Step 1: Buy the Pants

Go to your local thrift store, such as Good Will, and buy some high waisted jeans. These will usually cost between $5-$10.

Step 2: Cut the Pants

Using a normal pair of scissors, cut the jeans to the length you desire. You may want to try them on and mark the length you desire before you begin.

Step 3: Fringe

Using either a fork or your hand, fringe the shorts. If you use a fork, go across the denim horizontally, then vertically. If you use your hands, pull out loose strings one by one

Step 4: Cut Holes (optional)

Using a razor blade or scissors, press down and slice holes is the shorts. Use your hands to pull them apart more. Then wash the shorts to make the shorts look more distressed.

Step 5: Bleach (optional)

Mix a solution of bleach and water: 50% bleach to 50% water. Dip the end of the shorts in for a look that fades to dark, or the desired light part completely in the solution. Watch carefully so you can pull out when desired color is reached

Step 6: Wash

Rinse the bleach out of the shorts by mixing water and vinegar. Soak shorts in solution and wring out the bleach, then, wash again to be sure all the bleach is out.