checking the mail.

What particularly impresses me is how well these shorts transition between activities. They’re comfortable enough to sleep in, practical enough to cook breakfast in, and put-together enough to wear while working from home. This versatility makes them excellent value, as they truly function as all-day wear rather than being limited to specific contexts.

The comfort factor extends to various body positions and activities. Whether you’re sitting cross-legged on the couch, stretching out for some gentle morning yoga, or curled up with a book, Auden shorts move with you rather than restricting movement or requiring constant adjustment.

Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Auden Shorts Looking Great

One of the practical advantages of Auden shorts is their easy care requirements. In our busy lives, clothing that demands special treatment often ends up unworn, regardless of how cute or comfortable it might be. Thankfully, Auden shorts are designed with real-life practicality in mind.

Most Auden shorts are machine washable on a standard gentle cycle with similar colors. They don’t require special detergents or washing methods, though as with most clothing items, turning them inside out before washing can help preserve colors and prints over time.

For drying, while you can typically use a dryer on low heat, air drying will extend the life of the elastic components and help maintain the shape and fit of your shorts. If you do use a dryer, removing the shorts while still slightly damp and allowing them to finish drying flat can prevent shrinkage and maintain the intended fit.

One of the impressive aspects of Auden shorts is their durability through repeated washing. The colors generally remain vibrant without significant fading, and the elastic retains its resilience rather than quickly becoming stretched out or ineffective. The stitching holds up well, avoiding the unraveling that often plagues lower-priced garments.

If you’re dealing with specific stains, treating them promptly before washing is always best. For most common stains, a gentle stain remover applied according to the product directions should suffice without damaging the fabric. As always, checking the care label on your specific pair is recommended, as care instructions may vary slightly between different styles and fabric compositions.

How Auden Shorts Compare to Other Brands

In the increasingly competitive loungewear and sleepwear market, how do Auden shorts stack up against other options? Having tried numerous brands across various price points, I can offer some comparative insights.

When compared to other budget-friendly options from retailers like Old Navy, H&M, or Walmart’s in-house brands, Auden shorts generally offer superior fabric quality and more thoughtful design details. The fabrics typically feel softer against the skin and maintain that softness better through washing than many comparably priced alternatives.

Compared to mid-range brands like Gap Body, American Eagle’s Aerie, or Victoria’s Secret PINK, Auden shorts offer surprisingly similar quality at a significantly lower price point. While these mid-tier brands might occasionally edge out Auden in terms of fabric innovation or trend-forward designs, the core comfort and durability factors are remarkably comparable despite the substantial price difference.

When looking at premium loungewear brands like Eberjey, Lunya, or Cozy Earth—which can easily cost $50-100 for a single pair of shorts—the value proposition of Auden becomes even more apparent. While these luxury options may offer incremental improvements in terms of fabric quality or specialized features, the question becomes whether those differences justify paying 5-10 times more for essentially the same item.

Where Auden particularly excels in these comparisons is in its consistency. Rather than offering one or two standout products alongside mediocre options, the brand maintains a reliable standard of quality across its various shorts styles. This consistency makes Auden a brand you can trust when trying new styles or ordering online without previous experience with a particular design.

The Versatility Factor: Beyond the Bedroom

While Auden shorts are primarily marketed as sleepwear and loungewear, their appeal extends beyond the confines of your home. The thoughtful design and quality construction of many styles make them suitable for a variety of casual situations.

Many of the more structured styles, particularly those in solid colors or subtle patterns, can easily double as casual wear for quick errands, beach coverups, or relaxed summer days at home. Paired with a simple t-shirt or tank top, these shorts look intentional rather than like you’ve just rolled out of bed.

The boxer-style shorts, in particular, have gained popularity as casual wear, fitting into the current trend toward comfortable, slightly oversized silhouettes. These can be styled with a cropped tee or even a loose button-down shirt for a look that’s both comfortable and fashion-forward.

For those who exercise at home, several Auden shorts styles work perfectly for light workouts like yoga, pilates, or casual walks. While they’re not designed as performance wear for high-intensity activities, they offer sufficient comfort and range of motion for more gentle forms of movement.

This versatility adds significant value to your purchase, essentially giving you sleepwear, loungewear, and casual wear all in one affordable package. Rather than maintaining separate wardrobes for sleeping, lounging, and running quick errands, you can streamline your clothing collection with pieces that serve multiple purposes.

It’s worth noting that this crossover potential varies somewhat by style. The more traditional pajama-style shorts with obvious sleep-oriented prints might not transition as seamlessly to public wear, while solid colors and more structured designs offer greater versatility.

Customer Reviews and Feedback: The Verdict from Real Users

One of the advantages of shopping for widely available products like Auden shorts is the wealth of customer feedback available. Target’s website features thousands of reviews across the various Auden shorts styles, providing valuable insights from real users with different body types, preferences, and expectations.

The overall consensus among reviewers is overwhelmingly positive, with most styles maintaining average ratings between 4 and 5 stars. Recurring themes in positive reviews include appreciation for the softness of the fabrics, satisfaction with the fit across various body types, and comments on the excellent value for the price.

Many reviewers specifically mention the durability of Auden shorts, noting that they hold up well through multiple washing cycles without significant deterioration in fit or feel. This longevity is frequently cited as a factor that elevates these shorts above other budget-friendly options that might look similar at first glance.

The inclusive sizing also receives consistent praise, with reviewers across the size spectrum reporting that they feel the shorts are thoughtfully designed for their body type rather than simply scaled up or down from a standard model. This attention to proportional design across sizes is still relatively rare, particularly at this price point.

Where critical feedback does appear, it most commonly relates to specific preferences rather than quality issues. Some users report preferring a longer or shorter inseam than what’s offered in a particular style, or wishing for additional color options. These preference-based criticisms rarely detract from the overall positive assessment of the shorts’ comfort and value.

The reviews also reveal some practical insights that might not be immediately apparent from product descriptions alone. For example, many reviewers note that the elastic waistbands maintain their resilience well over time, avoiding the common problem of becoming stretched out and ineffective after repeated wear.

Final Thoughts: Why Auden Shorts Deserve a Place in Your Wardrobe

After spending considerable time with various Auden shorts styles and researching the broader customer experience, I’m convinced that these affordable basics deserve more recognition than they typically receive. In a market often dominated by either ultra-cheap, disposable options or unnecessarily expensive premium brands, Auden offers that rare middle ground of quality, comfort, and accessibility.

What makes Auden shorts truly special is their commitment to getting the fundamentals right. Rather than chasing trends or adding unnecessary features, they focus on the elements that actually matter in everyday wear: comfortable fabrics, thoughtful construction, inclusive sizing, and designs that work for real bodies.

The price point makes these shorts accessible to virtually everyone, democratizing comfort in a way that feels genuinely refreshing. There’s something powerful about knowing that genuinely comfortable, well-made basics don’t have to be a luxury reserved for those with significant disposable income.

For those new to the brand, I’d recommend starting with one of the core styles in a neutral color to get a feel for the fit and fabric. From there, you can explore some of the more playful patterns or varied silhouettes with confidence in the brand’s consistent quality.

Whether you’re looking to refresh your sleepwear collection, find comfortable options for working from home, or simply add some affordable everyday basics to your wardrobe, Auden shorts offer a combination of quality, comfort, and value that’s genuinely difficult to beat. In a world where so many products fail to live up to their promises, these humble shorts deliver exactly what they claim—and sometimes, that’s the most impressive feat of all.