Chubbies: The Casual Shorts Brand Built in South Carolina

What Chubbies Are and Where They Started

Chubbies are short shorts—typically hitting above the knee—made by a South Carolina company that began as a college project and grew into a national brand. The company was founded in 2011 by four friends at the University of South Carolina who wanted to bring back the shorter, more relaxed shorts style that had fallen out of fashion. What started as a dorm-room idea became a retail business with a brick-and-mortar store in Columbia and a strong online presence.

The brand's identity centers on comfort, color, and a deliberately casual aesthetic. Chubbies shorts come in solid colors and patterns—everything from neon to pastels to classic neutrals—and the company markets them as everyday wear for warm weather, beach trips, and laid-back social events. The fit is intentionally loose and the inseam short, designed to move away from the long, baggy shorts that dominated the 2000s and 2010s.

The company has remained based in South Carolina throughout its growth, which is unusual for a retail brand that expanded nationally. That local anchor shapes how the brand presents itself—tied to the state's beach culture, outdoor recreation, and college social life.

Key Takeaways

• Chubbies shorts are designed to sit above the knee with a relaxed fit, marketed as a return to shorter, more casual shorts styles.
• The brand was founded in 2011 by University of South Carolina students and remains headquartered in Columbia.
• Shorts come in a wide range of colors and patterns, from solid basics to bold prints and seasonal designs.
• You can shop Chubbies online or visit their physical store in Columbia if you want to try on sizes before buying.
• The brand positions itself around beach culture, outdoor activities, and casual social wear rather than formal or athletic clothing.

The Fit and Style Philosophy

Chubbies shorts are cut specifically to sit above the knee—usually with an inseam between 5 and 7 inches depending on the style. This is a deliberate contrast to the knee-length or longer shorts that became standard in mainstream retail. The waist is relaxed rather than tapered, and the overall silhouette is meant to feel loose and unrestricted.

The brand's design language emphasizes color and pattern over minimalism. While they do offer solid-colored basics in navy, khaki, and black, much of their inventory features bold prints: tropical patterns, neon solids, gingham checks, and seasonal themes. This approach appeals to people who want their casual wear to make a visual statement rather than blend into a neutral wardrobe.

The shorts are made from a blend of materials—typically cotton and synthetic fibers—chosen for quick-drying and durability. This construction supports the brand's positioning around beach wear and outdoor activities, though the shorts are worn casually in everyday settings as well.

Where to Buy Chubbies in South Carolina

The primary retail location is the Chubbies flagship store in Columbia, located in the Five Points neighborhood. This is the original brick-and-mortar space where you can see the full range of current inventory, try on different sizes, and talk to staff about fit and style options. The store reflects the brand's casual, social atmosphere—it functions as much as a gathering space as a retail shop.

Online shopping through the Chubbies website is available to anyone in South Carolina and nationwide. The website shows all available colors and patterns, sizing information, and current promotions. Shipping times and return policies are listed on their site, and you can check current stock before placing an order.

Some regional retailers and beach shops in South Carolina may carry Chubbies, though inventory varies by location. If you want to confirm whether a specific store stocks them, contacting the store directly or checking the Chubbies website for retail partners is the most reliable approach.

Sizing and Fit Considerations

Chubbies offers sizing from XS to XXL, and the fit is consistent across the brand's core styles. Because the shorts are designed to be relaxed rather than fitted, many people find they can wear their true size without worrying about a tight waist or restrictive leg. The inseam length is standardized within each size, so if you typically wear a medium, you would order a medium rather than adjusting for length.

The brand provides a sizing chart on their website with measurements for waist and inseam, which is useful if you are ordering online and have not worn Chubbies before. Trying them on in the Columbia store is the most direct way to confirm your size, especially if you are between sizes or prefer a specific fit feel.

Because the shorts are cut to sit above the knee, the visual fit depends partly on your height and leg length. Taller wearers may find the inseam sits higher than on someone of average height, which is something to consider when ordering online.

Price Range and What to Expect

Chubbies shorts typically fall in the mid-range price category for casual wear—higher than mass-market retailers like Target or Old Navy, but lower than premium or designer brands. A single pair usually costs between $50 and $80, depending on the specific style and whether there is a current promotion running.

The brand periodically runs sales and offers discounts on older inventory or seasonal styles. Signing up for their email list through the website is one way to learn about promotions before they are announced elsewhere. The company also offers bulk discounts if you order multiple pairs at once.

For the price point, you are paying for the specific fit and design philosophy rather than luxury materials or construction. The shorts are durable enough for regular wear, but they are not positioned as investment pieces or heirloom-quality clothing.

The Brand's Connection to South Carolina Culture

Chubbies markets itself explicitly around beach culture and warm-weather outdoor life, which aligns with South Carolina's coastal identity and recreational landscape. The brand's imagery and social media often feature beach settings, outdoor gatherings, and casual social events—the kinds of activities that define warm-weather life in the state.

The company's roots at the University of South Carolina also shape its identity. College social culture, tailgating, and campus life appear regularly in the brand's marketing and product launches. This connection to student life and university traditions gives the brand a specific cultural anchor that extends beyond just being a clothing company.

By staying headquartered in Columbia rather than relocating to a larger retail hub, Chubbies has maintained that South Carolina identity as the brand grew. The flagship store in Five Points functions as a physical representation of that commitment, and the company regularly participates in local events and community activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Chubbies shorts appropriate for formal events or work settings?

No. Chubbies are designed as casual wear for beach trips, outdoor activities, and relaxed social events. They are not appropriate for professional workplaces, formal dinners, or events that call for business casual or dressier clothing. They work best in settings where casual shorts are already the norm.

Do Chubbies shorts shrink in the wash?

The brand recommends cold water washing and air drying to maintain fit and color. Following those care instructions should prevent significant shrinkage. The specific care details are included with each pair, and the website provides general washing guidance for their materials.

What is the return policy if shorts do not fit?

Return and exchange policies are listed on the Chubbies website and typically allow returns within a set window if items are unworn and in original condition. Contacting their customer service through the website is the fastest way to understand current return options and start a return if needed.

Can I find Chubbies at other clothing retailers in South Carolina?

Some regional retailers and beach-focused shops may carry Chubbies, but inventory varies. The Chubbies website lists retail partners, and calling ahead to confirm stock is more reliable than assuming a store carries them. The Columbia flagship store and online shopping are the most consistent options.

Are there different styles within the Chubbies brand, or are all shorts the same cut?

While the core fit—above the knee, relaxed waist—remains consistent, Chubbies does offer variations in inseam length and occasionally introduces new silhouettes. The main difference between styles is color and pattern rather than fundamental fit changes. Checking the website or visiting the store shows the current range of available cuts and styles.