With summer right around the corner, there’s no better time than now to update your wardrobe with warm-weather appropriate clothes, including shorts. Granted, you can still wear jeans, khakis and other “long pants,” but shorts are the preferred choice for many men during this time of year. When choosing shorts, consider the following factors to find the right pair.
#1) Fabric
Shorts are available in a wide variety of fabric and materials, each of which has its own unique characteristics. Linen is arguably the lightest and softest material, while polyester is a stronger and more resilient material. Check the label to see what exactly the shorts are made of, and choose a fabric that’s appropriate for your needs.
#2) Color
Of course, you should also consider the color of the shorts. There’s no single best color, as it varies depending on when and how you’ll wear the shorts. Ultimately, you need to consider the colors in your other clothes and how they will affect the color of your shorts. If you wear a black t-shirt, for instance, you should avoid wearing black shorts (black and brown don’t mix). White and off-white/beige are excellent colors for shorts, as they flow cohesively with most other colors and styles.
#3) Length
Length is another factor to consider when choosing shorts. If you’ve ever shopped for shorts before (which I’m assuming you have), you’ve probably noticed how some of them are incredibly short, while others extend almost to the knees. So, what’s the right length for a pair of men’s shorts? Most fashion experts will agree that men’s shorts should be no shorter than the mid-thighs and no longer than past the knees. Ideally, they should stop just above the knees. This creates a slimming, attractive appearance, while still giving you enough room to move around without feeling restricted.
#4) Pockets
How many pockets (if any) do the shorts feature? There’s nothing wrong with a few discreet pockets on the side, but you should avoid shorts with half a dozen pockets. Unless you’re planning an outdoor adventure, steer clear of these shorts and instead choose simple designs with just a few functional pockets.
#5) The Cut
Just like jeans are available in different cuts, so are shorts. Some shorts feature a slim cut, creating the appearance of a slimmer figure, while others feature baggy and relaxed cuts.
References: