Mastering the Art of Men's Shorts: The Ultimate Style Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Types of Shorts to Avoid
   1. Swim Trunks
   2. Board Shorts
   3. Jorts
   4. Sports Shorts
3. The Quintessential Shorts for Summer
   1. Flat Front Shorts
   2. Why You Need Flat Front Shorts
   3. Finding the Right Flat Front Shorts
      1. Fabric Options
      2. Fit and Length
      3. Color Choices
      4. Patterns
4. Styling Flat Front Shorts
   1. Dressing Down
   2. Dressing Up
5. What Shoes to Wear with Flat Front Shorts
   1. Low-Top Sneakers
   2. Suede Driving Mocs or Boat Shoes
   3. Sandals or Espadrilles
6. Conclusion

The Ultimate Guide to Rocking Flat Front Shorts

Summer is here, and it's time to update your wardrobe to beat the heat and look stylish at the same time. One essential item you need this season is a pair of flat front shorts. In this ultimate guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know about flat front shorts, from finding the perfect fit to styling them for different occasions.

But before we dive into the world of flat front shorts, let's first discuss the types of shorts you should avoid. Swim trunks may be suitable for the beach or pool, but they are not appropriate for everyday wear. Board shorts and jorts (jeans shorts) should also be left for casual occasions. And while sports shorts made from performance fabrics may seem appealing, they often look out of place in most settings.

Now that we've eliminated the wrong choices, let's focus on the right ones. Flat front shorts are the way to go. They are shorter versions of chino pants and offer a stylish and versatile option for your summer outfits. The absence of pleats in the front gives them a clean and sophisticated look that can be dressed up or down for any social situation.

When shopping for flat front shorts, fabric choice is crucial. Cotton is the go-to option for its comfort and breathability, while linen is perfect if you prefer maximum airflow. Seersucker is another good choice, offering both breathability and a unique texture. Make sure the shorts fit well, with a length that falls between the top of your knee and two inches above it. Look for an inseam of 7 to 10 inches and ensure they don't have excess fabric on the thighs.

Stick to timeless colors like navy, tan, and gray, as they are versatile and easy to pair with other items in your wardrobe. Avoid bold colors like pink and red, as they can be too attention-grabbing. However, if you want to add a pop of color, pastel shades like blue, green, or lavender can work well. When it comes to patterns, choose ones that don't clash with the rest of your outfit and stick to having only one patterned item per outfit.

Now that you know how to find the perfect pair of flat front shorts, let's talk about how to style them. For a casual look, wear them with a crewneck tee or polo, paired with white sneakers and sunglasses. Layer a short or long-sleeve button-up shirt over a tank top and slip-on shoes for an understated and comfortable outfit. If you have a more dressy event to attend, you can swap the t-shirt for a button-up shirt, add loafers and a belt, and tuck in the front of the shirt for a sharp dressy casual look.

And lastly, let's discuss the right shoes to wear with your flat front shorts. Avoid winter shoes or any shoe that goes over your ankle, such as boots or high tops. Low-top sneakers are always a safe and timeless choice, but you can also opt for suede driving mocs or boat shoes for a more elevated look. Sandals or espadrilles can work well, especially if you choose a leather or vegan leather brown version. Remember to wear them with no-show socks or loafer liners for a clean and fashionable look.

In conclusion, investing in a pair of flat front shorts is a must for the summer season. They offer versatility, style, and comfort while keeping you cool in the hot weather. With the right fit, fabric, color, and styling, you can rock your flat front shorts for any occasion.

Keep this ultimate guide handy while shopping for your new summer wardrobe, and you'll be ready to embrace the season with confidence and style!