History of Men's Shorts

Historically reserved for warmer climates or as beachwear, the trend of men wearing shorts only started shortly after the second World War, when soldiers in tropical climates wore them for comfort’s sake. Even then, it was seen as a kind of uniform for certain sports and recreational activities or as semi-formal wear for boys.

History of Men's Shorts

It wasn’t until the 1950s did it become fashion commodity, thanks to the likes of Marlon Brando and other leading Hollywood men who were seen wearing them. The trend of wearing shorts to social gatherings peaked in 1970s—otherwise known as the decade where anything goes. From cut-off denim shorts to athletic shorts and dress shorts, men were seemingly flaunting them everywhere. In the ’80s and ’90s however, when the economies in most parts of the world were experiencing growth followed by a recession, men went back to traditional suiting—mostly in blacks, greys and sometimes camel—and the trend of wearing shorts went back to being reserved for summer vacations.

The trend resurfaced again in 2007, when Thom Browne sent male models down the runway in short suits. The year after he was named menswear designer of the year by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). Although it became part of Browne’s eponymous label’s identity, it wasn’t a popular choice for men.

History of Men's Shorts

Recently, however, the idea of shorts for men, and more specifically, short suits for men have been revived by the likes of Pierpaolo Piccioli for Valentino and Chanel-owned Orlebar Brown—a British menswear and lifestyle label founded by photographer Adam Brown on the concept of smart men’s swimwear. We also have the likes of Pharrell WilliamsLeBron James and Brad Goreski to thank for its comeback.

Will the resurgence of shorts for men be as short-lived as its past revivals, or will it finally become a mainstay in our wardrobe? Only time will tell. But for now, if you are going to incorporate them into your outfits to up your sartorial game, here’s how.

This article was originally published in Harper’s Bazaar Singapore.

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