Shorts are one of the hardest garments to wear well. Even as a stylist, I’m sometimes left in a state of clothes fog when I’m going for a legs-out ‘fit – mainly when the dress code is on the formal side. But, over the years, I’ve learnt some easy-to-follow rules which help to beat the bare-legs anxiety when the mercury’s on the rise.
First of all, you should cater for your body shape. For instance, if you’re someone who never misses leg day, avoid slim shorts which could end up looking a little Starsky & Hutch. Instead, perhaps try a pair of wide-leg Bermuda shorts. Or, if you’re on the shorter side (like me), shorts with a shorter inseam which fall just above the knee would look best. Either way, there’s no one-size-fits-all policy so it might take a little trial and error before finding the perfect pair.
Next up – no shorts work for every situation. Ideally, you should have a strong selection so you’re covered no matter what. For a casual weekend in the park, a pair of retro sports shorts worn with an oversized t-shirt could work well (just take a look at the internet’s incumbent boyfriend Paul Mescal for your style cues). Or, for a 2024-meets-Y2K-coded look, it’s knee-length denim jorts which should be on your wishlist – and these are great with anything from a boxy short-sleeved shirt to a tank top.
Then there’s the routinely asked question – can I wear shorts to the office? The truth is, it totally depends. Since every work environment is different, it’s something you’ll have to assess yourself. If everyone’s in suits, it’s a no-go. But, if your workplace is somewhere where jeans and casual trousers are welcome, the likelihood is that shorts would be fine, too. Just make sure they’re a smart, tailored take and not overly short. Pair them with a relaxed Oxford shirt to up the formal ante.
So, it’s time to find your new summer saviour in our list below. Keep scrolling for our pick of the best.
Dickies Cobden Shorts
If you like Dickies work pants but want an update for summer, why not try the Cobden Shorts? A strong option for work or al fresco dinners, these live on the smarter end of the sports spectrum. The only downside? Like the work pants, you’ll want them in every colour (and there are five, by the way).
Buy now £60.00, Dickies
Adidas Shorts
Though the retro sneaker resurgence has been hyped up for a few years, it’s time to give your shorts the same treatment. Enter Adidas’ reissued design which actually dates back to the eighties. Freddie Mercury, eat your heart out.
Buy now £60.00, End Clothing
Sunspel Pleated Twill Shorts
For office-appropriate shorts, Sunspel’s your best bet. The heritage label’s entire collection is full of timeless classics which are great for more formal occasions – and these pleated shorts crafted from fine French cotton are a prime example.
Buy now £175.00, Sunspel
Arket Woven Boxers, Set of 2
Though these are billed as boxer shorts, just take a look at Paul Mescal at the spring 2025 Gucci show to see they can be so much more than that. Just make sure you wear an extra pair of boxers underneath (eek!). If you want the real deal, Gucci has you covered.
Buy now £27.00, Arket
BDG Jack Mid-Wash Denim Shorts
If you’re into this year’s jorts trend, why not try Urban Outfitters’ take? When styling them up, you could keep it refined with a plain white shirt and loafers or go full-on dad-core in retro kicks and a vintage tee. Whichever you prefer, we’re on board.
Buy now £49.00, Jack Mid-Wash Denim Shorts
Percival X Prince Athleisure Pinstripe Shorts
Percival has teamed up with tennis label Prince on an entire collection of court-inspired pieces – these shorts, included. Though they’re not designed for playing the game itself, they certainly tick the tennis fashion box. Lean into the look with the matching polo.
Buy now £69.00, Percival
Gramicci G-Short
If you’re a guy who likes his ‘fits with an outdoorsy feel, Gramicci is the hiking-meets-lifestyle brand you need on your radar. Though these were originally intended for hiking – hence the webbed belt, hard-wearing cotton twill and relaxed fit – we think they look even better worn to the pub.
Buy now £70.00, Gramicci
Mango 100% cotton denim-effect bermuda shorts
If you’re into the denim trend but feel it’s too casual, maybe Mango’s indigo pair is more your speed. The dark shade and contrast stitch take these up a notch.
Buy now, Mango
Mr P. Wide-Leg Pleated Organic Cotton-Blend Twill Shorts
Every shorts collection could do with a pair of black tailored shorts. The good news? Mr P. has the perfect pair. From the adjustable waistline to the sharp pleats and metal hardware, these are premium through and through.
Buy now £125.00, Mr. Porter
Wales Bonner X Adidas Originals Wide-Leg Crochet-Trimmed Checked Cotton-Twill Shorts
Grace Wales Bonner is one of the most exciting menswear designers right now – and her pieces come with the price tag to match. Luckily, though, if you’re lucky enough to cop a piece from her Adidas collab, it’s available at a much cheaper RRP. Our advice? Get these before they’re gone.
Buy now £130.00, Mr. Porter
Rowing Blazers Men’s Shorts
For collegiate classics, Rowing Blazers should be your first point of call. These breathable mesh gym shorts have been given an Ivy League makeover with the brand’s logo. If you want the full set, there’s a T-shirt and sweatshirt to match, too.
Buy now £82.00, Rowing Blazers
