Men's Shorts

Cotton Chino Essentials

Chino shorts form the backbone of most summer wardrobes because they walk the line between smart and casual perfectly. Lacoste’s cotton chino shorts offer that crisp, structured feel that works with everything from polo shirts to linen button-downs. The mid-thigh length hits the sweet spot for modern styling, not too long and not too short.

The cotton construction breathes well in warm weather while maintaining enough structure to look polished. These work equally well for beach-adjacent dining or casual office environments where dress codes relax during summer months.

Performance Swim and Quick-Dry Styles

Paul & Shark’s swim shorts bring Italian sophistication to beach and poolside settings. Quick-dry fabrics mean you can transition from water activities to lunch without the discomfort of wet shorts clinging to your legs. The construction typically includes mesh linings and drainage grommets for faster drying.

These styles often feature longer inseams than traditional board shorts, creating a more refined silhouette that works better if you’re planning to wear them beyond just swimming.

Cargo and Utility Options

Napapijri’s cargo-style shorts bring adventure-ready functionality without looking too tactical. Multiple pockets provide practical storage for phones, wallets, and keys, essential when you’re spending long days outdoors or traveling light.

Modern cargo shorts have evolved from the baggy, military-inspired styles of the past. Current versions offer more tailored fits while retaining the functional pocket systems that make them so practical.

Understanding Shorts Lengths

The inseam length dramatically affects how shorts look and feel. Mid-thigh lengths (around 7-9 inches) offer the most versatility and work across different body types. Shorter inseams create a more contemporary look but require confidence to wear well.

Longer options provide more coverage and tend to look more conservative, making them better for situations where you want to err on the side of modesty or formality.

Fabric Choices for Different Activities

Cotton and cotton blends work best for casual wear and situations where you prioritise comfort over performance. They breathe well and get softer with washing, though they take longer to dry if they get wet.

Quick-dry synthetic blends excel for water activities and active pursuits. They typically include stretch fibres for better movement and moisture-wicking properties to keep you comfortable during physical activity.

Canvas and heavier cotton twills provide more structure and durability, making them ideal for situations where you need shorts that look smart enough for casual dining or social events.

Styling Across Different Settings

Chino shorts pair naturally with polo shirts, lightweight button-downs, and casual knitwear. They work with both trainers and leather shoes, making them incredibly versatile for summer styling.

Swim shorts transition well from beach to casual dining when paired with linen shirts or lightweight tees. The key is ensuring they’re completely dry and choosing styles with more tailored fits.

Cargo shorts work best in casual, outdoorsy settings. They pair well with technical tees, lightweight fleeces, and sturdy trainers or hiking sandals.

Butterworths Online offers free UK delivery on orders over £50, straightforward 30-day returns, and customer service that understands fit preferences across different short styles. Build a summer wardrobe that handles every warm-weather occasion with our curated men’s shorts collection.