Effortless Fashion for Men: Top Picks for Casual Shorts that Enhance Your Style Instantly
In the sunny days of summer, it's no more awkward to rock those trendy dress shorts! Yep, those days have passed when you'd question if it's appropriate to wear shorts to lunch or a beach club. With designers such as Thom Browne and Rick Owens leading the way, dress shorts for men have gotten a stylish makeover.
Thom's approach is classically refined—his tailored, abbreviated-fit dress shorts are perfect for pairing with button-downs or casual sweatshirts. On the flip side, Rick's oversized, loose-layered, and longer-length styles will elevate your casual look with tees or layered tops. Remember, bagginess doesn't mean too tight—nothing ruins a dressy look quicker than a straining seam! When it comes to fabrics, stick with cottons, linens, and lightweight wools to keep it simple and sophisticated.
Dressing like a Gentleman with Style: GQ’s Top Picks
As fashion enthusiasts, here are the top men’s dress shorts according to GQ:
- The Smartest Pick: COS Tailored Drawstring Linen Shorts, priced at $120
- The Value Pack: Gap Linen-Cotton Shorts, down from $60 to $41
- A Grade-A Upgrade: Todd Snyder Tropical Wool Tab Short, $228
- The Most Formal Shorts: Stoffa Plain Front Washable Short, $475
- Dapper Pleats: Polo Ralph Lauren Relaxed Fit Pleated Twill Short, $198
- Modern Luxury: Auralee Light Wool Gabardine Short, $505
- Breezy Linen Elegance: Alex Mill Pull On Field Short, $150
And the Contenders: More Dress Shorts We Adore!
Want to know how we choose the fabulous fashion finds for men? You know, the wear-everywhere, long-lasting, and stylish must-haves? Keep reading below!
Best Dress Shorts Overall: COS Tailored Drawstring Linen Shorts
COS is the fashion goldmine brought to you by the H&M group. These tailored drawstring linen shorts offer a comfortable, breathable fit that works wonderfully with an unstructured linen jacket or an oversized shirt for summer cocktails. To elevate the outfit, wear these with Derbies and black socks or even backless loafers if you feel fancy.
Best Budget Dress Shorts: Gap Linen-Cotton Shorts
If you're not ready to splurge, go for this affordable option from your friendly neighborhood Gap. Their mid-length, simple, and versatile design will blend in seamlessly with various smart and casual summer outfits. Just make sure your T-shirt or polo is long enough to cover the belt loops!
Best Upgrade Dress Shorts: Todd Snyder Tropical Wool Tab Short
Looking to take it up a notch? This 7-inch tropical wool tab short from Todd Snyder is the choice for you. It's shorter and edgier than most, and Prada fans are head over heels for the short-shorts trend. However, be mindful that these shorts may not suit everyone's preference.
Why Trust GQ's Picks?
You should trust GQ's recommendations because they've been the authorities on men’s fashion for years. They meticulously research and test products to ensure their readers receive high-quality, stylish, and affordable finds for their wardrobe. By reading their guides, you can be confident that you'll hold the keys to the latest and greatest men’s styles.
- The smartest pick for men's dress shorts, recommended by GQ, is the COS Tailored Drawstring Linen Shorts, perfect for pairing with various outfits such as unstructured linen jackets or oversized shirts.
- If you're looking for an affordable dress short option, GQ advises choosing the Gap Linen-Cotton Shorts, which offer a mid-length, versatile design for both smart and casual summer outfits.
- For those wanting to elevate their style with a high-end dress short, GQ recommends the Todd Snyder Tropical Wool Tab Short, a 7-inch short featuring an edgy, shorter length that's popular among Prada fans.
