Shorts are undeniably a casual look, and sometimes it can feel impossible to style them in a way that feels grown-up and clean-cut without becoming boring. And while many of our favorite brands have begun to roll out sumptuous knits and wool trousers we can’t wait to slip on for fall, considering the inescapable scorching-hot weather outside, shorts are going to be a weekend essential for at least a few more weeks. So, get yourself through the last of these dog days of summer by refreshing your shorts wardrobe—not only will it make dressing when the temperatures hit triple digits a snap, but you’ll also be thanking yourself for investing in a fresh pair when you head out on that tropical vacation once the seasons change.
The following four styles run the gamut from edgy to preppy—but all are far from feeling boyish or like you’re channeling your dad on vacation. And, they’re guaranteed to keep you looking and feeling cool during the last of those hot August nights.
Gucci’s cotton shorts ($650) display the brand’s penchant for playful, slightly subversive pieces at its finest. Though they look like plain khaki at first glance, a second look reveals a personality-packed detail: Tiny golden bees, one of the icons of the Gucci Garden, are embroidered throughout. The shorts’ sharply tailored cuts keep them feeling mature, so pair them with a blue button-up shown here to keep things formal (though we’d suggest sticking with traditional loafers). Or, let a T-shirt hang loose over the top to dress them down.
Gucci Shorts Photo: Courtesy Gucci
Made of lightweight (read: ultra-cool) nylon, Theory’s reflective print shorts ($185) are the ultimate easygoing late-summer short. The minimal style will slot right in with the rest of your weekend wardrobe, and thanks to their water-resistant construction, they’re the ideal pool-party companion when you can’t get away with wearing a pair of trunks all day. Wear them with crisp whites for a casual day out, or throw on a bolder shirt—a patterned camp-color style would work nicely—for alfresco dinners.
Theory Shorts Photo: Courtesy Theory
Despite their undeniably bold yellow hue, Dunhill’s twill Bermuda shorts ($195) are the type of summer essential that will be in your closet for the next decade. They are made of comfortable stretch cotton, but their sharp darts and cuffed hems keep them from looking overly relaxed. Finish this look with a relaxed white tunic-style shirt and your favorite sandals for a sophisticated vacation vibe.
Dunhill Shorts Photo: Courtesy Dunhill
A cropped version of your favorite sharp suit pants, these shorts ($945) from Thom Browne are a playful take on summer tailoring. They are cut from wool twill, giving them that familiar suit-style structure, but Browne’s signature red, white, and blue stripes running down the leg adds a subversive, sporty twist. They’ll pair nicely with a tucked-in white shirt for a low-key summer wedding or will work with a lightweight black sweater once the temperature finally starts to break.
Thom Browne Shorts Photo: Courtesy Matches Fashion
