When summer comes with its scorching temperatures, we desperately want to lighten up: the shirt gets replaced by a t-shirt or a lighter linen version while pants get shorter. And that's where problems begin, because adult and office-friendly shorts are not easily found. Searching online, we instantly come across a large selection labeled here "shorts" and there "bermudas." We then wonder what differentiates them. For many, these are two words to describe a single product. But there is a real difference between them. We'll explain.
THE SHORT
While shorts or "short pants" were originally a signature piece of the aristocracy, this is no longer the case today. At the time, wearing shorts was synonymous with distinction and chic. Later, athletes adopted shorts for their outfits. And finally, with the introduction of paid leave, shorts became popular across all social classes to become the vacationer's summer uniform.
The main difference between shorts and bermudas is the length: shorts stop at mid-thigh while bermudas come closer to the knee. Given their origins, shorts are often considered leisure wear. In addition to the style of shorts chosen, it's the other pieces that will influence the final look of your outfit. Chino shorts with a shirt and loafers give you an ideal outfit for a chic seaside cocktail. For a hike, cargo shorts with a t-shirt and sports shoes will be practical and appropriate for the look.
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THE BERMUDA
Like many pieces in the male wardrobe, bermudas are among those inspired by the military world. Because it was British soldiers who imagined and named them while seeking to adapt their uniforms to the climate of the Bermuda archipelago in the 19th century. N.B. In English, Bermudas is called "bermuda."
Since bermudas are longer than shorts, they stop at knee level, they can feel a bit less vacation and leisure-like. It's kind of the adult version of mid-thigh shorts, being more covering and less "beachy." Paired with a shirt or polo, you can easily look elegantly dressed without getting too hot.
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WHICH SHORTS FOR WHICH OCCASION?
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The Dressy Ones
Chino shorts: these are probably the most common ones we see. Like chino pants, their major advantage is that they go with everything. Whether with a shirt or polo for an elegant look, or with a simple t-shirt for a casual look, chino shorts work with everything. To give a more casual side or simply to manage the length of your shorts, you can make hems.
Linen shorts: linen is the star material of summer and shorts are the signature piece. So, when you combine the two, and add a flowing shirt and hat, you get the chic vacationer look for summer evenings. Linen shorts will be the lightest of shorts, but also one of the most elegant due to their fineness and softness. Tip: if you choose them in a cotton blend, they'll be less prone to wrinkling.
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The Casual Ones
Denim shorts: perhaps a bit less common after adolescence, but denim remains an essential material for casual shorts. They sport a somewhat more streetwear look when worn with a t-shirt and sneakers for example.
Cargo shorts: these are very practical and rather loose shorts that will allow you to go on adventures empty-handed but with full pockets. They guarantee certain comfort and ease in your movements. However, if you opt for cargo shorts, wear them with simpler and more fitted pieces so as not to overload your look.
Swim shorts: the essential for your seaside vacations. And if you choose a swimsuit with a sober style that's not too short, you can pass it off as shorts, but only on vacation please.
If there are so many different men's shorts models, it's so that everyone can find what suits them. Long, short, fitted, loose, linen, denim, it's up to you to choose the one that fits you best. If we had to end this article with one last piece of advice, it would be not to choose shorts that are too short like Tony Britts, fitness instructor from the 1980s, and capri pants are a categorical and definitive no-go. Hope this helps with your choices.