With summer quickly approaching, you will likely encounter many casual situations where shorts make sense. In these cases, it feels good to ditch those heavy pants for something more comfortable and breathable. Men’s shorts are an essential part of any summer wardrobe, and knowing how to style them can take your summer fashion to the next level.
In this article, we’ll go over some tips on how to style men’s shorts for the perfect summer look.
Choose the right length
Choosing the right length for your shorts makes a huge difference between looking great or looking sloppy. A general rule of thumb is that the shorts should hit just above the knee, but this can vary depending on your body type and personal preference. You should never go below the knee, however, as this looks sloppy and defeats the purpose of shorts.
If you’re on the shorter side, opt for shorter shorts to elongate your legs. A 7 inch inseam will work for most. If you’re taller, longer shorts, around a 9 inch inseam, can balance out your proportions. However, avoid going too short or too long, as it can look awkward. Test out different lengths to see what works best.
If you have more muscular legs, you may want to opt for something a little shorter to accentuate this feature. Conversely, those with skinny legs may want to lean for shorts on the longer side.
Consider the fit
When it comes to fit, shorts should be comfortable but not too loose. Baggy shorts can make you look sloppy, while shorts that are too tight can be uncomfortable and unflattering.
Look for shorts that fit well around the waist and hips and have a slim but not too tight fit through the thighs. They should skim your legs but not constrict them. This will give you a clean and streamlined look, which flatters every body type. Skinny guys won’t look lost in their shorts, bigger guys will look slimmer, and muscular guys will be able to show off a little.
Choose the right fabric
The fabric of your shorts can make a big difference in how they look and feel. For a classic look, go for cotton or chino shorts. These fabrics are breathable, comfortable, and versatile. Linen or linen/cotton blends are even more breathable and will serve you better in especially hot weather.
For a more modern look, try shorts made from lightweight and quick-drying materials like nylon or polyester. Many brands make dressier looking shorts out of performance materials, which give you a clean look with the comfort of wearing athletic shorts.
Avoid heavy fabrics like denim, as they can be uncomfortable in hot weather and make you look too casual.
Experiment with colors
While you should own some shorts in the basic neutral colors, such as beige/khaki, grey, and navy, this piece provides the ideal opportunity to add a splash of color to your summer attire. Since situations where you can wear shorts tend to lean more casual, you can get away with it more easily.
Feel free to experiment with some bolder colors. White or off-white can stand out in a subtle yet seasonally appropriate way. Red, powder blue, yellow, olive, and really any other bright color can work, as long as you match it with everything else in your outfit. Whenever you do add a bold color, whether it’s with shorts or another piece, make sure to keep everything else neutral and toned down. This allows the bold piece to stand out while keeping your outfit from veering into clownish territory.
For a more thorough primer on dressing with color, start here.
Pair with the right shoes
The right shoes can make or break your summer look. Sneakers are a classic option that can work with almost any type of shorts. Plain white sneakers will serve as your most versatile option, but but colored sneakers can add a splash of color, boldness, and fun to your look. Boat shoes or loafers can give your outfit a dressier, more sophisticated look.
Sandals are also an option, but they can be tricky to pull off and in our opinion should only be worn near or on the water. If you do opt for sandals, avoid bulky or sporty sandals and go for a more minimalist style.
Mix and match with different styles
Pairing other clothing items with shorts is pretty simple. Shorts can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For a casual look, pair your shorts with a t-shirt or polo shirt and sneakers. When the temperatures drop in the evening, you can throw on a lightweight cotton sweater or clean sweatshirt to keep the chill off your back.
For a dressier look, you can pair shorts with a button down. A long sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled up will work if your style leans more preppy, but this look is not for everyone. A well-fitting short sleeve button down can dress up your shorts just a tad without going over the top. Make sure your shorts are tailored and not too casual. You can also experiment with patterns and colors to add some interest to your outfit.
Don’t forget the accessories
Accessories can add the finishing touch to your summer outfit. Sunglasses are a must-have for protecting your eyes and adding some style. A watch can also add some sophistication to your look.
Avoid bulky accessories like backpacks or fanny packs, as they can be distracting and take away from your outfit.
Conclusion
Men’s shorts are a summer essential that can be both comfortable and stylish. Follow these tips to choose the right length and fit, choose the right fabric, pair with the right shoes, mix and match with different styles, and don’t forget the accessories. With these tips, you’ll know how to style men’s shorts like an expert
