8.28.2008

the bermuda shorts.

for some reason, i now have this sudden fondness towards shorts.
i know the "leggy" trend in men has been around for quite some time now, yet it wasn't until yesterday that i actually wore pseudo-short shorts (cut above the knee). i've always been a tad bit conscious about my legs since i've always thought they're not long or toned enough for display. as a matter of fact, i shocked myself yesterday for having had the guts to cuff my bermudas above the knee.
photo: the Sartorialist

it never really occurred to me how the length of one's shorts is actually essential to the look that one is trying to achieve. until this moment, that is. now i know why some men prefer to wear theirs shorter than the usual Quicksilver/ Billabong cut. i see that unlike boardies, they make my legs look longer and they make my entire outfit look sleeker. which apparently means, this can help make any guy look more proportioned and less sloppy. nice, 'di ba?
the British Army in Bermuda (where the shorts first became popular). circa 1930s.

but of course i'm talking about bermuda shorts. obviously, there are different kinds available in the market. these are more tailored and can oftentimes be worn in dressy occasions. take note that unlike cargo shorts or baggy khakis, its hem can be cuffed or un-cuffed around one to two inches above the knee. that means they're really made short. so don't just fold any type of pair you have lying around your closet thinking that you can use them for this look

some inspirations:
Louis Vuitton S/S 2009
Neil Barrett S/S 2009
Versace S/S 2009 (my favorite)
Veronique Branquinho S/S 2009

this is how i wore them. what do you think?
here's a few tips if you plan to wear these shorts:
fit is of primary importance. pick a trimmer style. avoid those loose baggy ones, unless you have big muscular legs. or else you'll end up having two toothpicks hanging below your torso. for the length: just above the knee is perfect. don't go too long OR too short (well, that's another story).
i also suggest you wear them with rolled-up long-sleeves or an open jacket. believe me, you won't go wrong with that. as for footwear: loafers, slip-ons, moccasins, and other dress shoes are the most appropriate. and yeah. please don't show your socks.

2 comments:

MICHELLE said...

i actually love shorts on guys if they're nicely cut and worn well. and i've seen males pull off the short shorts thing pretty well. :p

Unknown said...

I agree, never show your socks. Any plain polo shirt is also good with bermuda shorts and a pair of chuck taylors. :)