When temperatures rise, we naturally think about swapping our pants for shorts . And that doesn't mean we should neglect our style!
Can you wear shorts to work? Should I go for shorts or Bermuda shorts? How do I match them with my other summer clothes? There are many questions about men's summer bottoms.
And we will try to answer it in this article. Here are some keys to choosing beautiful shorts and tips for wearing them and combining them with your summer outfits.
Can I wear shorts to the office?
Let us take note of what is stipulated in article L1121-1 of the Labor Code:
“No one may impose restrictions on the rights of individuals and on individual and collective freedoms which are not justified by the nature of the task to be accomplished or proportionate to the aim sought.”
In other words, your manager cannot legally prevent you from wearing a specific item of clothing as long as it does not affect your working conditions .
Of course, if you occupy a position subject to strict safety, hygiene or image rules, the employer can force you to wear safety shoes, a helmet and long pants . It is necessary for the employer to justify his decision if he chooses to prohibit a dress code.
Outside the legal framework, the codes have become more flexible . In more casual work settings, shorts are completely tolerated . This is the case in the Bonnegueule offices, for example.
Now let's move on to practice.
Shorts or Bermuda shorts?
What is the difference between the two?
In theory, it's all about the length . Shorts usually come to mid-thigh. They are also historically associated with the field of sport.
Bermuda shorts are a little longer and come closer to the knees.
In common usage, we more often speak of shorts to encompass both.
How to choose the right one?
Now let's see what are the good criteria to have when choosing your shorts .
The most important: lightness and breathability .
This is done through the cut : don't make your shorts too tight. The garment must be loose enough not to hinder the movement of your legs.
Next, think about the material . While sports shorts, often made of synthetic materials (especially polyester), have the advantage of drying quickly, they can have a shiny, plastic appearance that is not very attractive and, above all, tend to absorb more odors.
We advise you instead to go for models made from natural materials , such as cotton or linen.
For practicality of use, go for a model with pockets. If you have a zipped or buttoned one, it's even better for securing your personal belongings.
Breathable cotton seersucker shorts paired with a lightweight shirt
For colors and patterns, several schools exist:
- You can choose a sober model , for example in blue, beige or green tones. These are models suitable for sober outfits, or to be enhanced with other stronger pieces: a patterned shirt for example
- Otherwise, you can opt for a colorful or patterned model to bring a little pep to your summer wardrobe.
On the left, a sober, navy blue BonneGueule short . On the right, a patchwork Beams+ short, much more colorful and original.
Shorts don't have to be just plain and flat, on the contrary. Because they are visually smaller than pants, don't hesitate to choose models with details that make a difference , for example:
- unique pocket shapes (cargo or fatigue type)
- a different belt (e.g. drawstring or gurkha)
- clips or a cuff for a more elegant look
On the left, a pair of OrSlow shorts with so-called "fatigue" patch pockets, inspired by American "fatigue pants". On the right, a pair of Informale shorts with a double-strapped "gurkha" belt.
Can swim shorts be worn in an urban setting?
Nothing is written in stone, but we would tend to advise against it .
The main reason is the length: swim shorts are short, reaching above mid-thigh, which is not really suitable for wearing in the city.
The other reason is the style: most swim shorts are easily recognizable. They are more often colorful or with stronger patterns than usual.
Example here with our Madrague swim shorts with camouflage pattern :
However, one exception can be mentioned.
If you are on holiday at the seaside, you come out of the water in your swimsuit and quickly get dressed, keeping your swimsuit on, to go for a walk in the town next door, then that seems perfectly acceptable to us.
In this case, the result will be all the more successful if your swimsuit is beautiful. :)
How to wear it well?
Once you have chosen your bottoms, let's see how to wear them simply and effectively .
Look Casatlantic
First of all, you can choose it in a light and shimmering color to stroll on the fine sandy beaches. The ecru shorts are perfectly suited, as an alternative to white pants. Warmer than a beige, the honey-colored polo shirt supports a resolutely summery atmosphere.
Photo credit: @timdessaint on Instagram
If you have a more streetwear look, loose-fitting shorts will pair very well with an oversized t-shirt or hoodie.
On this type of silhouette, you can wear shorts with a stronger pattern, or visible white socks (which initially come from sportswear) as Tim Dessaint does here.
Here, a look from Pitti Uomo 2017. Credits: Christian Vierig/Getty.
In a more formal style, Bermuda shorts can be paired with collared tops (like a shirt or polo shirt) and loafers or espadrilles.
You can even consider pairing it with a blazer. The secret in this case is to take a casual blazer, and more dressy shorts.
Example here with our Otranto jacket + Otra shorts set. A resolutely casual and summery outfit.
Finally, why not try a short suit? In a very casual spirit, the result can be very nice as above!
Need inspiration? Check out this episode of Panache . We also cover the topic in this guide to staying stylish in the summer .
Where to find nice shorts and Bermuda shorts?
- Casatlantic
- Mr. P
- Universal Works
- Well Made
- Rubinacci
- Informal
- Beams+
- Orlebar Brown
- Fabrics
You can also explore vintage shorts, which often have charm. In France, you can find them online at Universal Surplus for example.
Also discover our range of shorts designed in a rich range of Italian fabrics and our swimming shorts in creative and certified Portuguese materials:
We hope this guide will help your legs breathe! And of course, we are always here to answer your questions, in the comments section below.
