When you want to look good it’s important to be aware of proportion and length as well as fashion! Different colours, cuts and fabrics will look different on each person, which means that you should work out what works for your body type before you hit ‘buy’.
4″ Inseam Shorts
These are typically found for athletic shorts and beach trunks, and they tend to work best if you’re of a smaller stature and have a slimmer physique. Best worn a little loose!
5″ to 7″ Inseam Shorts
If you love showing off your quads, then the 5″ inseam will work well for you and fall mid-thigh – ideal for men in the 5’10” to 6’2″ bracket looking for a preppy look, and ideal for more athletic or slim physiques.
9″ to 11″ Inseam Shorts
These are great if you’re well over six feet tall, and a cuff at the bottom will help to make you look a little shorter if you wish! If you have thin legs, then consider a tapered style so that they don’t look too loose.
Top tip – if you’re not sure which mens Ralph Lauren shorts to choose, then go for a pair where the shorts finish around two inches above the knee.
Body Type Considerations
Other things to consider are the length of your torso and leg width as well as your overall build. Regular builds tend to have lean legs and can wear most styles successfully. Larger men may want to choose longer inseams and stretch for a good fit.
Athletic types can pull off smaller inseam shorts and form-fitting styles, and skinny guys also look great in the 5-7 inseam range. You can find examples at EJ Menswear.
Colours
Think about colours too. Denim shorts always look good, as do smart khakis, linen shorts in neutral or navy shades and smart black shorts. White shorts can look great with a tan, but approach bright shades with caution (or humour) or reserve them for the surfboard and beach!
Remember too to consider the top that you will be wearing with your shorts and plan your entire outfit in the mirror for the most confidence before you step out.
