This season has been dubbed "thigh guy summer" as men's shorts have risen higher than ever, with even Marks & Spencer introducing its shortest-ever range, featuring inseams of less than 12.7cm (5in). The trend follows in the footsteps of celebrities like Paul Mescal, Donald Glover and Milo Ventimiglia, who have all embraced the thigh-grazing look in recent years.
Short shorts are nothing new – think John Travolta in Perfect or Tom Selleck as Magnum PI – but a man's bare legs still cause a stir. Whether on the red carpet or spotted in the wild, celebrity sightings of short shorts send the internet into a frenzy. Yet for the average man, showing a little mid-thigh is not fully normalised. Stylists argue that it looks good, feels comfortable and can even make you appear taller.
To wear short shorts well, context is key. Avoid formal settings or conservative company, and always wear underwear beneath them to prevent mishaps. The most versatile options include classic chino shorts, which can be dressed up or down, and sporty styles like Adidas' triple-stripe Originals, which are currently having a moment on TikTok.
For a more tailored look, Zara offers pleated short shorts with tortoiseshell buttons that resemble luxury designer pieces. Meanwhile, Sunspel provides premium cotton boxers for the underwear-as-outerwear trend, as seen at Glastonbury. If you're heading to the pool, consider swim shorts with built-in UV protection and biodegradable fabrics, many of which are available for under £100.
Outdoor enthusiasts and gorpcore fans can turn to Nike for short shorts to match their Salomon or Arc'teryx gear. With so many styles available, from sporty to tailored, there's no excuse not to join the short shorts movement this summer.
