I did it. I've found the Holy Grail of summer fashion -- the perfect pair of shorts. My quest ended on Monday at New York & Co. in the Millcreek Mall where they had their "Riverside Park Short" on display in the front of the store. They were on sale for $16.50 and came in six colors -- tan, stone, blue-jean, white, olive and black.

I tried them on and rushed back to grab three pairs in stone, tan and black. I really wanted the blue-jean color, but they didn't have my size.

And, speaking of size, ladies, you'll be happy and flattered to know that most of New York and Co. sizes run small. That's right...you size 8s can probably wear a 6, 12's you'll probably be a 10 at New York & Co. Gotta love that, sister.

Anyway...back to the shorts.

They're flat fronted, pocket-less, pleat-less and really flattering. They sit on your hips (they don't fit at the waist), but they're NOT the low-rise, butt-crack-baring hip-huggers every cool teenager is spilling out of. (They are shorts, though -- they fall about mid-thigh. So, if you prefer a longer short, you may not like them).

These are the perfect shorts for grown-up fashion-conscious women who just want to be comfortable, cool and stylish. And, at $16.50, you can afford to buy a few pairs.