Sweats
A pair of summer sweats are purely for comfort, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look great too. When you want something to be both comforting and appropriate for the weather, a stretchy and relaxed short is what you need.
You might decide to buy a pair of these with the ambitious goal of exercising, but we both know not much of that will be going on. These sweats are for those mornings after a few too many, or those nights eating bad takeout because it’s too hot to cook.
Jersey is a popular fabric for sweats, and with good reason too. It’s a cotton fabric with natural elasticity and is divinely soft to the touch. You might also like to wear more advanced fabrics, such as ones with four-way stretch and moisture-wicking technology.
These summer sweats also come in a range of lengths. Give your legs the air they deserve by donning a pair of shorts with the iconic 5-inch inseam or channel your inner basketballer with something much longer. Regardless, if there’s one thing you can ensure across the board, it’s comfort.
Beach
If you won’t be found far from a body of water this summer, you’ll need a decent pair of shorts to wear, not least so you can easily transition from beach to bar with the mere addition of a shirt.
You want a pair of beach shorts that are, first and foremost, practical and versatile. When you’re only wearing one item of clothing, you want it to be strong enough to carry your style. Think about contemporary colours, traditional patterns and subtle design features to elevate your look.
Picture this: you’ve been down at the beach all day with your friends and you’re ready to hit up your favourite beer garden. You’re wearing the perfect beach shorts – lightweight so they’ll dry in the time it takes you to get out of the surf and off the sand. All you need to pair these stylish shorts with is a linen shirt and some chic sandals and you’ll be a welcome guest in any bar.
Every time you head to the beach, you’ll feel like you’re embodying your style, not sacrificing it just for a swim.
Stussy Nylon Big Beach Short in Butter Yellow, was $69.95 now $40, Glue Store
Denim
Denim shorts are a staple for the relaxed dresser. The sturdy fabric is known for being hard-wearing, but it has come a long way since being solely utilised for uniforms.
From being used for interior trimmings in American Motors cars to being the star of that iconic Britney Spears x Justin Timberlake look from 2001, denim has certainly had its day. In 2021, we think it’s time for denim to be appreciated for its subtlety and endurance.
While rips in denim shorts seem to be a mainstay, it’s worth investing in a pair without any distressed features. Picture them with a bright t-shirt and clean white socks and sneakers; a perfectly simple and versatile outfit.
You can even enjoy the benefits of denim without the constraints of a typical stiff denim silhouette. Think about denim drawstring shorts or even a change in length.
A pair of denim shorts are the perfect staple piece to wear every day without even thinking about it. They’re too innocuous to ever be out of style, they’re durable, and they’re quite comfortable too.
Rollas Lazy Boy Denim Shorts Original Stone Blue, $119.95, General Pants
Smart Casual
A pair of smart casual shorts are your best friend come summer events. You’ll look effortlessly carefree in a pair of suave shorts, even if you pair them with a simple t-shirt and pair of sandals.
These kinds of shorts will take you from impromptu catchups to backyard barbeque parties, all while feeling perfectly dressed. With a vast range of cuts and colours, you will find a smart-casual pair of shorts to suit your style.
As the level of formality increases, so does the daring nature of the designs. We see increased rises, bolder colours, and pleats aplenty. While drawstrings are common with these kinds of shorts, it’s important to focus on the fabric. The drawstring may say casual, but the linen or pressed poplin says smart.
If you feel like trying something new, a high-waisted pair of shorts might be just right. Pair with a plain t-shirt, tucked in, and with all the confidence of Sean Connery’s 007. Otherwise, roll up your sleeves in a long-sleeve linen shirt and wear with a pair of pleated cotton shorts. Match with a pair of clean sneakers or a smart sandal and you’ll be set for any occasion.
Work
A pair of smart casual shorts are your best friend come summer events. You’ll look effortlessly carefree in a pair of suave shorts, even if you pair them with a simple t-shirt and pair of sandals.
These kinds of shorts will take you from impromptu catchups to backyard barbeque parties, all while feeling perfectly dressed. With a vast range of cuts and colours, you will find a smart-casual pair of shorts to suit your style.
As the level of formality increases, so does the daring nature of the designs. We see increased rises, bolder colours, and pleats aplenty. While drawstrings are common with these kinds of shorts, it’s important to focus on the fabric. The drawstring may say casual, but the linen or pressed poplin says smart.
If you feel like trying something new, a high-waisted pair of shorts might be just right. Pair with a plain t-shirt, tucked in, and with all the confidence of Sean Connery’s 007. Otherwise, roll up your sleeves in a long-sleeve linen shirt and wear with a pair of pleated cotton shorts. Match with a pair of clean sneakers or a smart sandal and you’ll be set for any occasion.
Thom Browne Black & White Wool Prince Of Wales 4-Bar Shorts, was $1,735 now $884, SSENSE