How to Buy Men’s Shorts for Different Body Types
To many people, shorts are the “easy” part of the wardrobe—the items you can buy without much thought. But like people, shorts come in all shapes and sizes. If you want to look your best, it’s important to take some time and get the pair that’s right for you. And while a good pair of shorts might seem like a slam dunk purchase, it’s important to consider your specific body type when shopping for the shorts that will best flatter your look.
Men’s Big And Tall Shorts Style Tips
Those with Big and Tall body types know exactly how buying clothes can feel. In the store, it can feel as if you’ve come from a different dimension, often with little options for men’s big and tall shorts. Even if you size up to make sure your clothes will cover you, the balance of the clothes may never seem to complement your body shape. Let’s end all of that. Here’s what you need to look for in a pair of shorts:
- Proportion, proportion, proportion. Pairing a baggy Triple-XL shirt with Snappers? The combination of baggy and snug probably isn’t going to give you the visual proportions you’re looking for. Above all, strive for a sense of balance between your shorts and the rest of your outfit. Try upgrading to the longer Classic Vintage Twill 9” Shorts to create a better match.
- Draw your attention to the right places. Short and stocky? Go with a sockless (or no-show sock) look in order to make your legs appear longer. Keep in mind which body parts you’re emphasizing at all times until you get a feel of which outfits tend to look better on you.
- Don’t overcompensate. Wearing clothes too baggy or long may feel comfortable, but sometimes it only accentuates the very attributes you’d like to minimize. Don’t buy an extra-long shirt and leave it untucked when you’re tall—it only extends the visual appearance of your torso.
- Don’t fret about color. Phrases like “black is slimming” and “look for vertical/horizontal stripes” tend to apply more to the upper portion of your wardrobe. You don’t have to wear black shorts for a slimming effect, for example—so be free to choose the colors that best complement your current wardrobe.
Buying Men’s Shorts When You’re Short
Although the clothing situation may be different than with men’s big and tall shorts, the same principles hold true if you’re a little on the short side. In general, you’ll want to use shorts that create a sense of proportion. Here are a few tips:
- In this case, the Snappers will expose more leg and help visually elongate them if that’s what you think your outfit needs. Combine this with the no sock look mentioned above for an even greater long-leg effect.
- If you don’t want your shorts that short, you should still think about 5-7” inseams when purchasing. The Classic Vintage Twill 7” Shorts offer a ton of flexibility and come in a wide range of colors.
Perhaps the most important tip of all? Browse our wide selection of men’s Vintage shorts to find which match your body type and your sense of style.