Per request I’m doing another post on Men’s fashion and since it’s just about summer I thought shorts was the perfect topic. Surprisingly men have a lot of options when it comes to purchasing shorts there even different options for mens gym shorts. There’s length, fabric, pattern, color, pocket style, and flat vs. pleated. For the most part you can’t go wrong and obviously it’s a lot about personal style but I’ve outlined some of the guidelines and definite don’ts when it comes to choosing your shorts guys. So let’s talk mens shorts, shall we…
First let’s start with the length of your shorts and what is appropriate. I’ve used J.Crew’s shorts as the example as they have a good variety and you can see what each length looks like on the same person. Somewhere between 5 – 10.5 inches is the best length. Again it’s going to be a lot about personal style/comfort and your height. I personally think the 7 or 9 inch looks the best minus those few guys that can really pull off the shorter 5 inch shorts. They also give off a very prepster image.
Lots of options when it comes to color, pattern, and fabric! You 100% need a good pair of khaki and navy shorts. If you don’t purchase any others these two will carry you through. Other classics include hunter green, a lighter khaki, and gray. To spice it up a bit red, salmon, royal blue, mint, pink, or orange. The typical go to fabric for men’s shorts that allow to wear them for both causal and more dressed up occasions is chino which can be seen and purchased at most stores like J.Crew, Banana Republic, Polo, Gap, Nordstrom, etc… These shorts can be paired with t-shirts, polos, or oxfords depending on the occasion and event you are wearing them to. Even dressed up with an oxford, blazer, and penny loafers for a semi-dressy summer occasion where shorts would still be appropriate. Linen is also a great choice for summer as it’s very breathable and light, perfect for those excruciatingly hot days. Seersucker is also great for this reason and it allows you to add a little pattern without being too “loud”. Linen and seersucker shorts can also be paired with a simple t-shirt, classic polo whether a neutral or bright color, or an oxford. Plaid is always a good choice as well when choosing a patterned short…just be sure you are wearing a pretty simple shirt! Another huge trend is embroidered shorts with anchors, crabs, lobsters, palm trees, and the list goes on and on. Again with these make sure you’re pairing them with a super simple shirt. These shorts are to be saved for more casual events.
Warning you big time when I say avoid these five style of shorts! Camo is to be reserved for hunting and outdoorsy activities. Short shorts where people are questioning whether or not you borrowed your girlfriend’s shorts are a huge no-no unless you’re in Europe than they’re somewhat acceptable. Extremely long shorts are also a huge no as people will be wondering if you borrowed your mom’s capris. This means your shorts do need to go above your knees, not hit them or go below the knee cap. Cargo shorts are to be worn by cute little 5 year old to middle school boys after that only for those whose work requires them to have a million pockets. Which leaves us with the jorts. Since I live in the South I can’t say these can never be worn but they are to be saved for two occasions, country concerts and NASCAR races. They are not to be worn seriously but for fun and games!
Khaki Chinos | Navy Chinos | Swim Trunks | Gym | Seersucker
If you’re only going for the bare minimum simple khaki and navy chinos are a must, a pair of swim trunks for the days at the beach or pool, gym for shorts for working out and lounging around, and a pair of pattern shorts. Since seersucker is my favorite and the most muted of the patterns I went with that one but you could always choose another pattern like the ones listed above.
