I was interviewed recently by The Metro for a feature on the rise of Speedos and short shorts. It’s a Summer 2025 trend more and more men are adopting.
They asked for my professional opinion as The Image Coach and Personal Stylist—is this trend wearable, or just a gimmick?
It’s a great topic. I love talking about menswear, and especially how to integrate trend-led fashion confidently into everyday wardrobes. Because that’s what real style is—knowing how to wear something well, not just what’s trending.
So I’ve turned my interview and knowledge into a proper style guide—showing you exactly how to wear Speedos and short shorts without looking ridiculous.
Speedos and short shorts are no longer just for Aussie lifeguards, high divers, Marbella dads or 70s tennis players. This summer, the brave, the stylish—and yes, the well-prepared —are bringing back bold the tighter fits.
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Read on if you’re ready to ditch baggy shorts and show some thigh. If not, you’ll be roasting in oversized cargo shorts while the rest of us look like we know what we’re doing.
What Are Speedos and Short Shorts?
Speedos – Technically, a brand name, are snug-fitting swim briefs. Often referred to as:
• Budgie smugglers
• Nutcrackers
• Banana hammocks
• Smugglers
• Snapbacks
• Lycra grapefruits
They are minimal coverage, and maximum confidence. Ideal for pool, beach and a little tan line.
Short Shorts – Tailored, leg-baring shorter that regular shorts with a 3–5” inside leg. These aren’t gym PE kits or novelty items. Done right, they are a modern style statement.
Why Are Speedos and Short in style?
For some cultures they have never been out of fashion – but for everyone it time to catching up. Here’s some reasons why.
• Leg day deserves airtime – Even if you’ve skipped a few.
• Retro is back – Think 70s footballers, Bond’s blue trunks, and your dad’s old photos.
• The fit is flattering – These styles suit more men than you think. Just takes confidence to pull off.
• Designers love them – Seen across fashion weeks, holiday edits and high street rails.
How to Choose the Right Fit for Your Body Shape:
Tall men – you may be tall but short shorts can balance proportions especially if your body is longer than your legs. A shorter cut visually lengthens your legs.
Slim or athletic – 3” shorts or a well-fitted Speedo works well.
Broader or chunky builds – Try 5” shorts or a structured swim brief that gives support without squeeze.
Short – Shorter the shorts, the longer the leg looks – this optic will make you look taller.
Style advice – How to Wear Speedos.
Speedos look great around the pool or on a beach. Not for brunch.
Pair with:
• A crisp, open linen shirt
• A plain vest or fitted tee
• A decent pair of sliders or flipflops
• Cheeky charm (non-negotiable)
To style it right – Avoid:
• Loud logos
• Jewellery overload
• Socks with sandals
Confidence is the key accessory here. Grooming is essential to complete the look.
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How to Wear Short Shorts and look stylish.
Short shorts on the street? Yes—if you keep it sharp.
• Tuck in a T-shirt
• Add a Cuban collar shirt or unstructured overshirt
• Finish with canvas trainers or loafers
• Earthy tone footwear.
• Belt-up even if they are short!
What Shoes to Wear With Speedos and Short Shorts
Pool and Beach:
• Birkenstock-style sandals – laid-back and supportive.
• Clean sliders – sporty, simple
• Flip-flops – basic but beach-appropriate
• Crocs – divisive but popular. Thanks, TikTok.
Out and About:
• Canvas trainers – cool and classic
• Espadrilles – relaxed summer style
• Leather sandals – elevated warm-weather dressing
• Dr Martens with a wedge sole – bold and edgy (and surprisingly flattering)
• Clogs are a stylish slide on off option.
How to Groom Before Wearing Short Shorts or Speedos
No one expects you to look airbrushed. But:
• Tidy up body hair—trim, you don’t have to shave.
• Moisturise dry knees and shins
• A light tan (real or fake) helps everything look better
• SPF is your best mate—don’t burn what you’ve revealed.
Here’s a list of Speedos and Swim Briefs to Buy This Summer
Classic & Functional:
• Speedo
• Arena
Mid-Range & Statement:
• Budgy Smuggler – fun, bold prints
• Solid & Striped – playful luxury
• CDLP – minimal, monochrome Swedish design
Luxe & Designer:
• Orlebar Brown – tailored for the beach
• Vilebrequin – Riviera luxury
• Tom Ford – for the brave and bold
Indie/Brands:
• Sundeck
• Todd Sanfield
• Dandy Del Mar
• Hand Jones
• KVRT STVFF
• AussieBum
The Best Men’s Short Shorts for Summer 2025
High Street:
• COS
• Uniqlo
• Arket
• Zara
Smart Casual / Elevated Everyday:
• Wax London
• Sunspel
• Percival
Luxury & Designer:
• Reiss
• The Resort Co
• Versace
• Mr Marvis
• Oliver Spencer
• Modus Vivendi
• Paul Smith
• Jacquemus
• AMI Paris
• Ron Dorff
Is There a Cut-Off Age for Speedos?
In short—no. Not unless you’re letting fear dress you.
In many cultures, Speedos are the norm for men of all ages. From southern Europe to South America, no one bats an eye. The UK might lag a little behind, but that doesn’t mean you should.
Age isn’t the cut-off. Confidence is.
If you feel good, look good, and wear them well—crack on. What holds most men back isn’t their birthday, it’s self-doubt. But the older we get, the more we tend to grow into meaningful, grounded confidence. You know your body. You know your style. If Speedos suit your vibe, wear them proudly.
This isn’t about clinging to youth—it’s about owning your presence. There’s something undeniably stylish about a man who’s grown into himself and still shows up well-groomed, well-dressed, and unapologetically himself.
So, no. There’s no age limit—just a confidence one. And the good news? That’s something you can always grow.
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Book a 1:1 consultation or browse my services for fast, no-fuss advice tailored to you.
Whether it’s poolwear, workwear or weekend dressing—I can raise your game, not your stress levels.
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