Frat boy shorts, also referred to as “preppy shorts” or “festival shorts”, are a type of shorts characterized by their short length and brightly colored, patterned fabric. They are part of the ever-popular prep-style of casual clothing popularized by “frats,” or members of Greek letter organizations at many North American universities.
Origins of Frat Boy Shorts
The beginnings of frat boy shorts can be traced back to the days of preppy-inspired high schools and universities in the 1950s, when bright and bold colors were considered stylish. During this time, faculty members often wore brightly-colored shorts in order to stay cool in the warmer weather and to make a statement. As the style grew in popularity, the trend slowly trickled into other walks of life, eventually leading to the origins of frat boy shorts.
Today, frat boy shorts are a popular fashion choice among college students and young adults. They are often seen paired with a t-shirt or tank top, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Frat boy shorts are also a great way to show off your school spirit, as they come in a variety of colors and styles that represent different universities and organizations.
Popular Styles of Frat Boy Shorts
Frat boy shorts come in a variety of styles, but the most popular tend to be colorful and patterned. This can include checkered, floral, or even striped prints. Generally speaking, these shorts are designed to be very short in length and fit above the knee. The cut is loose and boxy, while some feature drawstring waists for extra comfort. Frat boy shorts are commonly worn with tees or polos, loafers, and boat shoes.
How to Wear Frat Boy Shorts
Frat boy shorts are all about embracing your personal style. If you’re feeling bold, try wearing them in a bright color with a patterned shirt or cardigan. You can finish the look off with your favorite boat shoes or sneakers. For a more casual look, opt for plainer shorts and pair them with solid color shirt or tank top for a summer-ready outfit. No matter how you choose to wear them, frat boy shorts are always a statement.
Where to Buy Frat Boy Shorts
If you’re looking to buy frat boy shorts, there are plenty of options available online. Retailers like Topman, ASOS, and Urban Outfitters offer great selections of colorful and patterned shorts that fit into this trend. You can also check out local vintage stores or thrift shops to find some truly unique styles.
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Frat Boy Shorts in Pop Culture
Over the years, frat boy shorts have become a style staple for many in popular culture. Some celebrity fans of this trend include Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ronson, and even the Duchess of Cambridge. They have also been spotted on numerous runway shows throughout the fashion world, making it clear that these preppy shorts have become a timeless classic.
The Pros and Cons of Wearing Frat Boy Shorts
Like many fashion pieces, there are pros and cons to wearing frat boy shorts. One of the biggest pros is that these types of shorts can be very comfortable to wear in the summer months. Additionally, they are highly versatile, as they can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Although these are great benefits, it is important to note that frat boy shorts can be hard to match with anything too casual. Also, since they tend to be very short in length, they may not be right for more conservative settings.
Tips for Caring for Frat Boy Shorts
Taking care of your frat boy shorts is super important if you want them to last. To ensure that your shorts stay looking fresh and vibrant, follow these tips: opt for cold or warm water and use a gentle cycle when washing; ensure that all buttons and zippers are securely fastened before washing; air-dry them on a clothesline and never tumble dry; avoid using heat or bleach on colored fabrics; and whenin doubt, stick to the care label.
Different Ways to Style Frat Boy Shorts
From a chilled-out T-shirt look to something more bold and vibrant, there are so many ways to wear frat boy shorts. To nail a cool and casual style, try pairing solid-colored shorts with a striped or checkered shirt. Alternatively, you can go for something a bit more daring and rock a printed pair of shorts with an opaque sweater or hoodie for extra coverage. When it comes to footwear, loafers and boat shoes are always the way to go.
Trends in Frat Boy Short Styles
The trends in frat boy short styles show no signs of slowing down. For summer 2020, expect to see plenty of vibrant colors and prints, making it easy to stand out from the crowd. Other trends emerging this season include bright pastel shades paired with bold patterned shirts as well as higher-cut shorts with cuffed hems. With so many options available right now, you won’t have any difficulty finding frat boy shorts that fit your personal style.
