THE JOURNAL
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Splash Out: Six Of This Summer’s Best Swim Shorts
Words by Ms Molly Isabella Smith
3 August 2021
On the occasions that a man needs to wear swim shorts, rarely is looking his most stylish a primary concern. Concerns, in general, are supposed to be pushed to one side when you’re at the beach, pool or lido. However, as someone who approaches their wardrobe with some care, putting some effort into picking the perfect pair will make you feel more confident and more carefree. Scroll down for six suitcase-worthy contenders.
01.
By the pool
If you want swim shorts that scream “oh I do like to be beside the seaside”, a striped pair is the way to go. These ones are from New York-based brand Solid & Striped, which, as you might have guessed, specialises in this sort of thing. The quick-drying chambray fabric will come in handy, too.
02.
The longer-length pair
Longer swim shorts are ideal if you want a little extra coverage or protection from UV rays. They’re also the preferred choice if you’ve got a day of watersports planned. This Apex pair is from Mr Kelly Slater’s surf brand Outerknown, so you know they’re up to spec performance-wise.
03.
The tailored pair
Looking smart isn’t a prerequisite for the beach, but the benefit of picking a tailored pair of swim shorts, such as TOM FORD’s, is that you can wear them out of the water, too. With the right shirt, no beachside restaurant would turn you away. The adjustable side tabs – a detail borrowed from classic suit trousers – ensure a perfect fit.
04.
The standout pair
In theory, they might be up to the task. But some swim shorts aren’t really made for swimming. They’re much more suitable for looking particularly stylish while you’re relaxing by the pool or sunbathing on the beach. Gucci’s head-turning rainbow-striped monogrammed pair fall firmly into that category.
05.
The tie-dyed pair
There are few things more summery than tie-dye, but the moody, marbled effect on this pair from SMR Days makes the psychedelic print a touch more refined than usual. If you feel like wearing them out of the pool, the brand also makes a co-ordinating shirt.
06.
The recycled pair
More and more brands are turning to Econyl, a regenerated nylon fabric made from recycled marine waste that uses no new raw materials. Forget the idea that you’ll be sacrificing style points by opting for something more planet-friendly. This pair from True Tribe, a Paris and Pakistan-based label, comes in a sophisticated olive green shade.