Shorts! Shorts! Shorts!

The sun is out, temperatures are rising (or at least, they will be soon), and it’s time to let those legs breathe! Whether you’re ready to update your summer wardrobe or just looking for some short styling tips, I’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about wearing shorts the right way—what to buy, how to style them, trends to watch, and which shorts to avoid.

First..you need to figure out what length works for you

When it comes to shorts, your preferred length will depend on your personal style and height. Generally, I recommend sticking with a 5 or 7-inch inseam for most people. These lengths are versatile, comfortable, and flattering on most body types.

Let’s Talk Linen..a summer essential!

Linen shorts are a summer essential, offering breathability and a relaxed, flowy vibe. Because they’re more casual, they pair perfectly with sandals or Birkenstocks. I love styling linen shorts with a crochet polo or a button-down shirt (either short-sleeve or long-sleeve). Linen is perfect for hot weather, and it’s a go-to for laid-back, vacation-ready looks.

Chino Shorts

For a slightly more formal look, chino shorts are a great option. These are perfect for summer events where you want to stay cool but still look put-together. Chino shorts come in a variety of styles, from more formal side-tab designs to casual, everyday chinos. When styled correctly, you can even pair them with loafers for a polished, relaxed vibe.

Nylon/Athletic Shorts

If you’re running errands or just having a casual day out, athletic shorts are the way to go. These are great for pairing with sneakers and a cool T-shirt, offering maximum comfort for a laid-back look. I love athletic shorts from brands like ALD, Abercrombie (their mesh shorts are amazing), Nike, Reebok, and New Balance. Plus, vintage pairs from eBay are always a cool option!

Swim Shorts

When it comes to swimwear, you have endless options, but the key is balance. If you’re wearing patterned swim shorts, keep the top simple with a solid-colored shirt, and vice versa. If you’re opting for solid-colored swim shorts, feel free to get creative with fun patterns on top. My favorite brand for men’s swimwear is OAS—they have a great selection of stylish and comfortable options.

Shorts to Avoid

While there are so many great shorts out there, some are better left in the past:

Athletic Material Shorts (Golf Shorts): These are fine for golfing but don’t work well with dressier pieces like an Oxford button-down. They can look out of place when paired with anything other than athletic wear.

Cargo Shorts: We’re not in 2010 anymore—let’s leave the baggy, utilitarian cargo shorts behind.

Trending Shorts Right Now

Now that you know the ideal length, what shorts you need, what shorts to get rid of, let’s talk about what shorts are trending. Trends come and go, but if you like it, wear it! Here are a few shorts trends I’ve been seeing:

Baggy Denim Shorts: Baggy denim shorts are back! I noticed this trend a lot during my trip to Australia last year. If you want to try a more relaxed, oversized look, this could be a cool option.

Corduroy Shorts: If you’re not quite ready to dive into full-on linen shorts, corduroy is a great in-between. I love these shorts from Buck Mason—they’re perfect for spring, adding texture without being too heavy.

Athletic Nylon Shorts with a Dressed-Up Look: Lately, people have been pairing athletic nylon shorts with more dressed-up outfits (think button-down shirts or jackets, instead of just T-shirts). This is definitely trendy, but it’s an interesting way to elevate a casual look.

Now, Where to Shop?!

If you’re looking to up your shorts game this spring and summer, here are some of my favorite brands for all types of shorts:

• Chinos: Buck Mason and Todd Snyder have amazing chino options that are both stylish and comfortable.
• Linen Shorts: Suit Supply has some great linen shorts, and Abercrombie is a more affordable option for linen as well.
• Athletic Shorts: ALD and Kith have some of the best athletic shorts, offering both style and comfort.

That’s all for my shorts guide! Whether you’re looking for linen, chino, or athletic shorts, I hope this helps you find the perfect fit for your spring and summer wardrobe. Follow along for more tips and tricks, and don’t forget to let those legs breathe!