In terms of men’s fashion, there’s one question that has divided opinion for years; should men’s shorts be below the knee? From casual occasions to smart-casual, there are a lot of factors to consider when deciding which length of shorts is right for you, leading to the debate of whether below the knee is the way to go.
Pros and Cons of Shorts Below the Knee
Before deciding if men’s shorts should be below the knee, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of this particular style of shorts. The most obvious benefit to wearing shorts that are below the knee is that they offer a more formal, smart look compared to knee-length or mid-thigh shorts. They can also be more modest due to their length, meaning they can be worn in a variety of circumstances without causing offense. The downside, however, is that below-the-knee shorts typically don’t offer much in the way of flexibility. Depending on the material, such shorts can restrict movement, potentially leading to discomfort.
History of Men’s Shorts Length
Shorts have long been a staple in men’s fashion, with knee-length and longer becoming increasingly popular in the 20th century. During this time, most styles of men’s shorts were considered to be below the knee, with the Victorian era seeing even longer shorts around the mid-calf length. In recent years, however, shorter styles such as knee-length and above have become increasingly fashionable, causing the debate of whether men’s shorts should be below the knee.
Impact of Social Media on Men’s Shorts Length
Social media has had a huge impact on men’s fashion in recent years, leading to a flood of new trends, including shorter styles of shorts. The influence of social media in fashion can be seen in a variety of ways, from younger generations looking to influencers for style advice and inspiration, to brands using it as a platform for marketing their new styles. Inevitably, this has caused the debate surrounding men’s shorts length.
Men’s Shorts Trends Around the World
Men’s shorts trends are constantly changing around the world due to the influence of social media and other global trends. Generally speaking, below-the-knee styles tend to be more popular in more conservative countries and those with more traditional values. On the other hand, shorter styles such as knee-length and above are widely accepted across most countries with progressive fashion trends.
How to Wear Men’s Shorts Below the Knee
The best way to wear men’s shorts below the knee is to choose a pair that are slim-fitting and made from lightweight material such as cotton. You can also opt for a slightly cropped style for a more modern and fashionable look. As for footwear, wearing trainers or sandals are great options for warmer weather and loafers or brogues work well for colder months.
How to Style Men’s Shorts Below the Knee
When it comes to styling men’s shorts below the knee, there are a few key points to consider. First and foremost, try to pair your shorts with structured shirts or t-shirts that finish close to the waist and add plenty of layers in colder months. For added style, you can wear dressy socks rolled above your ankles or cuff your shorts at the hem. Lastly, choose your accessories carefully; wear sunglasses during summer months, or a watch and bracelet in cooler winter months.
Fashion Tips for Men Wearing Shorts Below the Knee
As with any trend, it’s important to select pieces that are appropriate for any given occasion. Avoid extreme styling when wearing men’s shorts below the knee and instead opt for smarter options such as chinos or tailored trousers which can be worn across a variety of occasions. When selecting accessories such as watches, aim for classy metal pieces rather than those with bold designs.
Popular Styles of Men’s Shorts Below the Knee
When it comes to below-the-knee shorts for men, there are a few popular styles to consider. Chino-style shorts are always a classic; they offer a smart-casual look that works well in both summer and winter months. Tailored trousers meanwhile offer a dressier look that can be worn during business meetings or formal occasions. Cargo shorts can also work well in more laidback settings.
Shopping for Stylish Men’s Shorts Below the Knee
Since below-the-knee shorts have seen a surge in trend over recent years, it’s now much easier to find stylish options on the market. Visiting your local high street stores is usually a good place to start when looking for new styles. There are also plenty of online stores offering exciting reductions and variety when shopping through them.
Advice from Style Experts on Wearing Men’s Shorts Below the Knee
Style experts advise that when selecting men’s shorts below the knee, always look for pieces that will work with your current wardrobe. If you struggle when putting together outfits, there are plenty of online tutorials available that provide tips on how to dress in a stylish way when wearing shorts this length. It may also be worth using a personal shopper who can offer advice on what looks will work for you.
Benefits of Wearing Men’s Shorts Below the Knee
Aside from their fashionable appeal, there are many practical benefits to wearing men’s shorts below the knee. Not only do they provide more coverage than shorter styles, but they also tend to be more comfortable due to having less fabric weighing them down. Plus, since they are longer than regular shorts, they hide any imperfections such as leg hair or cellulite, giving you more confidence when showing off your legs in public.
Whether you decide men’s shorts should be below the knee or not is up to you. Consider your personal style when making this decision and remember that you can always mix up your wardrobe with other lengths of footwareshould you feel like trying something new.
