I bought the shorter ones because I liked the longer ones.  They are so comfortable for working outside are hanging around house doing errands etc.  They have both  elastic and front ties.  I also liked is that they have pockets and if your like me and have 2 floors the pockets come in handy,  I love that because it saves me a lot of work.  They wash and dry beautifully and they don't shrink.  I am 5'3  150 lbs, I bought a large because I don't like things tight. These shorts are versatile you can wear them for errands etc.  They fit perfectly and are very comfortable. I recommend them heartily.