Shorts are a menswear item fraught with peril. It's statistically near impossible to wear them without breaking some unwritten style rule in the process.
In reality anything goes - any form of short can actually look stylish provided the rest of your outfit's on point (except for camo shorts which officially died in 2006 along with cardigans and Crocs).
Here's how to wear them without people trying to take secret photos of you so they can laugh about it with their friends.
Note: it is also advisable to read this article instead of Googling 'men in shorts' because it turns out there's a lot of Tumblrs dedicated to the matter - including a lot more erect penises than we expected.
Shorts + a simple white tee = a failsafe summer outfit
Team with luxe sportswear for a get-up that works on and off your bike
Keep the look even more relaxed with a jumper tied round your waist
Or smarten things up with a nautical touch
Take inspiration from vintage tailoring
Don't be afraid to make a statement
Add a straw fedora and a pair of shades for instant Cuban gangster
Footwear wise you can't go wrong with shorts and plimsolls
When you're on the beach or poolside, anything goes
But remember, there is such a thing as too short
A Man’s Guide On How to Wear Shorts
Length(01 of07)
Open Image ModalThe golden rule for men’s shorts length is an inch or two above the knee. For the average guy, they should be straight and appropriately tailored. (credit:Instagram/alexanderkenton)
Denim Cut-Offs(02 of07)
Open Image ModalThe '70s trend may be in full bloom for 2015, but denim shorts are rarely flattering on men. It’s understandable; going DIY "Project Runway" on a worn out pair of jeans is a good way to save some money and the planet. Unfortunately, cut-offs are generally too short, too long or too tight -- especially when you make them out of an old pair of skinny jeans. They’re most certainly too informal for events, a date or work, so maybe just reserve them for lazing around the cottage or mowing the lawn. (credit:Instagram/cass_45)
Formality(03 of07)
Open Image ModalFrom Commes des Garcons to Topman, fashion houses are offering a growing variety of short suits. If you don’t want to sink some funds into one of those though, just make sure your shorts are an appropriate colour (i.e. not camo or cargo khaki) and pair them with a button-up or polo. You could even add a cardigan for extra preppy pizzazz. (credit:Instagram/jaimetoutcheztoi)
Colour(04 of07)
Open Image ModalUnless you’re serving in active combat or a retiree, avoid camo and khaki. Otherwise, all is fair in love and shorts. (credit:Instagram/alkarus)
Socks And Sandals(05 of07)
Open Image ModalWho Wears Short Shorts?(06 of07)
Open Image ModalBermudas(07 of07)
Open Image ModalFrom Acne to Zara, the hottest menswear shorts trend of 2015 has been bermudas. They go below the knee and have a wide, A-line flare. It seems for 2015, it’s go big or go home. (credit:Instagram/sirsargent)