Today's Special - SHORTS

TODAY'S SPECIAL - SHORTS

In addition to shedding layers, you should rotate your jeans or chinos out for shorts. Yes, let those legs breathe and get acquainted with how your shorts should fit in the latest entry in the Effortless Gent Perfect Fit series.

Last time out, we talked about how your dress shirt should fit. This time, we take things much more casual.

If you’ve got a favorite pair of slim chino shorts to wear all summer, good for you.

Still searching for that perfect pair – and that perfect fit? We can certainly help there, too.

Make no mistake: We’re looking for upgraded fabrics and slimmer fits. No baggy cargo shorts that most of us went for in high school and college. *raises hand*

So, who’s with me? Let’s get to it.

HOW SHOULD MY SHORTS FIT?

Today’s key question — How should your shorts fit? — doesn’t have a straightforward answer – not least because we’re all different heights, roughly.

Yes, one of the keys to look for when shorts shopping involves length. And that’s also an easy place to start when it comes to how your shorts should fit.

For all but the very tall among us, shorts with an inseam of 7 or 9 inches do the trick in terms of length.

That brings us to our first key point: Avoid shorts that hit below your knees. Their baggy, sloppy appearance just looks odd visually.

Also Read:  The Best Shoes To Wear With Shorts

A shorter pair of shorts (pun intended) brings another benefit. Less fabric = a slimmer fit.

Think of it like this: When you tailor your suit trousers to hit the tops of your shoes, you create a clean finish and slim fit.

It’s the same with shorts that hit above the knee. They’re instantly more polished, whether you pair those shorts with a slim chambray shirt or a classic pocket tee.

That’s the case with your average, everyday shorts – like a pair of slim cotton shorts or more versatile shorts made with casual fabric blends – but more on all that in a second.

One more thing to look for – rather than reaching for “relaxed fit” shorts, opt for something slim.

Retailers like J. Crew are making modern, relatively affordable, and tailored cotton shorts that fit the bill nicely. And hey, that particular pair in the link features the coveted 7-inch inseam! Not too shabby.

Now, that doesn’t mean that you want your shorts to fit as tight as tailored swim trunks. Go for a pair that gives you room to move, sit, stand, and maybe even take on a game of beach football (don’t get too crazy, though).

Finding the perfect fit could require trying on a few pairs, but practice makes perfect and it’s well worth it.

THINK OF IT THIS WAY:

• Reach for shorts with a shorter inseam – 7 or 9 inches ought to work nicely.
• Look for shorts that feature a slim-yet-mobile cut.
• Avoid cargo shorts or shorts that hit below the knee.

Also Read:  The Best Shoes To Wear With Shorts

WHAT TO AVOID

OK, class is still in session. You know how your shorts should fit for summer. But what about how you don’t want them to fit?

Pay attention, because this one’s a doozie (I kid, I kid).

But in all seriousness, there are a few mistakes to avoid when it comes to how your shorts should fit.

For one, excess fabric – usually through the thigh and toward the knee – is a killer.

Excess fabric makes your shorts hang too low or hit below the knee. Both are great ways to wreck an otherwise solid outfit. And baggy shorts with too many pockets detract from all the high points of summer style.

Whether the focal point of your outfit is classic white sneakers or a slim printed shirt, you want style that’s on-point.

You should absolutely avoid those outfit-killers. And if you want your shorts to stand up to repeated wears and washes over the summer, avoid paying for shorts on the cheap – as we always discuss here at Effortless Gent.

It pays to invest in a quality pair of shorts. Retailers like Bonobos make consistently excellent and versatile chino shorts that are built to last. And companies like OLIVERS Apparel go the extra mile with tailored shorts made from performance-ready fabric.

Brands like Bonobos also offer a range of fit and fabric options (we particularly love the plethora of colors and fits available via the brand’s Washed Chino Shorts).

If that all sounds simple – pay for quality and look for a great fit – know that it takes time to get it just right.

THINK OF IT THIS WAY:

• Baggy shorts with excess fabric and too many pockets detract from your style.
• Shoddy fabrics and construction should be avoided – reach for quality instead.
• Look to brands that make shorts built to last through multiple wears and washes.

Also Read:  The Best Shoes To Wear With Shorts