Q. My grandfather insists that it is never appropriate to wear shorts other than at home or on vacation. I believe that the options have expanded from his day, but I do recognize he has experience. So when is it acceptable today for a man to wear shorts?
A. I suppose you're both right to an extent, and that it also depends upon what the rest of your outfit is. Wearing shorts is a casual way of dressing that has become very popular for summer wear for adults. Basically, there are three rules about when to wear them -- this is an all three, not an any of the three, set of rules:
When the temperature is high.
When you are in the right casual environment and in the right location.
When you're not conducting business or attending a formal event. Everyone knows that in Bermuda, wearing shorts with a blazer is pretty common, but that is the exception. When you are conducting business or you're at a formal event elsewhere, you need to wear trousers.
How Long Should Shorts Be?
To the knee or slightly above is the best length. Don't go shorter than two to three inches above the knee. Athletic shorts can be shorter because allowing you to move freely serves a function.
• Fit -- Better to be close-fitting than loose. Shorts add bulk to the hips/seat area and the top of the thighs. You don't want shorts that are baggy or that billow out on the sides. Avoid pleats on shorts unless you are large in the seat (and if you are, maybe you should avoid shorts altogether).
• Colors, Patterns -- Color affects the mood and the formality. Khaki shorts are the most common. Solid colors such as khaki, tan, white, navy and olive are the most traditional for men's shorts. They're the easiest to mix and coordinate. When you bring in reds, blues and greens, you add to the informality.
Colored shorts can be more fun, but they make you stand out a bit more. Classic patterns such as stripes and checks add variety. Plaids, especially Madras, are a preppy staple, and should be worn with caution. Louder-patterned shorts work better for beach vacations, the local pizzeria and outdoor concerts. Staying with a solid color and a traditional style makes wearing shorts easier to pull off.
• Pockets, Styles -- Cargo shorts are great for hiking or working outside. Beyond that, they are less popular than they once were. These bulky, multi-pocketed shorts are super-casual and don't look great in social settings.
What to Avoid:
Shorts that are too loud and too short as well as shorts that look like swim shorts. They draw attention to your belly and your seat areas, not necessarily a man's most attractive points of focus.
What Shoes to Wear with Shorts:
Often guys wear sandals or flip-flops, but these are best reserved for really casual situations such as the beach. Otherwise, consider boat shoes, moccasins, casual loafers or sneakers. Ideally, wear no socks or no-show socks with shorts. Socks with shorts are not as bad as socks with sandals, but the combination is not a young man's look.
What Shirts to Wear with Shorts:
One of the easiest ones to pull off is the polo shirt. But a T-shirt (with or without a message) also works for a casual combination. To dress up your look a bit, add a short-sleeved button-front sport shirt or a long-sleeved lightweight button-down shirt (probably with the sleeves rolled up a turn or two). As to whether or not to tuck the shirt in, you don't have to, but tucked in will give you a neater, more polished look.
Clothing manufacturers like to be able to sell men more pieces of clothing each season, and men like the cool comfort that shorts provide, so shorts are finding wider acceptance. But wearing shorts well is still something that requires some extra thought. To ensure you don't embarrass yourself when wearing shorts, keep these Don'ts in mind.
Don'ts:
Don't wear shorts with a blazer or other sport coat or neckwear (unless you are in Bermuda).
Don't wear shorts to the office, unless it is your home office.
Don't wear white or light colored shorts with pockets. The lining always shows through.
Don't wear athletic shorts, bike shorts or board shorts for anything other than their purpose.
Don't wear shorts if you don't want to call attention to your legs.
While it's always acceptable to wear long pants, often it's not acceptable to wear shorts. Long, lightweight linen or cotton pants that are similar in comfort to shorts are more refined and polished-looking. When in doubt, wear long pants.
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High Profile on 07/24/2016