The Shorts Report
Are shorts getting longer? Plus, what styles I'm wearing this summer, and what brands are making some of the best shorts right now.
Whether you’re rocking sneakers, loafers, or even the questionable flip-flop in the middle of the city, you’re probably looking to do it in shorts. Which styles should you be focusing on this summer though? Well, the options are plentiful, but early signals on the street are pointing towards specific styles that will dominate this summer.
In today’s letter we’re going to find out what those styles are, shorts I’m looking for myself this summer, and a list of shorts from some of my favorite brands that I’m enjoying currently.
SHORTS ARE GETTING LONGER
Let’s get one thing straight; a lot of styles of shorts are widely acceptable right now. The younger gen is continuing their interest in oversized, below the knee shorts with a larger leg opening that gives them a wide cone effect on body.
Menswear enthusiasts are starting to catch up as well by adding more length to their shorts. Pleated shorts that end at the knee are becoming more common in this space—menswear is looking to channel the iconic Giorgio Armani in shorts vibe this summer.
Shorts are getting longer in general, with even capri cuts starting to show up on the feed more frequently—they’re even making headlines in womenswear. There’s a lot of discourse around these online. Many people like them, while many despise the return of what they believe is an “ugly moment in fashion”.
Is there a space for them in the current zeitgeist? If you’re bold enough to dive into the extremes of fashion, then you might have fun with this style right now—I mean, a lot of brands are starting to make their own capris, with even high-end brands like Lemaire creating their own versions, which signals that the interest is definitely there.
Does that mean that short length shorts are out this season? No. While the longer cut is a style that’s wildly popular right now, the 5” and even the 3” inseam short is still just as popular as they were in menswear years ago. They mostly live in the performance world, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from rocking what they want to rock. What I’m saying is, there is space for both to exist in your wardrobe.
I find that a lot of people look for one style of short and commit to that for the entire summer. Why limit yourself to just one type of short? Shorts should come in all shapes and sizes. Having a range will allow you to get a bit creative with your looks when survival from the heat becomes more of a priority.
Plus, getting outside and doing some sort of physical activity is very much the mood this summer, and every summer for that matter, and you’re not going to do that in some long denim shorts. Have variety that you aren’t afraid to lean into across your daily style.
MY PICKS
While deciding which short archetype to subscribe to this summer, I put together a list of various short styles that do different things for different occasions. We got the shorts for the daily life, lounge styles for the summer, beach options, lightweight fabrics for those who want breathability, and so on.
Most importantly though, they all look steezy, and would make great additions to anyone’s wardrobe.
Metalwood is always a good place to start if you are looking for variety in one place. They currently have a range of shorts on their site from swim to that classic menswear look that we talked about earlier.
Personally, my eyes are set on the Digital Hombre short, because I’ve been looking for some new ball shorts, and I’m down for a wilder pattern in my rotation. The Seersucker Spa Short is also worth looking at; I like the wider cut with the elastic waistband—that light-flow breathability!