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A guide to types of shorts

No matter the season, there’s always a good excuse to break out a great pair of shorts. They’re a versatile essential for every man, and we’ve got every style covered. From cargo to chino and everything in between, find the pair that fits your look with our men’s shorts guide.

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Types of shorts for men

Shorts, like trousers, come in a wide range of lengths, styles, and fits. But unlike trousers, where height often helps determine the right length, finding the perfect pair of shorts can be a bit trickier. At FatFace, we get it, which is why our designers have created a variety of lengths, styles, and sizes to ensure you feel both comfortable and stylish.

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Chino shorts

Take your summer wardrobe from casual to refined with our versatile chino shorts. Crafted from soft, breathable fabrics in a range of finishes, they feel as good as they look. Designed with the classic tailoring of chinos, they feature clean lines and subtle detailing that make them perfect for everything from weekend outings to relaxed office days. Practical front and back pockets keep your essentials within reach, while the timeless finish ensures effortless style season after season.

Mawes

Our versatile Mawes chino shorts are one of our most comfortable with stretch to allow them to move with you and three different length options: 7”, 10”, 12”. With a flat front design and available in a variety of colours, as well as herringbone fabrics, they’re guaranteed to be a staple in your wardrobe.

Stow

Our Stow chino shorts are the perfect blend of preppy style and everyday comfort. Designed with a classic flat-front silhouette, they come in two leg lengths - 8.5” and 10”, to suit your style. Garment-dyed for that lived in feel that gets better with age, these humble shorts are oh so transitional and look effortless with tees, shirts or even a light knit.

Salcombe

Stay cool and comfortable this season with the Salcombe linen cotton chino shorts. Crafted from a soft, breathable linen-cotton blend, they feature an elastic waist for effortless comfort and ease. Available in both plain and patterned styles, and in lengths of 7”, 10”, and 12”, these shorts are perfect for everything from laid-back weekends to smart-casual summer outings.

Bosbury

The Bosbury shorts are the smartest chino shorts in our range, available in two options - the classic cotton city short, inspired by our bestselling trouser, and the same shape in a soft linen-cotton blend that coordinates perfectly with our linen suiting set. Available in 10” or 12” lengths and a modern, tailored silhouette that works seamlessly from weekday to weekend. Pair the linen-cotton with the matching blazer for a polished coordinated look, or wear the city short with casual essentials for timeless summer style.

Pleat front

Step up your summer style with our pleat front chino shorts. Featuring a smart, on-trend pleat front and elevated styling, these shorts are perfect for summer events and occasions where you want a polished, contemporary look. Available in a 10” length, they combine effortless comfort with modern sophistication.

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Cargo shorts

The classic cargo style is perfect for those that are always on the go and need that extra practicality. Our cargo short features a recognisable shape with additional side pockets, chunky belt loops, multi-layer stitching, up to four leg length options and a thorough production process to withstand even the toughest daily wear. Available in two standout styles and a variety of colours - from darker plains to bold colours which are perfect for someone looking for something that’s a little more daring.

Brecon

Our Brecon cargo shorts are designed to get better with every wear. Available in two lengths, 10” and 12”, they’re crafted from a heavyweight fabric, an easy‑wearing fit, and garment‑dyed for a unique, lived‑in look that evolves over time. Packed with internal details, including deep utility pockets for everyday essentials, they’re built for practicality without sacrificing style. Versatile enough for weekend hikes, relaxed travel days, or casual evenings out, these shorts pair effortlessly with everything from simple tees and polos to lightweight overshirts and hoodies.

Burley

Our Burley cargo shorts are built for adventure with large pockets, a lightweight feel and a rugged edge. Designed in two leg lengths - 8.5” and 10.5”, they are packed with internal details and subtle crunching on the pockets for a worn-in look. With a breathable fabric, these shorts blend practicality with effortless style, making them a go-to for everyday wear. Pair them with a shirt for sunset drinks or with a graphic tee for a beach stroll - versatile and essential for your summer wardrobe.

Ryde

The Ryde shorts are your go-to for lightweight comfort and practical style. Designed with a clean, modern utility look, they’re perfect for outdoor wear and everyday adventures. Available in 10" and 12" lengths, these shorts balance function and effortless style with a relaxed fit and reliable fabric. Whether you're exploring the city or heading outdoors, Ryde keeps you comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings.

Pascal

The Pascal shorts deliver the longest length in our shorts range, perfectly balancing style and function with a modern, on-trend shape and a relaxed, looser silhouette. Crafted for comfort and practicality, these shorts feature clean lines and thoughtful utility details that make them as versatile as they are stylish. Ideal for everything from city strolls to weekend adventures, the Pascal shorts keep you looking sharp and feeling comfortable all season long. Step into summer with a fresh take on utility wear - where modern design meets effortless ease.

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Elasticated waist

Made with casual comfort in mind. Crafted from soft, breathable cotton for all-day comfort. These easy pull-on shorts have an elasticated waistband with some featuring a drawstring waist adjustment for the perfect fit and ease of movement. We’ve also given them front and back pockets for your everyday essentials.

Selsey

Meet the Selsey shorts, a new pull-on style with a functional fly for effortless everyday comfort. Perfect for relaxed weekends, holidays, or casual days out, these shorts combine easy wear with a clean, versatile design. Available in multiple colours and key lengths of 7” and 10”, they’re the ultimate go-to for laid-back summer style.

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Padstow

The Padstow shorts are designed for effortless summer ease, with a lightweight feel and pull-on style that makes getting dressed a breeze. Featuring a utility-inspired design, they’re perfect for casual days, dog walks, and all your outdoor adventures. With a 10” length and relaxed silhouette, these shorts combine comfort, versatility, and a subtle functional edge.

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Denim shorts

Available in two washes

Introducing the season’s standout: our new jort - the ultimate denim short for men. Cut just above the knee with a modern, relaxed shape, it’s a fresh take on denim shorts with a 12” leg, looser silhouette, and lightweight fabric for all-day comfort. It pairs effortlessly with tees, shirts, and trainers, bringing effortless style to every warm-weather moment.

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Styles of shorts

When it comes to men’s shorts, choosing the right colour and pattern can take your summer style to the next level. Navy shorts are a classic wardrobe staple, offering a versatile base that pairs effortlessly with almost anything - from bold prints to crisp whites. Cream shorts bring a light, fresh vibe and are perfect for a laid-back, beachy look when paired with casual tees or linen shirts.

For a more earthy tone, khaki shorts offer a timeless, rugged appeal that works well with casual button-downs or graphic tees. Whether you go for solid colours or mix it up with stripes or checks, these styles are easy to wear with trainers or keep relaxed with flip-flops. The key is balancing comfort with a bit of flair, making sure you feel confident no matter where the day takes you.

What shorts are right for me?

When choosing the right shorts for your body type, the fit and length play a crucial role in achieving a balanced and flattering look. Tall men, typically over 6 feet, should go for longer shorts with an inseam of 10 to 12 inches, as shorter lengths can make legs appear out of proportion. For those with shorter frames, a 7 to 10-inch inseam works best, hitting just above the knee to elongate the legs and create a taller silhouette.

If you’ve enjoyed browsing our range of men’s shorts, then why not take a look at our jeans and trousers categories too, for full-length alternatives? But wait, there’s more… Your summer get-up won’t be complete without the perfect pair of sunglasses and hats, to keep you safe from the sun and stylish at the same time. And don’t forget, you’ll need a pair of flip-flops as you stroll across the sandy plains of the beach. Of course, there’s the rest of our men's categories to choose from too.