The versatility of shorts has skyrocketed them to being one of the most essential elements in contemporary fashion. The modern-day short can be styled into casual summer outfits, work/play outfits, or semi-formal outfits, depending on what you’re looking for in an outfit. Hence, virtually all lifestyles, equipment types, and occasions can be complemented by one of the many different types of shorts that are currently available.
If you consider yourself a fashionista, clothing retailer, or clothing manufacturer, being familiar with the various types of shorts will allow you to select those that correspond with what is currently popular and wanted by consumers.
Over the years, types of short trousers have evolved from simple casual garments into essential wardrobe staples for both men and women. Designers now offer a wide variety of styles, fabrics, and fits, from tailored chino shorts to athletic running shorts and stylish denim options.
In this guide, we’ll explore all types of shorts, their features, popular fashion trends, and how to choose the right style for different body types and seasons.
What Are Shorts?
Shorts are an item of clothing used to cover the upper leg and waist area, while exposing some part of the leg (between 0″-12″). Shorts are shorter than trousers or jeans in length, ending at or above the knee. As such, shorts are particularly suited for warm (hot) weather and for activities that require a lot of physical exertion/movement.
Shorts were traditionally worn primarily for athletic recreation and informal occasions; however, today they can be classified into five different categories: casual shorts, sport shorts, swim trunks (swim shorts), lounge shorts, and formal shorts. Both men and women now wear shorts in a variety of contexts, from typical casual everyday street style to trend-setting fashion.
Because of this diversity, the fashion industry now recognizes dozens of types of shorts for men and women, each designed for specific purposes such as comfort, mobility, style, or functionality.
The Most Popular Types of Shorts in Fashion
The fashion industry includes a wide range of shorts, each offering unique styling options. Some styles remain timeless classics, while others emerge as seasonal trends.
Denim Shorts (Jean Shorts)
Denim shorts, often called jorts, are among the most popular types of jean shorts worldwide. The shorts are made with durable denim material and typically have a more casual style, but there are variations of the shorts, like distressed, frayed, hem, and high-waisted denim shorts. Denim shorts have been a very common type of streetwear fashion as well as summer outfits for both men and women.
Due to the variety of styles available, it is easy to combine women’s denim shorts with a crop top, a blouse, or an oversized t-shirt
Chino Shorts
Chino shorts offer a clean, tailored appearance and are made from lightweight cotton twill fabric. They originated from military uniforms and later became a staple in modern casual menswear.
These types of men’s shorts strike the perfect balance between casual and smart style. They are often worn with polo shirts, button-down shirts, or lightweight blazers, making them suitable for semi-formal occasions.
Bermuda Shorts
Bermuda shorts are knee-length shorts that are more stylish and sophisticated than many other types of shorts (like shorter types of shorts). They are considered a classic type of short that are able to be worn by males and females.
Bermuda shorts are also often used in professional/business casual environments in warmer climates because they go to the knee. They are by far one of the most versatile types of shorts for both guys and gals who want a little longer fit.
Cargo Shorts
Cargo shorts are known for their large pockets and relaxed fit. Originally designed for military use, these shorts offer practicality and durability.
They are a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and travelers because the extra pockets provide space for essentials. Cargo shorts remain one of the most recognizable different types of shorts men commonly wear.
Athletic or Running Shorts
The design of athletic shorts has greatly influenced the way athletes move and perform. In men’s and women’s styles, like most shorts, athletic shorts tend to be made from lighter-weight materials and breathable fabrics (typically made from nylon or polyester).
A very popular athletic short style is the dolphin short, which features a curved hem and side slits for added range of motion when exercising. Athletic shorts are often worn by runners, in gym workouts, while training for sports, or simply by individuals leading an active lifestyle.
Booty Shorts
Booty shorts are extremely short and form-fitting shorts designed primarily for fashion or dancewear. They are among the most recognizable types of booty shorts and are commonly worn in sports, cheerleading, and performance outfits. These styles highlight the legs and waistline, making them popular in fashion and athletic wear.
Skorts
Skorts feature both a skirt component as well as a half-pant (or short) component, and therefore are versatile as well as stylish; a comfortable style that provides women an option for the appearance of a skirt along with ample room for movement.
Boxer Shorts
While boxer shorts are mostly used as a type of underwear for men, they’ve since become very much associated with being casual home wear and sleepwear. Boxer shorts provide maximum comfort all day long thanks to their loose fit and breathable materials.Â
There are several types of boxer shorts available: Regular Loose-Fit Boxers – Classic Type, Shorter Stretch Boxers (Made from Stretchy Fabric), Athletic Fit Boxers (Intended Only for Sports), and Lounge Print Boxers (Combining Style and Comfort).
These variations highlight the diversity within the types of boxer shorts available today. Similarly, the types of men’s boxer shorts can differ in waistband style, length, fabric composition, and fit, allowing individuals to choose options that offer the right balance of comfort, breathability, and support.
Swim Shorts
Swim shorts are specifically designed for water activities such as swimming, surfing, and beach sports. These types of swim shorts are typically made from lightweight, quick-dry materials like polyester or nylon, which help keep the wearer comfortable both in and out of the water.Â
Some swimwear styles include mesh linings to enhance airflow and provide support when moving about while swimming or doing other activities in the water. There are three different styles of swim brands that are popular include: Boardshorts (longer and typically worn by surfers), shorter trunk style suits that are more tailored for swimming, and hybrid swimwear that will be able to easily transition from swimwear to casual clothes in your day-to-day life.Â
Because of their practicality and usefulness, these are deemed must-have items for spending time on the beach, at the pool, or traveling during the summer months.
Famous Types of Shorts for Women
The fashion industry offers an extensive range of types of shorts for women, designed to suit different occasions and body shapes. Some of the most popular types of shorts for ladies include:
- High-waisted shorts
- Paperbag waist shorts
- Lace shorts
- Linen shorts
- Tailored shorts
- Cycling shorts
- Boy shorts
These types of women’s shorts combine fashion and functionality, allowing women to style them with blouses, t-shirts, crop tops, or blazers depending on the occasion. Because of the variety of styles available today, types of women’s shorts range from casual everyday pieces to sophisticated, tailored garments suitable for formal settings.
Famous Types of Shorts for Men
Similarly, there are many types of shorts for men designed for casual wear, sports, and outdoor activities. Some common types of shorts for guys include:
- Chino shorts
- Cargo shorts
- Athletic shorts
- Denim shorts
- Board shorts
- Tailored shorts
- Lounge shorts
Each of these types of men’s shorts serves a different purpose, from relaxed home wear to beach vacations and smart casual outfits.
Best Types of Shorts Are Best for Summer
Shorts are a summer essential because they allow airflow and keep the body cool. However, some styles are more suitable for hot weather than others. The best types of shorts for summer wear include:
- Linen shorts
- Cotton chino shorts
- Athletic shorts
- Lightweight denim shorts
- Swim shorts
These materials are breathable and comfortable, making them ideal for warm climates and outdoor activities.
Casual Shorts vs Sports Shorts vs Formal Shorts
Understanding the difference between casual shorts, sports shorts, and formal shorts can help shoppers and brands choose the right designs.
- Casual shorts are designed for everyday wear. They include styles like denim shorts, cargo shorts, and lounge shorts.
- Sports shorts are made for physical activity. These include running shorts, gym shorts, and compression shorts, which prioritize flexibility, breathability, and moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Formal or tailored shorts are structured and polished. Styles like Bermuda shorts and trouser shorts can even be worn in business-casual settings.
Choosing the Best Shorts for Different Body Types
Different body shapes can benefit from different types of shorts women and men wear. For example:
- High-waisted shorts help accentuate the waist and elongate the legs.
- Bermuda shorts provide more coverage and balance proportions.
- Mid-thigh shorts work well for most body types.
- Loose-fit shorts offer comfort for athletic builds.
Choosing the right fit and length can make a significant difference in how flattering and comfortable shorts feel.
The Most Popular Shorts Trends Today
Fashion trends are constantly evolving, and several types of short trousers are gaining significant popularity in modern wardrobes. More and more designers are emphasizing styles that feature comfort, multifunctionality, and modern aesthetics.Â
For this reason, tailored Bermuda shorts are now a great option if you’re looking for a way to look polished but still casual for both informal and semi-formal occasions. Boxer-style lounge shorts are also becoming increasingly popular, reflecting the increased demand for comfortable clothing that works well at home and can be styled in a relaxed manner when you’re outdoors.Â
Due to the increased popularity of athleisure wear, athletic-inspired shorts continue to be one of the most popular styles; high-waisted linen shorts also continue to be a staple summer item because of their lightweight fabric and flattering fit.Â
Largely, oversized denim shorts are making a strong return in streetwear fashion. These styles demonstrate that modern shorts have combined form and function and can be worn by men and women alike.
Shorts in Apparel Manufacturing and Clothing Brands
Understanding the number of different types of shorts available will help you to create a winning product line between brands and manufacturers of clothing. Denim shorts, cargo shorts, athletic shorts, boxer shorts, tailored chino shorts, and lounge shorts are some of the most common types of shorts produced by clothing (apparel) brands. Each kind of short can be sold to a particular target market, which is why casual, active, and lifestyle collections can all be developed from the same basic styles of shorts.
In addition, most brands and manufacturers use many different fabrics, fabric colour combinations, cutting techniques, and finishing to make each pair of shorts unique at any point in time because they must respond to the rapidly changing consumer.
Final Thoughts
Shorts are no longer considered only a basic summer piece of clothing; they have drastically changed over recent years! Now there are many kinds of shorts available for various occasions, ranging from sports and beachwear to casual events and even some semi-formal occasions.
When searching for ladies’ types of shorts, men’s types of shorts, or types of short pants to add to a clothing line, you will find there are almost limitless options. From denim and cargo styles to athletic and tailored designs, each type of shorts offers unique comfort, functionality, and fashion appeal.
Understanding the types of shorts women and men wear today allows designers, manufacturers, and consumers to make informed style choices that combine practicality with modern fashion trends. Looking to manufacture premium-quality shorts for your brand? Tack Apparel delivers shorts manufacturer solutions designed for modern fashion brands.
