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10 best men's summer shorts

Step into summer with a stylish pair to see you through the heatwave

Friday 03 July 2015 17:06

With these temperatures, it’s tempting to leave the house in nothing but swimwear and flip flops. Shorts are a more socially-acceptable alternative. From relaxed, beach-appropriate styles to tailored classics and designer choices, we’ve selected pairs for every budget.

1. Stanton Oxford Cloth Short with Embroidered Hula Girls: £75, jcrew.com

Since J.Crew landed in London in 2013, it has gained loyal following in the UK. These white shorts embroidered with palms and hula girls will take you to hot Hawaii regardless of your current location. They’re a slim fit and are made of super-soft cotton so they feel light in the heat.

2. Ltd Montauk Surf Blue Denim: £34, topman.com

Think of a pair of swim shorts, but in timeless blue denim. These are a relaxed fit and have an elasticated waistband with drawstring fastening, back pockets and no zip, so they are super comfortable, but effortlessly stylish.

3. Baynard Jeans-Shaped Jersey Shorts: £68, foxhalllondon.com

If it’s too hot for denim, but you like the look, these shorts in breezier jersey fabric from the London-based retailer have the shape of classic structured jeans, but without the stiffness. They have two zip back pockets, where you can keep credit cards and cash safe.

4. Hentsch Man Striped Shorts: £110, mrporter.com

The Brazilian-born label began with white shirts only, but expanded into a wide collection of simple, quality tailoring. These soft cotton striped shorts will keep you cool in the heat. They’ve got straight-leg fit and back pockets with button detailing. There’s a matching blazer if you want to complete the dapper look.

5. Gant Shorts in Indigo Blue: £70, zalando.co.uk

The American heritage brand is the go-to shop for men in search of quality, stylish, wardrobe staples. Channel your inner sailor with these nautical-inspired navy cotton shorts with a white anchor print. They’re a classic fit and come in red, too.

6. Speagle: £145, orlebarbrown.co.uk

The London-based label is popular for its well-fitting swimwear, but also does stylish shorts for when on dry land. These, in the on-trend sky blue, have the label’s signature side adjusters, useful pockets, including a coin one at the waistband, and a concealed button fastening.. These are an investment but you’ll wear them for many summers to come. Also available in navy and white.

7. Givenchy Tailored Shorts: £335, farfetch.com

This black pair from the luxe French label is our pick for blokes wanting to up their fashion game (and with cash to spare). They’re like a pair of tuxedo trousers made into shorts, they fall just above the knee and have a hanging tag attached to the back zip pocket for a designer twist.

8. Chino Shorts: £14.99, hm.com

If you prefer wearing brights in summer, then this pair of yellow shorts will add a bold splash of colour to your wardrobe. They’re slim fit and you can roll-up the hems for the full-chino effect. For £15, we think they’re a steal.

9. Men’s Chino Shorts in Deep Pink: £49.95, joules.com

These ones are a slightly longer than the H&M pair, but they, too, can be rolled-up if you like that look. The leg is narrower than average so they’ll work for smart occasions. This raspberry shade is more versatile than you think, but they also come in khaki and navy polka dot.

10. Wrinkle Free Shorts: £59.90, austinreed.com

If ironing is not your thing, then these shorts from the classic British brand are for you. They’re made of premium cotton, which doesn’t crease, and the light beige colour and tailored fit make them a timeless summer staple.

Verdict:

If you like everything bright and bold come summer, H&M’s good-value chinos are a winner. For anyone looking to invest in a more grown-up pair that will work for smarter occasions, try our picks from Orlebar Brown, Gant and Hentsch Man.