Sun's Out, Thighs Out: 5 Shorts for Every Style
As summer approaches and temperatures rise, it's time to let our legs breathe by breaking out the shorts.
But where to start looking? While the TikTok trend brought on more 5-inch short styles for men, longer and shorter lengths are still viable options. It all depends on personal style preferences and height.
An old-style rule was that shorts should be two inches above the knee, but as GQ (the-formula-for-the-perfect-length-shorts) pointed out, that rule is very much outdated. The men's publication came up with its own formula for figuring out which shorts length is ideal based on your height and love of your legs.
In short, the taller you are, the longer the shorts. Those between 5'5" and 5'8" can look at shorts with 5" length, 7" shorts for those between 5'9" and 6', and 9" shorts for anyone taller than 6 feet. This method is great when looking at shorts for a casual office or anywhere else where you can get away with shorts and need to dress up. You can certainly go shorter or longer for everyday and lounging, and especially when working out, at the beach or poolside.
To help you find a pair of shorts that fits your style, here are a few examples of what to get this season:
Everyday Shorts
Abercrombie & Fitch All Day Shorts
As the name implies, you can be in these A&F shorts all day. While it has a classic look with a 5-inch inseam, there's a soft elastic waistband for comfort. The material is a stretchy cotton blend, and the shorts are breathable thanks to its moisture-wicking properties. Style with your favorite summer tee or camp shirt and be ready to go. For another comfortable option, check out A&F's Seersucker Pull-On Shorts with its ribbed elastic waistband, side vents, and drawcord string.
Price: $60
To Lounge In
H&M Regular Fit Sports Shorts
Get cozy in these H&M cotton-blend jersey shorts. With contrasting details on the side zipper pockets, there's a ventilated mesh section at the inner thighs of the shorts for breathability. Perfect for indoor relaxing and when it gets cold, but if will be lounging outside, can check out H&M's Linen Shorts for a pair to easily rest in and stay cool.
Price: $34.99
For The Active Outdoors And On The Go
Patagonia Lightweight All-Wear Hemp Shorts
Designed to keep you cool in the hot weather, these lightweight shorts are made of organic cotton and hemp. A Fair Trade Certified sewn style, they are perfect to hike and bike in and are available in three different lengths (6, 8, and 10 inches). For a shorter length option, check out Patagonia's Baggies, which features quick-drying recycled nylon made from recycled fishing nets.
Price: $59
Beach or Poolside
Fair Harbour The Sextant Trunk
Be stylish and sharp in Fair Harbour trunks that were inspired by James Bond's iconic beach looks. Featuring their BreezeKnit liner (which is a breeze to slip into and 100% chafeless), the quick-dry trunks are made of recycled polyester, offer 4-way stretch to move freely in, and are naturally odor-resistant.
Price: $88
From Work to Sweat
lululemon Commission Classic-Fit Short 7"
Designed to move in, Lulu's Commission shorts feature the brand's Warpstreme fabric, which feels smooth and has been knit to resist wrinkles. Breathable and quick-drying, look good in the office or on the golf course in this athletic take on the classic chino. Also available in 9" and 10".
Price: $88