THE JOURNAL
3 MINUTE READ
7 Classic Swim Shorts Sure To Make A Splash
Words by Lucy Kingett
31 May 2024
Board shorts, budgie smugglers, tight trunks… there’s a world of men’s swimwear out there. But, in our opinion, if you want to look chic on your vacation, a pair of classic, well-fitting swim shorts with a length that hits mid-thigh or just above the knee is the style to go for. They’re flattering, suitable for most occasions (light beach games or lunch at the beach taverna included) and available in a multitude of designs, from timeless and understated to playful and patterned. In fact, a well-chosen pair will help your holidays drift along in a perfect, stylish summer haze.
01. The Orlebar Brown floral shorts
Aloha shirt? Say hello to aloha shorts. But not the kind your dad might have worn in the 1970s. This pair from Orlebar Brown comes crafted in a sleek, slim fit, with scope for adjustment thanks to pull waist tabs. They are cut from recycled shell that has been printed with a floral illustration in a summery, but not gaudy combination of white and brushstrokes of warm red.
02. The Dries Van Noten shady palm pair
Proving that tropical prints have range, these by Dries Van Noten are as dusky and elegant as one might expect from the brand. The repeated palm print and ombre effect bring to mind shadows on white sand or perhaps dappled moonlight. Whatever the effect on you, however, their elasticated waist, drawstring and effortless mid length will make them a pair you reach for again and again.
03. The easy Brunello Cucinelli shorts
For fans of the brand, it will come as no surprise that Brunello Cucinelli produce some of the best-quality swim shorts out there. If you’re after a super classic pair that will never go out of style, you can’t get much better than these, which are exclusive to MR PORTER. The quick-drying shell comes in a range of shades and the comfortable, slightly looser fit will suit almost anyone.
04. The TOM FORD short shorts
If your ideal summer includes lounging on your yacht off the coast of Cap Ferrat, may we suggest TOM FORD’s sultry, slim-fitting shorts with a racy short leg? Whether or not that dream actually comes to pass will be of little importance once these are on, as their navy piping, gold hardware and slick zip back pockets will imbue any backdrop with sophisticated Riviera style.
05. The tropical tan Canali pair
Another reworking of the tropical print, here formalwear favourites Canali have gone for block beige on white, making the hibiscus motif almost abstract when seen from a distance. A straightforward cut with drawstring waist and flap-closure back pocket makes these a practical everyday choice for pool, beach or even the back garden.
06. The timeless Loro Piana shorts
A little less Hawaii and a little more Hamptons (or, given the brand’s heritage, perhaps Capri), Loro Piana’s Bay shorts feature a perennially popular Bengal stripe in three possible colourways. A slightly longer leg and roomier cut suit the traditional styling, and a handy back pocket and cord loop on the front mean you can keep all your necessary beach bits to hand.
07. The smart ZEGNA pair
Sometimes you need your swim shorts to do a bit of heavy lifting out of the pool, too. If you know you’ll be spending a lot of time at beach bars, shoreline restaurants or exploring, this pair from ZEGNA might be the right fit for you. Meticulously tailored from quick-drying shell, they have a mesh lining, zip and tab closure, contrasting waist tabs and three pockets.
