Blue Mid Wash vs Light Wash Distressed Shorts: Which to Buy
By Femme Luxe | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Blue Mid Wash and Light Wash Long Distressed Front Shorts from Rae. See how wash, price, and outfit flexibility differ so you can pick the right pair.
Quick answer
Choose the Blue Mid Wash Long Distressed Front Shorts - Rae if you want a deeper, more versatile denim that works day to night and costs less. Choose the Blue Light Wash Long Distressed Front Shorts - Rae if you prefer a brighter, casual look and don't mind paying a little more for the lighter finish.
Why the wash changes more than color
The mid wash reads as a classic, slightly darker blue that pairs easily with both neutrals and bold colors. It tends to look a bit more polished, so it can move from a casual daytime outfit to an evening look with heels. The light wash is brighter and more casual, which makes it a natural match for white tees, pastel tops, and sneakers. Neither is better in every situation; the right choice depends on how often you dress up versus down.
Both shorts share the same long distressed front and frayed hem, so the silhouette and attitude are identical. The difference is purely the wash and the price. That means you can focus your decision on which blue you reach for most often.
Price and value trade-off
At catalog prices, the mid wash is USD 11.39 (compared with USD 18.98), while the light wash is USD 13.48 (also compared with USD 18.98). Both are discounted from the same comparison price, but the mid wash saves you about USD 2 more. If you're buying on a tight budget or want to test the fit before committing to more colors, the mid wash is the lower-risk buy.
That said, a small price difference shouldn't override your preference if you know you'll wear the lighter wash more. Think of the extra spend as paying for the color you'll actually reach for.
Fit and sizing: what to check before you buy
Both styles are available in sizes 6–14, and the catalog doesn't list stretch content or rise, so you can't confirm those details from the product page. If you're between sizes or prefer a specific rise, check the size guide or contact the store before ordering. Because the shorts are described as long with a distressed front, the leg length and amount of distressing are fixed; if you want a shorter or cleaner hem, neither pair is the right match.
Key trade-offs to decide
- Color depth vs brightness: Mid wash is deeper and more neutral; light wash is brighter and more casual. Pick the one that matches the tops you already own. Lay out your three most-worn summer tops and see which wash complements them best.
- Price vs preference: Mid wash costs USD 11.39; light wash costs USD 13.48. The mid wash saves about USD 2, but only you know if the lighter shade is worth the extra. If you're undecided, start with the cheaper mid wash and add the light wash later if you wear it often.
- Dress up vs dress down: Mid wash works with heels for evening; light wash is strongest with sneakers and casual tops. Choose based on your typical plans. Count how many times a month you'd wear each look; let the higher number decide.
Product facts at a glance
- Blue Mid Wash Long Distressed Front Shorts - Rae: Mid wash blue denim with a long distressed front and frayed hem, available in sizes 6–14. The darker wash is easier to dress up or down, so it earns its place in more outfits.
Blue Mid Wash Long Distressed Front Shorts - Rae - Blue Light Wash Long Distressed Front Shorts - Rae: Light wash blue denim with the same long distressed front and frayed hem, available in sizes 6–14. The lighter blue gives a more casual, summery look that stands out with simple tops.
Blue Light Wash Long Distressed Front Shorts - Rae
Who should buy which
Best for
- Shoppers who want one pair of distressed denim shorts that works for both casual and dressier outfits.
- Budget-conscious buyers who want the lower price of the two styles.
Not for
- Anyone who specifically wants a bright, summery light wash and doesn't mind paying more.
- Shoppers who need a shorter inseam or a clean hem without distressing.
