Men’s Shorts

It’s time for cook outs and fishing trips, days at the beach and of course, time to start working in the yard! Before you don the flip flops and tank tops, you want to make sure your summer wardrobe is ready to go. Your first step is to make sure you have plenty of shorts. There are many things you will want to consider before buying men’s shorts. You’ll want to make sure you look at all of your options, from cargo shorts to board shorts, and choose several pairs of shorts so that you have a flexible and comfortable summer wardrobe.

Khaki Shorts

Cotton shorts

There are lots of fabrics to choose from in men’s shorts. There are many fabric blends which are used in men’s shorts. Usually, the higher the actual cotton content, the more casual the style is. Most men tend to look for comfort above fashion, and if this is what you’re looking for, 100% cotton is the way to go. Shorts made from 100% cotton are going to be your best bet if you want to play a game of ball with the guys or are spending the day pushing the mower through the yard. They are great for wearing with t shirts, tank tops or sweatshirts and athletic shoes or sandals. These shorts are very soft, will breathe well while absorbing sweat and wash up quickly and easily. They are usually pre-shrunk to ensure long wear and value. Comfort, functionality and flexibility can all be found in 100% cotton shorts. They are machine washable and dryer safe, with no need of ironing.

Cargo Shorts

Other shorts fabrics

Shorts made of cotton blends or cotton twill blends are also soft, but are more stiff fabrics than 100% cotton. These cotton blends are used to make khaki shorts or chinos and seersuckers. These fabrics are machine washable, as well, but need to be washed in cold water, dried on a lower setting and more often than not, need to be ironed. These shorts typically have pockets and belt loops as well as a zip front closure. These shorts have a more tailored, closer fit. They are typically worn with collared shirts with sleeves, on less casual occasions than pure cotton shorts. Depending on what is worn with them, khakis are considered dress attire during the summer, especially in the more tropical climates. While being a tighter weave and stiffer blend, these shorts are still very comfortable and lightweight and perfect for hot summer days or nights. Denim shorts are also a cotton blend short. While denim shorts come in and out of trendy fashion, they are very versatile and sturdy. They can be worn as casual or semi casual attire. These shorts are long lasting and can remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. It is best to have several pairs of each fabric of shorts in your wardrobe so you are prepared to look your best, no matter what the occasion.

Denim Shorts

Standard colors

You’ll want to make sure that you have several colors of shorts to ensure that you have a flexible yet stylish wardrobe. Khaki shorts should be a constant staple in every man’s wardrobe. Khaki has been in style for decades and will remain, for decades to come. There are many shades of khaki, from stone to dark khaki. Make sure to compliment the shirts in your wardrobe with khakis that match. You will want to wear darker khaki with lighter shirts and lighter khaki with darker shirts. Don’t ever try to wear shirts and shorts that are the exact same shade. Dark colored shorts are a must in every man’s wardrobe. Pick several pairs of shorts in black, blue, dark brown and gray. Keep track of what shirts you have already or are planning to buy so that you can have a color coordinated wardrobe. You can wear these dark shorts with light colored polo shirts, button downs and even t shirts. Always make sure that you coordinate your belt color with your shorts and shoes to look your best. Many people try to stay away from white shorts for one reason or another. White shorts can be part of a great looking outfit, if worn with the right shirt. White always looks good during the summer,  especially with a tan.

Plaid Shorts

Shorts in patterns

Recently, plaid shorts have become very stylish, and you may want to consider selecting several different plaid patterns if staying with the trends is something that is important to you. Don’t select color schemes that you are uncomfortable with. Make sure that if you purchase plaid shorts, you have color coordinated shirts to match, so that you always look your best. There’s also been a trend lately among boys and younger men for long board shorts that are made from fast-drying synthetics and often wildly patterned, with anything from sports team logos to graffiti designs.

Board Shorts

Length and fit

When buying men’s shorts, keep in mind that while every length is in style, you should be comfortable with what you wear. If you’re confident in how you look, you’re going to look great. Casual shorts tend to be shorter than more formal or classic shorts. There’s a reason for this. If you’re working out or working up a sweat, chances are you don’t want shorts down to your knee caps. Many shorts for hiking and other outdoor activities come with extra “cargo” pockets. However, if you are purchasing shorts for any occasion other than physical or sports activities, it’s best to go with either a 9” or 11” inseam. Most khaki shorts and plaid shorts have an 11” inseam. Either is fashionable at all times. Right now, a lot of young men are wearing shorts that have longer inseams. While this is a matter of personal fashion preference, if you are looking to add shorts to your wardrobe that will be suitable for years to come, going with a more traditional length is best. Well-known shorts vendors include L.L.Bean, Land’s End, J.Crew, Eddie Bauer and Banana Republic, as well as youth-oriented manufacturers like Abercrombie & Fitch or Diesel.