When it's hot keep it short! Men, here's how to keep it stylish this summer

Flying Machine
Gunjan Karmakar, DGM Design
“Shorts have become conversational now with the variety in prints, textures and styles. Smart shorts, beach shorts and shorts in different lengths are easily avaialable today. The current trend, however, is shorts just above t he k nee which look much smarter. Even cropped shorts with the folded hem and the front pleats detail are trending. Shorts have been in vogue since the late 90s and every era had a unique yet trendy style of its own. Men with good physique like sports personalities carry off shorts really well.”

US Polo Association
Rajesh Kumar, AVP Design
“Around a decade ago, cargo shorts were popular with variations in length, style and detailing. Later, fitted shorts became a popular trend due to t he nautical lifestyle. Tropical weather saw the hot shorts trend in various colours. Teaming shorts with shirts and ties are the new trendsetters for the season. From rugged, outgoing shorts to classy, washed shorts — shorts are here to stay! A major trend this season is printed shorts with tropical or f loral motifs along with micro-prints and other such variations.”

Benetton India Sundeep Chugh, CEO
“Men’s shorts have gone from knee length to cargos to above the knee length incorporating print, patterns, solid and textures. Men’s shorts were definitely at its best in the 90s. It was the era where we saw a lot of new silhouettes, styles the rebirth of the cool casual shorts. Nick Wooster carries the iconic shorts and suit look or even a simple shirt and shorts with such debonair. Currently, the sports inspired casual shorts and washed and lived-in denim shorts rule the roost.”

Pepe Jeans Benny Chowallor, Design Head,
Menswear “Back in the day shorts were plain, casual wear either worn for picnics, yacht parties or Sunday brunches. Over the years, men’s style and fashion consciousness has evolved a great deal. The most preferred styles were the cargo pants with pockets on both sides and capris also known as 3/4 th pedal pushers. Workplaces have now relaxed workwear norms and some institutions have approved shorts acceptable on casual days or working weekends. In terms of ongoing trends, chino shorts with clean cut lines, not hugging the skin a little above the knee, tailored to fit perfectly are in demand. These can be paired with shirts or polo tees. Then there are regular shorts, which are of mid-thigh length, worn at the gym. In Hollywood, Chris Hemsworth carries shorts really well. His husky physique is such that he can wear shorts that are both above and below the knee.


Varun Dhawan does it right with a dash of pink. (Image: Facebook/VarunDhawan.Co)

In Bollywood, I think Varun Dhawan pulls off shorts really well. What’s best about him is that he can carry both casual and Indian wear with class. This summer is about colour play, prints, and outfits with a relaxed vibe. At present the ombre colour trend and tropical prints, are dominant. In terms of material, light linens and chambrays make the cut.”

GAP Oliver Kaye, Business Head
“Men’s shorts have evolved with functionality and fabric innovation. Today, materials such as cotton and denim have become wardrobe staples, while offering variety in length from cutoff to Bermuda shorts. As a garment sustained through time, usage and versatility continue to expand each season within the shorts category. Shorts are a choice bottom that are easy to carry off. Depending on your personal style statement, you can choose a bold print with an understated T-shirt, or vice-versa. Shorts look great on everyone. For men, the everyday short is a must-have offered in a stretch fabric, in a variety of colours, prints, washes, and lengths.”

Jack and Jones, Spokesperson
“Today, shorts are no longer limited to pool parties. With high street brands putting their names to the tailored short, menswear is awash with a wave of party-ready, Japanese or Cuba inspired prints, utility inspired cargoes, the new jogger inspired knit shorts, swim shorts you can wear out of the water and even work-appropriate options depending on the place you work at. One thing good about shorts is that it c o m p l i m e n t s almost all body types. There are many Indian and international celebrities who carry shorts with an effortless ease, be it urban casual, metrosexual or chic sophisticated look. The current shorts style is neater, more structured and notably younger than the Bermuda and board short lengths. Tailored short shorts are also key for this season. If you’re working for an agency or in a more creative environment, rules may be more lax, making shorts a savvy workwear choice. L i g h t w e i g h t , printed linens and textured cottons have a relaxed feel and will work well for high summer ranges, styled with open collar shirts or knitted tees.