Where to buy fitted shorts (madras, chino, etc)

[Sam H]

There seems to be very little discussion on sites like SF about shorts. One major discussion I found devolves into a typical SF argument about whether shorts are ever appropriate or just serve to make the wearer look juvenile.

Assuming everyone here knows there are strong opinions about the appropriateness of shorts and that everyone here will only wear shorts when it is appropriate, where would one go to buy quality shorts?

The kinds of shorts I like are typical khaki/chino style shorts, simple solid twills (in some instances, interestingly dip-dyed twills). I like them fitted and above the knee (although when I was younger, I thought above the knee shorts looked stupid). I don't want them so ridiculously fitted or high above the knee that they resemble the short-pants version of the shrunken suit, but just something traditionally sized that I can wear with rolled up sleeves on a casual button up or a tshirt or a polo.

I also would like to branch out and try some madras or patchwork madras shorts but not in a super sunbelt fratboy bright pink style. Something more muted but still summery.

Personally, the best luck I have for shorts is with mallbrands like Abercrombie's family of stores or American Eagle but the quality tends to be garbage despite the styles and fits being good and I'm also trying to stop buying sweatshop clothing whenever possible. Literally, the front buttons on these unravel within a few weeks many times.

It seems every article of clothing has some sort of starter brand the internet menswear community swears by except for shorts. Or I just can't find it.

I leave you with a pic of pretty much exactly what I imagine when I think "well-fitted shorts". They seem to be a bit overfitted in the thigh but somehow it doesn't actually look too bad. I want to avoid the hipstery look of embracing the boyhood nature of shorts or the old man look of billowy short sleeve shirts in short pants form. http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FjPCtl8nPY/S3tqrbBEWtI/AAAAAAAAD0g/GBnAvvOVq0o/s1600/69.jpg

From this article: http://sartoriallyinclined.blogspot.com/2010/02/white-socks-x-loafers-complicated.html

 

[wearitout]

I am totally in agreement here.

I've started nailing down my classical menswear wardrobe but what does one do in the summer when it comes to shorts?

I cannot recommend a brand yet as I too am on the lookout. I am short with wide thighs so I find it awfully difficult to find shorts that I actually think look good on me....

 

[EdDoc]

Have either of your tried Bonobos shorts? I'm thinking of getting my first pair to test them out: https://bonobos.com/products/washed-chino-shorts?color=marine blue&short-length=9 in&short-waist=31

 

[Count de Monet]

OP, if you want good quality, well tailored 'trad' shorts, including patch madras, some in (relatively) subdued colors, you might consider O'Connell's. However, in addition to being a bit pricey, they likely have a longer inseam and a fuller cut than those in that pic from Take Ivy. Most of their shorts are Made in the USA.