Shorts once relegated to weekend warriors and balmy beach days are no longer relegated solely to the domain of the casual. In recent times, the appropriate and fashionable use of shorts in the workplace has seen a major resurgence as a go-to wardrobe staple for professionals. From high-end to casual, numerous styles now exist for looking sharp and professional in shorts.
Benefits of Wearing Shorts to Work
The right kind of shorts can provide an unexpectedly high degree of work-friendly comfort due to their lightweight, airy fabric and flexibility of movement. Working in shorts may help to improve endurance levels in labor-intensive jobs and has the added benefit of protection from unforeseen accidents. Overall these choices avoid extremely tight-fitting clothes that can cause undue stress and even hinder certain motor functions.
In addition, wearing shorts to work can help to keep you cool in hot weather, as the fabric is breathable and allows air to circulate. This can help to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses. Furthermore, shorts are often more affordable than other types of workwear, making them a great choice for those on a budget.
Types of Professional Shorts
To pull off a professional look, there are several options. Classic tailored shorts in fabrics like wool, linen, or cotton are excellent choices for creating a strong presence and can be matched with equally dapper shirts, blazers, or belts. The key for having a polished look with tailored shorts is keeping them pressed and clean at all times. For a more casual vibe, try sporting chino-style shorts that go with looser bottom-up collared shirts or knitted polos. These shorts come in various cuts and colors.
What to Wear with Professional Shorts
Shoes should also be chosen carefully when deciding on what to wear with professional shorts. Choose a pair with a clean, conservative look like loafers or leather sandals. Upon pairing them with a nice pair of socks and navy or taupe shorts, the overall look is perfect for semi-formal to casual occasions. For a more formal look, opt for dressier shoes such as leather monks or oxfords. A smart belt and pocket squares can never go wrong.
Tips for Pulling Off the Look
For any occasion, always remember to keep it classy and stick to neutrals like blacks, blues, whites, and grey. Design-wise, go simple–either no pleats or single pleats and waistbands not wider than one inch. For sharper effects, belt up the waistband and tuck in the shirt with a square hem or slim fit. Although darker hues are good for formal or conservative looks, feel free to add a pop of color for the more adventurous.
How to Choose the Right Length
When selecting the right length for a pair of professional shorts, it’s important to remember the general guideline that they should fall no higher than three inches above the knee cap. Any higher will make the outfit appear untailored and sloppy. Additionally, always keep the overall balance in mind, as shorts that are too long can appear to stretched out and baggy. Make sure the shorts fit snug and don’t overwhelm the other pieces in the outfit.
Dos and Don’ts for Wearing Shorts Professionally
For general do’s, add on simple accessories that don’t detract from the overall look. Clean white socks pick up on colors from our shirt and shoes; sunglasses can bring out the colors from an outfit; and watch straps add a touch of sophistication. As for don’ts, never wear cargo shorts to a professional setting. These draw attention away from the overall image you want to project and make it difficult to appear polished and neat.
Popular Shorts Brands for the Office
The essential ingredients of successful professional shorts are quality fabrics, perfect fits, and timeless designs. Luckily this isn’t hard to find in 2021. Many popular brands make shorts perfect for boardrooms and ballgames, such as Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, J Crew, Banana Republic, Topman, ASOS, Brooks Brothers and Liberty London. Keep it traditional with muted colors and subtle patterns for a timeless aesthetic that never fails.
How to Accessorize Professional Shorts Outfits
Accessories are easy yet key additions to any business-casual look. Scarves, watches, hats, backpacks and sunglasses can all add to an outfit without crossing the formal line. Alternatively brighten up already existing items with colorful ties, suspenders, or pocket squares – or even custom embroidery in your coat or hat to draw attention. Choosing the right accessories for your professional shorts look is not only about fashion but largely about projecting confidence.
The Role of Color in Professional Shorts Attire
Color is one of the most powerful tools when putting together this look. The more adventurous might wish to choose an array of colors but do so keeping in mind the goal of putting together a refined but bold look. If matching accent hues try switching between lighter and darker tones of similar shades across the outfit: green-blue trousers with brown leather loafers or navy shorts with beige sandals works wonders. As always when it comes to color – go with what you love!
