They are elegant. They are comfortable. They are casual. They are formal. They are resilient. They are made for everybody. They are complete and they accomplish all that being just… shorts! And we wouldn’t exaggerate a bit if we stated that there is no other garment that smells as summery and free as a pair of fresh shorts
Of shorts and men!
According to Wikipedia: Shorts are a garment worn over the pelvic area, circling the waist and splitting to cover the upper part of the legs, sometimes extending down to the knees but not covering the entire length of the leg. In the beginning, they were used by young boys (mainly scouts) and we really don’t understand why, but it took some time for the shorts to become one of the undisputed staples of men’s fashion.
Maybe because of the fact that when boys reached puberty were getting their first pair of long trousers, shorts were considered not so mature. After the Second World War though, slowly but steadily, shorts found their way to all men’s wardrobes.
- In the Men’s Apparel segment, volume is expected to amount to 43.64 bn pieces by 2027. The Men’s Apparel segment is expected to show a volume growth of 1.9% in 2024. This growth is obviously linked to the shorts market size as well!
- The athleisure style is anticipated to grow globally at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% from 2023 to 2030 and shorts represent a big tranche of this particular segment
- Men usually opt for lightweight (functional) comfortable shorts. Reports suggest that the demand for denim is being replaced by the growing demand for other captivating fashion alternatives, particularly chinos and cargo pants.
- The United Nations estimate that the world’s youth population in 2019 totalled 1.2 billion. This number is projected to grow by 7.9% to 1.3 million by 2030. The youth population is going to hugely affect and positively influence the shorts segment (as the whole of the fashion industry as well)
Shorts, so many shorts!
- What type of shorts should a man wear? The shorts he needs!One of the inarguable advantages of shorts is that there exists a pair for every need. Be it leisure, athleisure or workwear, beach or mountain, track or field or even if you are looking for something different to attend a formal event, there is a pair that will keep you good, durable, subtle and refined company!
- Functional shorts
- Playa shorts
- Denim shorts
- Chino shorts
- Bermudas
- Plaid and flat front shorts
- High waist and low waist shorts
- and
- Gender neutral shorts
- With such a grand variety available… needless to search a lot in order to find the best! Just remember: what is the purpose of wearing shorts? To be comfortable and free!
10 Timeless and elegant ways to wear shorts!
1. T-shirts
High temperatures, shorts and t-shirts! A 100% winning combination. No matter the type of shirts you prefer they will easily match your new pair of shorts!
2. Shirts
If you want to give your tees some rest, opt for shirts! How to style your men’s shorts and shirts? Depending on your choice a shirt can take you smart side or casual side. Keep it open over a cotton tank and a playa pair and enjoy the sun. Wear a button up with pleated shorts and a pair of loafers and roam the night streets!
3.Hoodies
During these in-between, transition periods of the year wear a hoodie with your shorts. If you feel a bit cold in the mornings opt for a pair of high socks to match your hi-tops; Reeboks, Cons or Adidas!
4. Tank tops
Sometimes wearing the least is not optional but compulsory! Check the spring and summer men’s collections of the best brands and you will find a vast number of stylish tanks! What is missing? A cool hat!
5. Kappas, Autrys, Nikes, Vejas etc.
Sneakers have become more than an essential. There is no style and outfit that has not succumbed to the comfort and chill elegance of the sneaker. Even the most respected fashion designers don’t part ways with their favourite sneakers, why should you?
6. Parkas and Softshells
A parka, a softshell, a coach jacket, a chic bomber or a denim jacket. Shorts will never say no to a classic jacket! Just put on one and check the result. You will instantly embrace the combination!
7. Hats
We all love the sun but who wants to end like Icarus? A hat will not only draw the perfect final touch to all your shorts outfits –but most importantly– it will protect you! This year it is all about baseball caps, five panels and bobs. Fashion trends for shorts in 2023 include long lengths, tailored fits, and bold colors. But you can also wear a classic peaky blinders newsboy and nobody will dare to say that you are out of fashion! Wide short shorts are in style this year; get a pair of grey chinos, pair it with a black henley, 90s Nikes, a Palace cap and be matcha latte or classic earl grey!
Read: Celebrity Style Inspiration and Tips
8. Blazers and Vests
To Caesar what is Caesar’s and to Thom Browne what is Thom Browne’s. We have to give it to him. Thom came, sewed and redefined. He redefined not only the suit but shorts as well.
Take a pair like the one above and make it a piece of your summer suits! You can go all the way; vest, tie and everything and you will set the bar of elegance in all spring and summer formal events!
9. Crazy, happy, uplifting socks
Shorts can do almost everything, one thing they can’t do is cover your socks. But this is not a bad thing, it is just one more excuse to get crazy creative with your socks. But even if you prefer to keep it sober, a pair of white or black socks will keep it cool and elegant!
10. Accessories
Golden chains, rings, sunglasses, bandanas, earrings, a chinese sun umbrella or a japanese fan…get accessories, get creative, get to be you! Wardrobe accessories for shorts include belts, scarves, and hats, which can add style and personality to your outfit.
Why use sustainable shorts
To insist on the negatives is painful and oftentimes unproductive and thus, we’d better keep it short and tight. The planet is not in its best shape. Sustainable fashion for men’s shorts means choosing shorts made from eco-friendly materials and produced ethically. The hazardous and dangerous phenomena are multiplying. Today, there is just one choice to make; to be ethical and responsible.
Buying wisely will make a difference and there is no better way to do it than opting for brands that are eco-responsible like Finisterre, Pangaia or by supporting your local thrift store, obtaining good quality second hand vintage pieces.
Being sustainable is easy. Dressing creatively is easy. Transforming and reshaping is easy. The one and only element that separates us from the promised land is will!
Author’s Bio:
Joan Calabia operates as the Digital Lead for Dockers® International at Levi Strauss & Co. Joan’s experience spans the intricacies of marketing operations to creating immersive consumer experiences.
