When it comes to wardrobe choices, what’s appropriate—and even more, acceptable—for men to wear shorts can vary widely depending on the situation. There are instances and occasions where shorts are perfectly fine to don, while there are other occasions where they are typically not acceptable, or less desirable. Deciding when and where shorts should be worn, and what type of shorts would be most suitable, is an important factor to consider when constructing any man’s wardrobe.

When it’s Appropriate to Wear Shorts

Generally speaking, wearing shorts is more acceptable in casual and recreational settings, including days spent aboard a boat or at a beach or lake. This is typically true for sundry occasions like lounging with family and friends as well, including poolside barbeques or park picnics. This is why it’s often said that shorts are considered a summer staple—they’re usually the go-to choice for everyday activities in mild weather conditions.

Activity-specific settings are also excellent opportunities for men to don shorts. These can range from outdoor physical activities like running or biking, or any other activity that might call for more articulated and/or lightweight rigidness. On the other hand, there are also occasions that are inappropriate for shorts—like business meetings, solemn events, funerals, and job interviews.

Types of Shorts for Men

When determining what type of shorts to wear—and when—it’s important to consider which specific style of shorts would most suit the occasion. There are several different varieties of men’s shorts out there, some of the more popular styles include board shorts, athletic shorts, cargo shorts, and chino shorts.

Board shorts are designed with water activities in mind—think surfers or lifeguards—and can be composed of lightweight materials that dry quickly and provide optimum comfort. Athletic shorts usually bear a baseball-style silhouette and are usually formed from performance materials that are both breathable and durable—so they’re perfect for those whose activewear needs require another level. Cargo shorts are often the go-to choice for off-road activities like camping or hiking—with added features like cargo pockets providing room for phone and keys.

Chino shorts, on the other hand, offer a more formal alternative that’s suitable for everyday wear. These have a dressier look and feel to them, so they are ideal for more casual occasions such as brunch or a day out shopping.

Choosing the Right Fit and Length

After you settle on a specific type of shorts, the next consideration should be the fit and length of them. Here, there’s no one “right” answer as each man has his own distinct body type and style preferences. It’s best to try on a few different styles to find what looks best on your frame.

Lengthwise, you should aim for something in the mid- to lower-thigh range—any longer and it can tend to look a bit dated. The waistline should rest comfortably at your natural waistline (on your stomach) and the image should remain slim, but not overly tight. Classic colors like navy or khaki never steer wrong here, or you can try something bold like a patterned floral or vintage plaid if you’re feeling daring.

Benefits of Wearing Shorts

The primary benefit of wearing shorts is comfort. Because they’re typically lighter and looser than trousers or jeans, they allow for easier movement and enable breathability—particularly when fabricated with breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. This ease of movement makes them an excellent choice for when you need some extra room in your day-to-day wardrobe—whether it be chasing around pets or kids, or working outside in the yard.

Additionally, they’re an excellent option if you’re looking to minimize the weight of items in your suitcase on vacations or business trips. Their lighter footprint makes them a great packing option because they take up less space, allowing you to fit more items into your luggage.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Wearing Shorts

There are several common pitfalls to avoid when wearing shorts: displaying too much skin being one of them. While we don’t advise conforming completely to conservative standards, too much skin can make you appear as though you don’t take the occasion seriously, so always be mindful of length when it comes to shorts.

Another is wearing baggy or overly long shorts. Not only do these tend to look sloppy and unkempt, but they also hide your body shape and give off the impression that you don’t care about fashion. It’s always best to go for shorts that fit you properly with hemlines that reach midway down your thigh.

Dressing Up with Shorts

Shorts don’t have to be synonymous with casual style. You can easily incorporate them into a more sophisticated look by styling them with elevated pieces such as dress shirts or blazers. Just remember: the trick is to focus on fit more than anything else. Slimmer fits and shorter length will provide an air of refinement while still ensuring comfort.

Tips for Styling with Shorts

One way to look crisp when dressing up with shorts is to pair them with a dress shirt (or dress polo) tucked in. The contrast in fabrics adds a sense of interest while also emphasizing the tailored shape of the shorts. You can also go full-on formal by matching them with blazers and dress shoes like boat shoes or leather loafers.

Accessorizing to Elevate Your Look with Shorts

When accessorizing with shorts, always remember the focus should remain on fit first and foremost. Stick to basics that are both simple and smart like ties (for dressier occasions) or wrist-worn accessories like watch straps or slim bracelets.

Popular Trends in Men’s Shorts

Today’s style trends emphasize shorter lengths for men’s shorts—usually in the mid-thigh range. Sleek fabrics like wool-blends have grown in popularity as well, which make them suitable for dressier moments inside and out. Color-wise, opting for a neutral monochromatic palette works great—otherwise there are plenty of brighter colors such as citrus hues that often go underrated.

At the end of the day, choosing when to don shorts comes down largely to personal preference and the occasion itself. By familiarizing yourself with what types of shorts would best suit various scenarios and selecting ones that are tailored to fit your personal style, you can ensure your summer wardrobe consists of stylish garments that feel as comfortable as they look.