This conversation started on BBC Breakfast. Is it acceptable for men to wear shorts to work? I was asked to give my professional opinion and the BBC took a soundbite that went out across the morning show and later on BBC News. The debate continued on BBC WM, where the question became more specific: Should men over 50 be wearing shorts?

The level of engagement this generated was remarkable. It confirmed something I’ve known for a long time: men want clarity, permission, and direction when it comes to personal style—especially in summer, when dressing smartly becomes a balancing act between staying cool and looking put together.

Let’s break it down.
Is it acceptable for men to wear shorts to work?

In short: yes, in many cases it is.

As temperatures continue to rise each year, workplace dress codes are adapting. In some countries, smart shorts are expected office wear in the heat. The logic is sound—if women can wear skirts and dresses to stay cool, why shouldn’t men have a seasonally appropriate option too?

But this isn’t a green light for gym shorts or anything with a drawstring. The key is in HOW they’re styled. If shorts are worn well—with intention, tailoring and polish—they can be entirely appropriate for the modern working environment.

The Style Standard: What Makes Shorts Work-Appropriate?

To avoid looking underdressed or unprofessional, you need to elevate the look. Here’s how:

• Fit is everything:
Look for tailored cuts. Avoid anything oversized, baggy or overly tight. The length should sit just above the knee—not halfway up the thigh, and definitely not skimming the calf. (See my blog on short shorts for fashion inspiration out side the workplace)

• Fabric matters
Cotton-twill, smart linen blends or performance fabrics offer structure and breathability. Anything too lightweight or stretchy reads as casual.

• Details make the difference
Belt loops, a flat front, discreet pockets and a turned-up hem all help a pair of shorts look polished. Avoid visible logos, drawstrings or cargo pockets.

• Finish the look properly
Balance the outfit with a smart short-sleeved shirt or knit polo. Avoid graphic tees or anything overly casual. Footwear should be considered: loafers, derbies, or clean minimal trainers keep the look elevated.

Know Your Workplace:
Not all environments are suited to shorts, no matter how hot the weather is.

Where shorts are generally not appropriate:
• Traditional law firms
• The City or corporate banking
• Ceremonial roles (e.g. funeral director)
• Formal client meetings or board presentations

In more creative, digital, or progressive industries, wearing tailored shorts can feel completely appropriate—especially if the rest of your look is refined.

Getting Over the Style Barrier

Many men struggle with the idea of wearing shorts to work—not because they’re unsure how to wear them, but because they’re not used to seeing them worn well.

Start with what you know. If you wear chinos to work, then switching to a smart pair of chino shorts is a seamless transition. It’s the same formula—just seasonally adapted.

Stick to neutral colours like navy, stone or dark olive. These shades are versatile, understated, and already familiar within most wardrobes. Navy in particular is a strong entry point—it’s the most dominant colour in men’s workwear and pairs easily with whites, greys, pinks, soft blues, tan and neutral tones.

3 Steps to Introduce Shorts into Your Summer Workwear

1. Tailoring is key:
Smart shorts should be treated like cropped trousers, not casualwear. Tailored cuts offer structure and keep the look sharp.

2. Balance your proportions:
If your shorts are streamlined, don’t pair them with an oversized top. Use fitted polos, smart short-sleeved shirts or even a cotton/lightweight blazer if your office is air-conditioned. Keeping the top half smart elevates the whole look.

3. Know your setting:
Even the smartest shorts can feel out of place in the wrong context. Dress with awareness—some meetings will still require trousers, regardless of the forecast.

Where to Buy Smart Shorts?

Here’s a curated list of brands that offer well-cut, office-appropriate shorts for different price points.

High Street (Under £40):
• M&S – Cotton Rich Chino Shorts
• UNIQLO – Smart Shorts
• Next – Slim Fit Tailored Shorts
• H&M – Regular Fit Chino Shorts
• Tu Clothing – Smart Stretch Shorts

Mid-Range (Around £100):
• Reiss – Tailored Linen Shorts
• Spoke – Hero Shorts
• Percival – Summer Shorts
• Oliver Spencer – Drawstring Shorts (tailored style)
• Baukjen – Sustainable Linen Shorts

Designer (Under £250):
• Orlebar Brown – Bulldog Smart Shorts
• Theory – Slim Tailored Shorts
• Paul Smith – Classic Fit Shorts
• Hugo Boss – Slim Fit City Shorts
• Sunspel – Riviera Shorts

For something more bespoke:
The Vintage Cut offers custom-made shorts in tailored fits with fabric and styling options to suit your exact proportions and preferences.

Can Men Over 50 Wear Shorts?

Absolutely. Age isn’t the issue—execution is. Here’s why older men should feel confident wearing shorts in the right setting:

• Style doesn’t expire
Dressing well is timeless. If the fit is sharp and the styling is intentional, it works. Men don’t want to dress younger – they want to dress better.

• Comfort and practicality count
Good style shouldn’t come at the cost of comfort. There’s no point overheating in trousers when a smarter and refined option exists.

• Confidence is what people notice
When you feel good in what you’re wearing, others pick up on it. That’s not just style – it’s authority. Shorts worn well show that you know how to dress well for the season and the situation.

Final Word:

Thirty years ago, the idea of wearing shorts to work was almost unthinkable. But workplace dress codes have evolved. Trainers are common in boardrooms. Dress codes are more relaxed—but that doesn’t mean standards should drop.

Brands like Hugo Boss performance range, and Reiss now design smart formalwear that includes tailored shorts. This is no longer a rebellious choice—it’s a smart one.

I’m a huge advocate for shorts done well. I wear them from March through to September. I work in a creative space, so I have some freedom—but what I wear is still intentional. Shorts can show you understand the assignment. When paired well, they’re not casual—they’re current.

Need Help Getting It Right?

If you’re unsure how to make shorts part of your summer workwear, or you’d like guidance on dressing smartly for the season ahead, that’s exactly what I do.

I’m The Image Coach and help busy, high-performing men sharpen their image and build wardrobes that work—without the guesswork.

🔹 Book a style consultation at philltarling.com
🔹 Follow me on Instagram @philltarling for more summer style advice
🔹 Or get in touch if you’d like a bespoke summer wardrobe edit