How to Wear Shorts (and How Men's Shorts Should Fit)
How to Wear Shorts (and How Men's Shorts Should Fit)
Wearing shorts is a fantastic way to stay cool and maintain a casual vibe during hot weather. Here’s how to ensure you wear them the right way and how they should ideally fit.
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Shorts are perfect for a variety of activities: leisurely weekends, taking your dog for a walk, visiting the beach or pool, barbecues, picnics, and even romantic strolls in the park…you name it.
While shorts are inherently casual, they don’t have to look juvenile or sloppy. So why do many men struggle with wearing shorts well?
The main issue is that they are not wearing shorts that fit correctly or choosing the appropriate styles.
In this guide, we help you avoid these style pitfalls so you can look effortlessly stylish in shorts, showcasing the laid-back, yet dapper, gent you truly are!
How Men’s Shorts Should Fit
For shorts that compliment your body type, you need to focus on both length and width (leg opening).
Shorts Length: How Long Should Men’s Shorts Be?
Similar to swim trunks, your shorts should never extend past your knees.
Your shorts should ideally end at the top of your kneecaps.
Personally, I prefer my shorts a bit shorter, often ending 2-3 inches above my knees. While this is a matter of individual style, I believe shorts extending past the knees never look flattering on any man.
The length of your shorts is measured by the inseam. For men under 5'9", a 7" inseam usually works best.
Shorts longer than this will likely be too lengthy, though you can opt for 9" shorts if you prefer them a bit longer.
If you're under 5'5" or want to show more thigh (recommended), consider trying 5" shorts.
Shorts Width (Leg Opening)
Another common mistake is wearing shorts that are too wide.
Many off-the-rack shorts are too roomy through the leg. Unless you have very thick legs, you'll want to seek out "slim fit" shorts or have your shorts altered.
The goal is to avoid the trapezoid shape—where shorts are wider at the bottom than the top.
This look gives a bottom-heavy appearance similar to women wearing loose skirts, which is good for them but not for men.
Moreover, it makes your legs look thinner because they are engulfed by the fabric.
A gentle taper that follows the line of your body is ideal:
Your shorts should be fitted yet comfortable, allowing for movement.
Ensure there's some room between the fabric and your skin, but not more than a couple of inches.
Slim Fit vs. Classic Fit Shorts
Looking for "slim fit" on the label can help ensure your shorts don't end up too wide. This subtle difference can have a significant impact.
Unless you have particularly large thighs, slim-fit shorts will likely be your best bet. Many U.S. brands make shorts for the average American male, who is around 5'9" and slightly overweight.
Additionally, a lot of American men prefer looser clothing, so "classic fit" (or straight leg) shorts will have ample room and a wider leg opening.
Slim-fit shorts generally feature a slimmer thigh and a more taped leg opening.
Note: There's no universal definition of "slim fit," so various brands may offer different silhouettes.
The best way to find what works for you is to try them on. Brands like Amazon and Bonobos offer free shipping and returns, making it easy to test several pairs at home and keep only the ones you like.
Make Your Shorts Fit Better
Like pants, shorts can be hemmed. Alternatively, you can roll them up to shorten the length.
When trying on shorts, ensure they fit well in the seat and crotch. Other adjustments can be made, including the waist.
You can taper your shorts for $15-$25 and adjust the waist by 1-2 inches.
Men’s Shorts Styles & Aesthetic
You can wear whatever you like, but for a mature and timeless look, here are some quick tips on what to avoid:
- Cargo pockets
- Large, bold patterns
- Bright, saturated colors
- Obvious branding/logos
- Distressing (tears, rips, holes, stains)
Opt for solid colors and small-scale patterns or prints. Small polka dots or floral prints are perfectly acceptable, as long as they are not too bold.
Solid colors like tan, khaki, black, navy, grey, and olive are always safe and classy choices. If you’re unsure which colors work best, check out our guide to neutral menswear colors. When in doubt, khaki chino shorts are a versatile option that pairs well with almost any shirt.
Men’s Shorts Outfit Ideas
Looking for some style inspiration? Here are some examples of men looking great in shorts:
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Now that you know how shorts should fit and how to wear them, you might be thinking, "Hmm, I could use a new pair of shorts...or three."
No worries, I've got you covered!
Where to Buy Men’s Shorts
There are numerous great places to buy men’s shorts, especially chino and tech shorts, which makes listing them all quite challenging. Here are some of our current favorite brands:
If you’re looking to revamp your shorts collection and find a brand that suits you, consider ordering a few pairs from this list. Once you find a good fit, you can explore different styles and colors to be set for a while!
What’s your favorite pair of shorts? Leave a comment below!
Primer's Complete Visual Guide to Men's Shorts
Essential summer style simplified.
Summer has arrived, marking the season for shorts—a staple you might have struggled with since high school. Men’s shorts have seen significant changes over the past two decades in terms of appropriate length and width, but some timeless dos and don’ts remain relevant.
Rest assured, you can look good in shorts regardless of your build or height. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to stay stylish this season. If you’re on a budget, three pairs of shorts can get you through the summer. Read on to determine which shorts to buy and which to leave behind.
How Men’s Shorts Should Fit
What is an inseam, and why should I care?
When shopping for summer shorts, the inseam is a critical factor. The inseam is the length of the seam between the bottom of the crotch and the bottom of the shorts. Unlike pants, which come in various fits like slim, skinny, and relaxed, shorts are mainly offered by inseam length.
A good rule of thumb is to have the bottom of your shorts rest one to three inches above your knee, typically resulting in a 7-9" inseam.
How to Measure the Inseam on Shorts
However, don’t stress over specific numbers: much of it depends on your leg length. At 5'9", with a long torso and short legs, I find a 7" inseam proportionate. Taller men with longer legs might prefer a 9" inseam. Shorts under 7" might show too much, while anything above 9" can resemble 1996 skateboarder fashion.
The key takeaway: there’s no one-size-fits-all. Try them on. Start with a 7" or 9" inseam and see what suits you best.
How slim should my shorts be cut?
The slimness of your shorts depends on your body shape, particularly your legs. Slim legs may require slim shorts, while well-built quads may need a wider cut.
Avoid extremes: shorts too tight can reveal too much, while overly loose shorts won’t move naturally with your legs. A quick test: if you can pinch more than 1.5" of slack fabric, the shorts might be too big.
Since shorts aren’t offered in various fits, except for inseam, waist size is the other adjustable variable. Ensure the waist is well-fitted. If shorts feel too tight, sizing up can offer more room overall.
Prefer visual content? Watch our animated guide on YouTube.
Essential Colors, Fabrics, and Patterns for Men’s Shorts
Summer calls for sartorial simplicity, so each item you wear should be intentional. Fall and winter are great for layering and textures, but summer often limits us to a shirt, shorts, and shoes, leaving little room for error. Choose colors, fabrics, and patterns wisely.
What color shorts should I buy?
For a versatile summer wardrobe, opt for easily matched colors—nothing too bright or saturated. Navy, British khaki, and charcoal are excellent choices. See our graphic to understand how the color of your shorts can alter the outfit's look.
What’s the best fabric for shorts?
Cotton is classic, breathable, and comfortable. For better airflow and an elegant drape, consider linen shorts. Linen is lightweight, cool, and wrinkles charmingly (unlike cotton’s sloppy wrinkles). Ideal for vacations, linen shorts require minimal ironing—just a quick fluff in the dryer. Other great fabric options include seersucker, ripstop, performance fabrics, and blends (like lightweight golf shorts).
Patterned Shorts or Solid Colors?
Start with at least one pair of solid shorts: navy or gray/charcoal are top picks. If you introduce patterns, keep them subtle. Light stripes (like seersucker) can add interest to a solid t-shirt or polo. Fun patterns (e.g., small whales or flamingos) should be occasional pieces, not daily wear.
Should I Tuck My Shirt In When Wearing Shorts?
Usually, no. But shirt length and type, as well as the occasion, play a role. Tucking in shirts is common with pants but more deliberate with shorts, especially in hot weather.
The Shirt Tucking Rules for Shorts:
T-Shirt
Avoid tucking in t-shirts regardless of pants or shorts—they are meant to be casual. While fashion trends show this tucked look, unless you’re aiming for advanced fashion, leave it untucked. The only other people tucking in their t-shirts are older dads—neither fashion-forward nor advisable.
Polo
Polos are designed for an athletic look, negating the need to tuck them unless on the golf course or old enough to have watched the moon landing live. Shorter guys may find untucked pique polos challenging; consider jersey polos with flat bottoms or knit polos with a neater finish.
Read more: 4 Tricks for Wearing Polos If They Make You Feel Like a Dork.
Button Up
Button-ups can go either way. For longer shirts often worn at work, tucking in looks neater. Shorter shirts, designed for versatility, can be left untucked. For BBQs, roll up sleeves and leave shirts untucked. Conversely, for lunch meetings, tuck it in. Always roll up long sleeves with shorts—it’s hot outside!
What Shoes to Wear with Shorts
Shoes dictate the outfit’s casual or dressy tone. You likely already own many suitable options. Regardless, expect your feet to sweat—no-show socks or Gold Bond powder can help.
Types of Men's Shoes to Wear with Shorts
Super Casual Shoes with Shorts
For ultra-casual looks, choose stylish sandals (not hiking ones) or canvas sneakers (not for basketball or running).
Smart Casual Shoes with Shorts
For a step up, espadrilles (or Toms) are economical and stylish. White leather sneakers or boat shoes (especially for boating) are also great choices. Check out Primer’s guide to summer sneakers we're wearing now.
Business Casual Shoes with Shorts
For formal settings (work events or first dates), opt for dressier shoes. Nisolos, driving mocs, suede venetians, or penny loafers are perfect. Personally, I recommend driving mocs: they’re comfortable, elegant, and conversation starters (“Driving shoes were made for wealthy Italians…”).
Summer Accessories to Wear with Shorts
With limited clothing options, accessories add polish to your look. They should enhance, not distract, and serve a function (except for a leather bracelet, if you're feeling stylish). Think classic and timeless. A 38-40mm simple-faced watch, Wayfarer sunglasses, and a woven belt are inexpensive, functional, and complete any casual summer outfit by adding texture or shine. Remember, subtlety isn’t boring; you don’t need a flashy gold watch—aim for a cohesive look.
The Best Men’s Shorts to Start With
Our picks for quality and fit include some budget-friendly options from top stores for affordable men's fashion.
Men’s Summer Outfits with Shorts
Here are some outfit ideas for this summer. For more inspiration, check out our Getup series or view all our summer style features.
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