In 2025, short shorts for men have gone from a niche trend to a mainstream summer staple. Whether you’re heading to a beach club, a city rooftop, or simply dressing for warm weather in the city, men’s short shorts are having a major moment.
Gone are the days of long, baggy cargo shorts. Today’s styles are cleaner, more fitted, and unapologetically above the knee. From tailored linen styles to sporty numbers and retro throwbacks, short shorts are back — and they’re here to stay.
Here’s your ultimate guide to wearing short shorts this year, with styling tips, key trends, and shopping suggestions to help you pull them off with confidence.
Why Short Shorts Are Trending in 2025
Fashion has moved towards gender-fluid silhouettes, bold proportions, and confident styling — and shorter shorts are part of that evolution. Influencers, celebrities and athletes alike have embraced the look, with designers like Prada, Jacquemus, and Wales Bonner all showcasing thigh-baring shorts in recent collections.
Comfort also plays a big role. Short shorts offer more airflow, easier movement, and a lighter feel during hot summer months. They’re practical, stylish, and versatile — three things every modern wardrobe should embrace.
How Short Is Too Short?
There’s no single rule, but a general guide is this: your inseam should sit between 4 and 7 inches.
- 4″–5″ inseam: For a bolder, fashion-forward look
- 6″–7″ inseam: More classic, relaxed, and wearable for everyday
If your shorts hit mid-thigh, you’re in the right zone. Anything lower, and you risk entering awkward dad-short territory. Too high, and you’re heading into swimwear or gym-specific zones.
Key Styles of Men’s Short Shorts in 2025
Let’s break down the best types of short shorts to consider this year.
1. Tailored Shorts
Best for: City breaks, summer events, rooftop bars
Tailored shorts are clean-cut, structured and smart. Think of them as warm-weather replacements for chinos. They often come with pleats, belt loops, and a slightly tapered leg.
Style tip: Pair with a crisp white shirt, a Cuban collar top, or a polo. Finish with loafers or minimal trainers for a sharp, modern look.
Best brands: Reiss, COS, Percival, Uniqlo
2. Linen Shorts
Best for: Beach holidays, staycations, heatwaves
Linen is breathable, light and perfect for high temperatures. These shorts typically have a looser, relaxed fit and often feature a drawstring waistband.
Style tip: Keep things casual with a linen shirt or relaxed cotton tee. Match tones for a co-ord feel or mix neutrals for versatility.
Best brands: Arket, Luca Faloni, H&M Premium, Wax London
3. Athletic Shorts
Best for: Sporty looks, streetwear styling, gym-to-street
Athletic shorts have made a huge comeback thanks to the retro sportswear revival. Think vintage-style running shorts, mesh basketball styles, or football-inspired training cuts.
Style tip: Combine with a sleeveless vest, zip-up track jacket or boxy T-shirt. Socks and retro trainers complete the look.
Best brands: Nike, Adidas, Sporty & Rich, JD Sports
4. Denim Shorts
Best for: Festivals, casual days, vintage vibes
Denim shorts have returned with a slimmer fit and shorter cut than the oversized versions of the early 2000s. Raw hems and faded washes work best.
Style tip: Pair with a loose-fit graphic tee or a camp collar shirt. Add accessories like sunglasses, rings or a bucket hat.
Best brands: Levi’s, Weekday, Zara, Bershka
5. Swim Shorts (Styled as Daywear)
Best for: Poolside-to-party, holiday dressing
Modern swim shorts are no longer just for swimming. With quick-dry materials, clean prints and internal lining, they work well as all-day shorts too.
Style tip: Match with a short-sleeve linen shirt and leather sandals. Add a crossbody bag for a practical yet polished holiday look.
Best brands: CDLP, Orlebar Brown, Sunspel
Styling Tips: How to Wear Short Shorts With Confidence
Not sure how to make short shorts work for you? Follow these simple styling tips:
✅ Balance proportions
If your shorts are fitted and short, consider a looser shirt or oversized T-shirt to balance the silhouette.
✅ Keep it clean
Trim leg hair if you prefer a groomed look. Moisturise and add a little sun protection — thighs often get neglected!
✅ Socks or no socks?
Both work. For a sporty look, go for crew socks with trainers. For a cleaner style, opt for invisible socks and loafers or sandals.
✅ Own it
Confidence is key. If you wear them like they belong on you, they will.
Who’s Wearing Them: Celebrity Inspiration
Still need convincing? Here are a few high-profile men embracing short shorts in style:
- Paul Mescal – The king of GAA shorts and sporty confidence
- Harry Styles – Known for pairing high-cut shorts with vintage band tees and pearl necklaces
- Timothée Chalamet – Frequently wears short tailored shorts with Cuban collars
- Idris Elba – Shows how to wear short shorts with laid-back tailoring and luxury sandals
Where to Buy Men’s Short Shorts in the UK
Looking to shop? Here are the best high street and designer destinations:
- High Street: Uniqlo, COS, Arket, Zara, H&M
- Mid-Range: Reiss, Percival, Wax London, Folk
- Designer: Jacquemus, Wales Bonner, Orlebar Brown, Casablanca
- Sportswear: Nike, Adidas, Champion, Gymshark
Final Thoughts
In 2025, men’s short shorts are not just a passing trend — they’re a smart, stylish summer essential. They offer freedom, comfort and versatility across multiple looks and settings. Whether you’re dressing up for a sunny city day or keeping it relaxed on holiday, there’s a style of short shorts for every wardrobe.
The key is fit, proportion and confidence. Start with a safe 6-inch inseam and work your way up — or down — as your style evolves. Short shorts are bold, sure. But wear them well, and they’re one of the most flattering and fashion-forward pieces you can own.
So go on — show some leg.