For several years, shorts have been replacing long pants in suits, although only the most daring designers have been doing it. This year, the trend has been repeating itself, seen across the Spring/Summer runways in casual and elegant pairings, in virtually every style. From the embroidered cotton crochet shorts at Casablanca and the jacquard knit shorts of Commas to the suede shorts at Zegna. On the streets, we see baggy, oversized shorts that fall below the knee gaining traction, as well as daring short shorts and adidas sneakers for a retro-inspired sporty look, championed by stars like Paul Mescal and Jacob Elordi. We discuss the history of shorts in men’s fashion, and how it became a must-have item for this season. Learn about the most trendy versions of men’s shorts and how to pair them for a fashion-forward look.
Shorts: History and Current Events
Shorts are perhaps the most reemerging trend highlighted by the recent Spring/Summer Fashion Week runway shows. What was once a garment associated with military and sports utility has become a fashion statement in its own right. Men’s shorts first appeared as a strictly utilitarian garment. They were worn by men participating in tennis and athletics, where freedom of movement was essential. During World War I, the British Army popularized shorts, especially during their colonial visits to warmer, more tropical climates. At that time, outside of sports and military contexts, men did not wear shorts. In the 1940s and 1950s, after World War II, the West began adopting casual leisurewear in fashion. The increase in seaside vacations led to shorts being embraced in beach towns, often in bold prints or basic khakis.
In the 1960s and 1970s, shorts became a symbol of youthful rebellion. The rise of sports culture also influenced this trend in men’s shorts as hemlines got shorter and more fitted. This ushered in a new era where shorts became an appropriate option for casual men’s fashion. In the 1980s, amid the fitness craze popularized by figures like Richard Simmons and Arnold Schwarzenegger, shorts grew shorter, tighter, and more colorful. Brands like adidas and Nike contributed to this sporty look by producing shorts in nylon and cotton blends. Bermuda shorts and cargo shorts also gained popularity for more practical, everyday wear.
The influence of hip-hop culture in the 1990s led to shorts becoming longer and baggier, with cargo shorts and basketball shorts reigning supreme. Men’s shorts became a staple in urban and skate culture and were a streetwear must-have. Mesh basketball shorts were worn outside of the courts for an athletic casual look. In the early 2000s, men’s cargo shorts with multiple pockets emerged as a Y2K must-have, and trends in athleisure continued with sporty shorts for casual wear.
In the 2010s, trending shorts ended above the knee, and this decade saw the rise of Chino shorts. Chino shorts featured more polished, fitted styles that were acceptable even in semi-formal settings. Some of the most famous characters in film and television have donned shorts throughout the decades. From Sean Connery as James Bond in Thunderball to Milo Ventimiglia, in This Is Us, and most recently, Nicholas Chavez and Cooper Koch in their late ‘80s portrayal of the Menendez brothers in Netflix’s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story.
Today, on the latest runway, the ‘90s and 2000s inspired the Dsquared2 shorts seen on the runway. Dolce&Gabbana featured fitted, sophisticated Bermuda shorts in solid colors as well as prints. Valentino showcased classic shorts that ended just above the knees in various monochromatic looks. At Burberry, we saw baggier iterations of the men’s shorts that arrived mid-knee in leather and cotton. These Burberry shorts, especially the versions with floral prints, were some standout styles from the latest runways. At Tom Ford, we saw shorter, yet more elegant men’s shorts. Now, let’s look at the most fashionable shorts models of the season. Bode took inspiration from the sporty gym short shorts of the ‘80s in nylon and fun colors, as well as more paired-pack shorts that graze the mid-thigh.
The Most Fashionable Shorts Models in 2025
Amongst the designer men’s shorts seen on the latest runways, there were a few styles that stood out. First up: men’s cargo shorts. This season, Stone Island and C.P. Company did it best. The cargo shorts, with their utilitarian look and multiple pockets, is a classic garment that is great for a casual, laid-back look.
The most elegant version of men’s shorts is definitely tailored linen shorts. We saw versions from quiet luxury expert Brunello Cucinelli, as well as Jacquemus and Boss. Men’s linen shorts, depending on how you style them, can be suitable for semi-formal events during the warmer months.
For the edgy man, we saw oversized, loose-fitting Bermuda shorts from the likes of Dries Van Noten, Y-3 and Comme des Garçons Homme Plus. This was one of the trendier iterations of men’s shorts, often paired with other oversized garments to emphasize the look.
We also saw the classic jean shorts reimagined by brands like Dsquared2 and JW Anderson. Whether paired with a simple t-shirt or a denim shirt for a more fashion-forward look, men’s denim shorts are a wardrobe staple. Now that you know what the trendiest men’s short styles are, we can dive into the best way to style each of them.
How to Wear Men’s Short Shorts
If you’re wondering which type of short pants would look the best on you, there are some general guidelines you can follow. In general, if you’re on the taller side, straight, tailored Bermuda shorts might suit you best. If you’re of medium stature, opt for long shorts. If you have a sturdier build, try loose oversized shorts. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to style shorts this summer season, we break down the best looks based on the latest runway trends. Take a cue from Amiri and opt for a tailored summer look with tailored shorts, a blazer and loafers for the new smart casual look. For an easygoing daytime look, try cargo shorts with a plaid shirt and sneakers as seen on Mihara Yasuhiro’s runway show. For a beachy look, follow the lead of Ami Paris with a short-sleeved v-neck sweater, shorts that arrive below the knee and suede shoes. For an edgier look, follow the lead of LEMAIRE and opt for a layered look. Pair loose-fitting shorts with a button-down shirt, vest and trench coat – everything oversized. Finish off the look with leather sandals and a LEMAIRE shoulder bag for summer evenings. For a more formal look, emulate a look from Jil Sander’s collection. Opt for tailored black shorts with a shirt, tie and sweater. Complete the look with statement animal print boots. Another great look seen on the runways is the total denim look from Magliano. Wear a classic pair of denim shorts with a matching denim shirt and lace-up shoes.
Men’s shorts have come a long way from their utilitarian origins, evolving into a versatile wardrobe staple that adapts to both casual and formal contexts. From tailored linen to oversized Bermudas and retro-inspired gym shorts, this season’s collections offer a variety of styles for every taste and occasion. Embrace the trend by choosing a pair that suits your aesthetic and experiment with pairings that reflect your personal style. Discover how to make shorts an essential part of your Spring/Summer wardrobe.
