Three Must Have Summer Plaid and Print Shorts
If you’re watching the calendar, you know that it was recently the vernal equinox—the first day of spring. That means, yes, that we have plenty of time until summer. But the weather’s getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and before you know it, summer will be here—whether you’re ready or not.
Why not be ready for it?
If you want to make sure that you not only have shorts that fit, but shorts that are as “in” as anything you’ll see out there this summer, then you’ll want to brush up on your plaids and prints specifically. That means knowing what you’re looking at when you shop these items. Luckily, we’ve put together a few quick definitions that will help you navigate the world of summer shorts:
Madras: A Perfect Way to Get Wild
There’s nothing quite like madras to show off your colorful side. Not only is madras full of unique colors as a matter of principle, but the very design of the pattern is, well, a little random. It has the look of a sewn-together quilt. If you’ve ever seen a heritage quilt that had new patches sewn in every generation, then you know exactly what this means. Better yet, here’s a perfect example: Vintage Patch Short Navy
Notice how madras looks something like organized chaos; it may seem hectic until you zoom in on it and see the repeating patterns. It’s the perfect way to add a splash of color to your wardrobe—and a double helping of fun as well.
Jacquard: Organized Chaos
If you want something a little more understated but no less fun, then Jacquard weaving might be right for you. Specifically, our Vintage Jacquard Blue.
Jacquard weaving actually refers to a process of weaving, but it’s also a term used to describe the same essential patterns. What distinguishes it are repeating geometric shapes that, when added together, give the entire piece a feeling of organization—think of it like a plaid that you can wear in the summertime.
Tropical: The Missing Link
If you want to look more “vacation” and less “staycation,” then it’s best that you think about a tropical pattern instead. These Vintage Jams in Yellow serve as a perfect example of how tropical patterns look: they include images of familiar tropical symbols like palm trees repeated in something of a wild, brightly-colored design. The end result is something that evokes “vacation” like nothing else you can wear.
You can pull off the tropical look without looking like a “tourist,” too. Keep the socks out when you wear sandals, try to pair your tropical shorts with something a little more muted, like a monochromatic polo, and watch the compliments roll in.
Whether you opt for Madras, Jacquard, or Tropical prints this summer, you can be sure that you know what you’re talking about when it comes to your summertime shorts. There’s only one question left: which one will you pick?