The ultimate guide to wearing shorts
Daring to bare? Here are the five rules to follow when it comes to wearing shorts this summer
The topic of shorts is one of the most debated in men’s fashion. When should they be worn, and by whom? Are short trends worth dipping into or should we just be sticking to the classics? And what about shape – how do we know which ones work best? We’re here to answer all of this and more…
Consider your build
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to shorts – literally. Remember: if something suits someone of a completely different build, it’s unlikely that it will suit you, too. So think about your body shape. If you have shorter legs, pick shorter shorts. If you’re bulkier, opt for a roomier pair for more comfort. And if your legs have yet to see the sun this year, avoid pale colours, like white, cream and beige. It’s not rocket science, but it should be top of your list.
Think about the occasion
Unless you’re a tennis coach, PE teacher or happen to work in an especially casual environment, it’s probably best to avoid wearing shorts at work. While fashion rules have become a lot looser in recent years, remember that it’s always best to be overdressed rather than under. If you’re on the beach, hanging out at the weekend or on holiday, wear shorts to your heart’s content. But for the office, or any smart occasions, best avoid them altogether.
Ignore the trends
Trends do exist for shorts but in our mind, it’s best to ignore them. The classics remain as such for a reason. Pick up simple denim pieces in classic blue or darker tones, or stick to timeless chino shorts in any and every colour. The beauty of both of these styles is that they can be dressed up or down depending on your mood and the occasion.
Fabric matters
The fabric you choose is just as important as the colour, pattern and fit of your shorts. Your best bet for summer is something lightweight and while linen looks great, it has the ability to crumple in an instant. If you prefer a sleeker look, think about something slightly heavier like a light denim or cotton version.
What to wear them with
What you wear your shorts with will depend on the shape, fabric and style that you choose, but it’s best to err on the side of caution. Stick to the basics: a polo shirt, a crisp white tee, a short sleeve shirt or a sweater up top, a chore or denim jacket that you can throw on at the last minute and sturdy sandals or a failsafe trainer to round the whole look off. To make things easier, we’ve picked out a couple of our favourite outfit combinations below.
