How to Wear Shorts Like an Adult
"I haven't worn pants in five years." A professional shorts-wearer on how to ditch your pants this summer.
Like it or not, jean shorts are back. We at Valet. are somewhat divided on the subject, but I say let your freak flag fly man—and nothing has more of a DGAF attitude than a pair of jorts. And while there are plenty of bad examples out there, modern-day cool guys like Shia LaBeouf and Pharrell Williams are examples of how to pull them off with a shot of 2017 style. And believe me when I tell you, that once you try a pair, you won't want to go back. Because jorts are undoubtedly the sturdiest, most un-stainable, and manliest shorts ever created. Think about those lightweight cotton shorts that just don't sit right on your body. Or the ones that stain as soon as sit on a park bench. That doesn't happen with a pair of denim cut-offs.
Of course, there are ground rules if you're going to be wearing such a divisive garment. It should go without saying, but these shorts are strictly off-duty shorts. No office dress code is that casual. Secondly, the length of the shorts is key—too short and they run the risk of looking ridiculous; too long and you'll look sloppy (and they will make your legs appear shorter). Finally, jean shorts are still a high-level style risk, so don't wear them with other loud garments. Stick with toned down menswear staples like plain T-shirts, minimalist sneakers and a classic pair of shades. Relaxed pieces that complement, not compete with, your new favorite denim shorts.
Upcycle a pair of old jeans and make your own jorts by cutting them off and properly fraying the edges. Here's how to do it.