Short pants, abbreviated to shorts, have been integral to men’s wardrobes for decades—and often looked upon with dismay by the older generations. It’s now accepted that men have the option of wearing shorts without fear of judgment. But what do you call them?
History of Short Shorts
Short pants have been a recurring trend in fashion since the 1930s when they were worn by college students in the U.S. They were typically made of denim and had a ‘cuffed’ or rolled waistline. In the late 1950s and early 1960s they gained popularity as a style statement and were seen in various magazines and adverts. At the same time, they were also seen as part of leisure outfits, sometimes referred to as ‘gym shorts’, perhaps due to the fact that they were perceived to be comfortable whilst engaging in physical activities.
In the 1970s their popularity started to decline, largely due to the emergence of more hip-length shorts that were also deemed to be more fashionable. But this trend eventually changed when Adidas reintroduced shorts to the high street in the early 2000s. This period in fashion history is thought to be when men’s shorts became fashionable again, especially for those at the forefront of style.
Popular Styles of Short Shorts
Nowadays there are many different styles of short shorts available, from athletic shorts and biker shorts to denim and chino shorts. They come in different styles like Bermuda shorts, which are cinched or gathered and usually fall just above the knee. There are also walking shorts, which are also usually knee-length and garish, which come in bold prints and colours.
Cargo shorts are also popular, with pockets on the side and often embroidered artwork. Board shorts, which are a bit longer than shorts in length, and cargo board shorts, which are also higher up the leg, are perfect for water-based activities. Drawstring shorts are also a popular choice due to their relaxed fit and comfort.
Pros and Cons of Wearing Short Shorts
Just like any other clothing item, there are both pros and cons to wearing short shorts. On the plus side, they are incredibly comfortable, allowing plenty of room for movement. They are also incredibly light-weight and fashionable – meaning you can stay cool and look great during hot summer days.
On the flip side, however, short shorts can be slightly revealing at times, making it harder to maintain modesty. This can be overcome with the right clothing choices, however, such as wearing a longer shirt or layered tops.
How to Choose the Right Pair of Short Shorts
When choosing a pair of short shorts it’s important to consider the colour, fit and length. If you’re looking for something that’s fashionable then a brighter colour or patterned pair of shorts could be a good choice. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more sophisticated look then a navy blue or grey pair could be ideal.
The fit is also important – if you’re looking for something looser for more comfort then opt for a looser fit pair. However, if you’re looking for something sharper then look for something tailored with a drawstringor belt.
The length is also integral – make sure the shorts finish just above or at the knee. Anything below this can be seen as too revealing.
Tips for Styling Short Shorts
When styling short shorts, it’s important to get the right balance between smart and casual. To achieve this, you can team them with a fitted shirt, preferably in a pastel shade like mint or baby blue.
Alternatively, you can opt for a more casual look by pairing them with a colourful t-shirt or tank top. This is especially popular during the summer period when temperatures are high.
When completing the outfit, why not opt for loafers or trainers? Loafers will provide a smart finish whilst trainers will provide a more casual look – both of which will complement the shorts.
Where to Buy Men’s Short Shorts
Men’s short shorts can be found in many retail stores both on and offline. Popular stores such as UNIQLO, ASOS and Topman all offer extensive collections of short shorts that won’t break the bank.
Popular Brands of Men’s Short Shorts
There are lots of reputable brands who specialize in men’s short shorts. These include Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Old Navy, H&M and Urban Outfitters. Each brand has its own distinct design and style – so it’s important to shop around to find something that suits your particular taste.
Best Practices for Wearing Short Shorts
When wearing short shorts there are some important things to bear in mind. Firstly, be mindful of your surroundings – such as the dress code at workplaces or restaurants. If wearing concretely to such environments it could be wise to opt for a slightly longer length pair.
It’s also important to keep your shorts neat and tidy – this means ensuring each leg is of equal length and that there are no rips or tears. This will guarantee that you look fashionable without being too provocative.
