Menswear writer Scott Da Silva-Wells has identified the one shorts mistake men keep making: choosing the wrong fit and length for their body type. Writing for Metro, he explains that a great pair of shorts can make or break a summer outfit, and that the right fit can make legs look longer, balance proportions and smarten up an outfit, while the wrong pair can have the opposite effect.
Fit and Length Guidelines
Da Silva-Wells advises that shorts should skim the leg rather than be tight or hug it. Unless an intentional oversized or relaxed vibe is the goal, baggy styles should be avoided as they create the illusion of larger legs. He recommends most men opt for a 7-inch inseam, which flatters most men's leg length and is suitable for a range of events from everyday outfits to holidays, city breaks and BBQs. For particularly tall men, a longer length is advised.
For those who prefer shorts to sit higher, 5-inch inseams are recommended, especially for athletic or muscular legs, or for men with shorter legs as they create the illusion of longer proportions. These can be paired with oversized shirts or boxy T-shirts for a cool, modern edge. Nine-inch inseams are most suited to taller men who prefer more coverage, landing just above the knee and creating a more classic silhouette. When shorts start covering the knee, they can visually shorten the leg.
Best Linen and Chino Shorts
Linen is highlighted as one of the ultimate fabrics for warmer temperatures, being lightweight and breathable. Da Silva-Wells recommends styling linen shorts with a coordinating linen shirt, a knitted polo top, and espadrilles or Birkenstock sandals. Specific picks include the Uniqlo Linen Blend Easy Shorts in brown for £19.90, Next Ecru White Belted Cotton Linen Blend 7 Inch Shorts for £32, and M&S Cotton Linen Blend Stretch Shorts for £18.
Chino shorts are described as smart-casual heroes, perfect for garden parties, summer office days, and dinners out. Recommended options include River Island Pink Slim Fit Stretch Belted Chino Shorts for £32, Tu Khaki Chino Shorts for £15, and Matalan Light Blue Regular Fit Chino Shorts for £15.
Denim, Cargo and Sporty Shorts
Denim shorts have evolved with various shades, styles and designs. Da Silva-Wells recommends boohooMAN Relaxed Laser Printed Denim Shorts for £35, Levi 501 Original Shorts for £60, and Timberland Denim Shorts for Men in Dark Blue for £37.50 (was £75). Cargo shorts have been reinvented with cleaner, more streamlined styles, including Next Blue Vintage Stretch Cotton Rich Cargo Shorts for £28, H&M Regular Fit Cargo Shorts for £22.99, and White Stuff Halsall Organic Cargo Shorts for £55.
Sporty shorts are having a moment in 2026, inspired by Harry Styles and Pedro Pascal. Da Silva-Wells recommends adidas Originals Three Stripe Shorts in Red for £39.99 (was £45), Umbro UO Exclusive Deep Red Checkerboard Shorts for £24 (was £40), and Superdry Monogram Shorts for £44.99.
Styling Tips
Da Silva-Wells offers an extra styling tip: if shorts are bold, keep the top half simple, avoiding two bold colours or prints fighting against one another. He emphasises that shorts should always end above the knee, slim the thighs rather than squeeze them, and ultimately make the wearer feel comfortable. Trends come and go, but if the fit is right, the shorts will be reached for summer after summer.
