Some of Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons‘ ideas might not resonate immediately when seen on the runway. But six months later, the moment they arrive to the stores, these concepts become more approachable – and turn into obsessions. A menacing tension felt palpable once the models, dressed as corporate commuters, walked on the raised glass floor with a stream running through a meadow beneath. But when you put Prada‘s autumn-winter 2024 venue aside, you see great, great menswear – and accessories, like the wool caps in the most striking shades of green, yellow and red. The collection itself consisted of ultimate classics of menswear, as Simons listed for “the businessman, the working man, the thinking man.” The Prada twist was about touches that subverted these safe spaces of identity, enticing the wearer to surround himself with nature. Narrow-fit raincoats, tweed chore jackets, three-button gray topcoats, and gold buttoned naval outerwear all offered a route outdoors. This is a Prada outing that offers safeness and quintessence, clothes-wise.
Collage by Edward Kanarecki. Don’t forget to follow Design & Culture by Ed on Instagram!
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I never really cared about what’s going on at Coach, but the resort 2025 lookbook has sparked my interest. Finally, a brand in New York that fills the blank space that Raf Simons left after creating the ambitious – and sadly aborted – Calvin Klein 205W39NYC project. Stuart Vevers similarly plays with the codes of Americana in a loveworn, weathered, and lived in way, with bits of cinematic, even horror-y drama. Vevers’s rather winter-ish resort collection is stuffed nostalgia-tinged fuzzy-soft cozy cable knits and full tweedy skirts with huge taffeta bows, rocking a Victoriana-goes-1950s vibe. Note how the oversized Argyle check knit polo shirts are designed to layer up at will, one of the many pieces in Vevers’ line-up denuded of gender specificity. Likewise the jewelry: diamanté bows and chandelier earrings to pin here, there, and everywhere, and single earrings with a delightfully kitschy quality to them – pumpkins, candy canes, essentially the John Waters-approved inventory of holiday tree decorations. For layering up with those sweaters Vevers suggests a ratty tee emblazoned with Popeye; it was inspired by a black and white image of Debbie Harry back in the day wearing a t-shirt with the pipe smoking, spinach loving cartoon character. Popeye isn’t the only pop cultural icon in play here as the designer was also looking at images of Twin Peaks stars Madchen Amick and Lara Flynn Boyle between takes, in their homespun, 1950s-esque looks warped by David Lynch.
Collage by Edward Kanarecki. Don’t forget to follow Design & Culture by Ed on Instagram!
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ERL, next to Bode and Greg Lauren, is the future American classic of fashion. What Eli Russell Linnetz so painstakingly and consistently returns to at his brand is so much more than only about clothes; it’s a feeling, crafted from 2000s nostalgia, unique male-on-male-gaze and a certain theatrical sensitivity. His clothes are Bruce Weber and Abercrombie & Fitch campaigns, blues and surf-rock, Venice Beach and John F. Kennedy Jr. (and also John Schlossberg – JFK and Jackie’s grandson, the internet’s latest obsession). And yet they feel so good – and relevant – in 2024. “I like going back to these benchmark things, even from a historical point of view,” he said, “Where did this outfit come from? I want to solidify the narrative of this look,” he continued, explaining that this season was about defining his take on his forever beloved theme, Americana. The spring-summer 2025 collection is titled “The Beach,” in a nod to the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio as an all-American backpacker. Linnetz said that his narrative for the season was four boys, Tyler, Jason, Brad, and Chad, leaving water polo practice and stumbling upon a mysterious beach party. Though the looks could also be nods to the people he saw every day growing up in California. “A lot of those movies are just what people wore around me, so I never saw them as film costuming,” he said. “But this season I was reexamining all the athletes, the jocks, and what they wore.” So he made tiny swim shorts and cozy terry knits and transformed his popular swirl jacket into a loose gauge knit with a mohair insert. He made zip-off cargos and sherpa zip-ups. He also turned ’70s posters into charming ’90s airbrush tees, and produced dense and comfy striped tees with extra long-sleeves (“just like a surfer would have”). All that crafted in ERL’s studio (@whitepicketfence) and made in California, from most durable and high-end materials. This is the American dream.
Here are the pieces I would so get to ERL-ify my wardrobe.
During summer, finding the perfect pair of men’s shoes to wear with shorts is critical. Shorts are a warm-weather staple, offering comfort and breathability. However, choosing the proper footwear can upgrade your outfit from basic to on-point. With so many options available, deciding which shoes complement your shorts best can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of Amberjack men’s shoes to wear with shorts, ensuring you look effortlessly stylish and feel entirely at ease.
Factors to Consider
Before getting into the specific shoe styles, it’s essential to consider a few key factors that will influence your choice of men’s shoes to wear with shorts:
Occasion: Are you dressing for a casual day out, a backyard barbecue, or a more formal event? The occasion will dictate the appropriate level of formality in your footwear.
Climate: If you live in a hot and humid region, breathable materials and open designs will be more comfortable than heavy, enclosed shoes.
Personal Style: Your fashion sense should guide your choice of men’s shoes to wear with shorts. Some men prefer a more polished look, while others embrace a relaxed, casual vibe.
Activity Level: If you plan on being active or spending time outdoors, you’ll want shoes that offer good traction and support.
Best Shoes to Wear with Shorts for Men
Now that we’ve covered the essential factors let’s dive into the top men’s shoes to wear with shorts options:
Casual Sneakers with Shorts
Casual sneakers offer the ultimate laidback look when paired with shorts. Low-top canvas sneakers give a classic, timeless vibe that works for everything from running errands to casual weekend hangouts. Opt for versatile colors like white, gray, or navy to mix and match with different short styles and hues. Wear slip-on sneakers or sporty mesh designs that provide breathability on warm days for a more modern aesthetic.
Sneakers are also extremely comfortable, making them ideal for active weekends or travel days that involve lots of walking. Throwwear crisp white sneakers with chino shorts and a casual tee for the perfect put-together yet relaxed outfit. The beauty of sneakers is their versatility in dressing up or down, depending on the occasion.
Mesh Shoes with Shorts
If you’re looking for shoes to keep your feet cool and dry during the hottest months, mesh dress sneakers are the way to go when wearing shorts. Their lightweight, well-ventilated design ensures maximum airflow and breathability. Pair mesh running shoes or trainers with athletic shorts for a comfortable athleisure that looks perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, running errands, or just relaxing around town.
You can even dress up mesh shoes with tailored chino or linen shorts and a button-down shirt for a more stylish take. Opt for sleek, sporty designs in classic black, white, or navy colors. The flexible, stretchy mesh uppers mold to your feet for an ultra-comfortable fit ideal for those scorching summer days.
Bit Loafers with Shorts
Bit loafers instantly elevate any shorts outfit with their sophisticated yet laid-back aesthetic. The signature bit accent across the saddle adds a touch of refined prep to balance out the casual nature of shorts. Leather bit loafers work best for dressier, more formal shorts, while suede is an excellent option for daily wear.
For smart-casual warm-weather style, team a pair of brown or burgundy tassel bit loafers with chino or linen shorts, a crisp button-down or polo shirt, and a blazer. You can also dress them down by wearing sleek black or navy bit loafers without socks and rolling the hems of your shorts for a relaxed Mediterranean vibe.
Penny Loafers with Shorts
Penny loafers are a timeless footwear choice that perfectly complements the easygoing spirit of shorts. The slip-on style adds convenience, while the sleek leather or suede uppers provide a polished finishing touch. For a refined casual outfit, team classic brown penny loafers with chino shorts, a polo shirt, and maybe even a sharp blazer for evenings out. Penny loafers are comfortable dress shoes to wear with shorts for some semi-formal occasions.
You can also lean into a more laidback aesthetic by wearing well-worn penny loafers without socks alongside frayed or distressed denim shorts and a vintage tee. The versatility of penny loafers allows you to dress them up or down as the occasion demands while always maintaining an air of sporty elegance.
Sandals with Shorts
When warm weather hits, few footwear options are as practical and comfortable as sandals paired with shorts. Leather slide sandals give off significant “resort wear” vibes – add chino or linen shorts and a breezy camp shirt for the perfect vacation-inspired ensemble. Sporty velcro sandals with cutout details offer excellent ventilation for active pursuits like hiking when worn with cargo or athletic shorts.
For the ultimate casual warm-weather uniform, you can’t go wrong with flip-flops or toe-thong sandals matched with classic knee-length shorts in khaki, navy, or gray colors. Just make sure your feet and toenails are presentable if exposing your toes! No matter your style, sandals provide the perfect fuss-free option for outdoor breezy summer days.
Water Shoes with Shorts
No beach day or boat outing is complete without a pair of water shoes to protect your feet. These versatile amphibious shoes are designed to be worn both on land and in water, making them ideal for transitioning between shore and sea. They offer excellent traction, quick drying, and freedom of movement, whether lounging on the sand or splashing in the waves.
When styling water shoes with shorts, your options are limitless. Sleek neoprene water sock designs look ultra-sporty teamed with surf trunks or longer athletic shorts. More rugged closed-toe styles provide extra protection for kayaking or stand-up paddling when paired with lightweight cargo or board shorts. Add a rashguard or swimshirt, and you’re all set for an action-packed day on the water.
Hiking Shoes with Shorts
For outdoor adventuring and rugged trail exploration, hiking shoes and shorts are the ideal footwear choice. Sturdy leather or waterproof designs offer ample support, traction, and protection on varied terrain, allowing your legs to stay relaxed and free in moisture-wicking shorts. Pair heavy-duty ankle boots or mid-cut hikers with cargo shorts for an ultra-functional hiking uniform.
You can incorporate hiking shoes into your daily casual looks by teaming them with classic chino, denim, or flat-front shorts for a rugged yet trendy vibe. The key is choosing low-profile options that hit at or below the ankles to show off more leg. Well-cushioned running-inspired trail shoes in neutral hues like tan, olive, or gray provide comfort and style.
Final Thoughts
Remember, balanced style and comfort are the keys to nailing the perfect men’s shoes with a shorts look. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and find the shoes that best suit your aesthetic and lifestyle.
When you’ve got Paul Thek’s “Spinning Top” installation, Peter Hujar’s “Shoe for Elizabeth” photograph, a Charles Rennie Mackintosh “Argyle” chair and Carlo Scarpa’ “Easel” scattered around the runway, then you know it must be a Jonathan Anderson fashion show. No other designer has such a sensitivity towards contemporary art like Loewe‘s creative director, who often works and creates like a curator. This season, however, Anderson resorted to radical restraint in regards of his menswear. “Razor looks” is how he described his approach. It indeed was sharp. Slim silhouette, very French C-suite tailoring with almond-toe leather oxfords in black opened the show. Shorts and t-shirts were painted with a cable knit shaped finish. Edged in golden piping and emanating a shiny gleam, they appeared almost ceramic. A short-sleeve shirt was fabricated in sections of tonal fringe that resembled a hairy houndstooth, while a long brown coat was made in nappa leather on its right side that gradually transitioned into ostrich on its left. Anderson said the gold or monochrome feathers were there to divide our view of the faces beneath them as part of his consideration of forced perspective. This was a collection that stimulated you to question exactly what it was you were seeing, without going for chaotic eclecticism that Anderson has been channeling lately.
Collage by Edward Kanarecki. Don’t forget to follow Design & Culture by Ed on Instagram!
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