HOW TO: WEAR A BLAZER WITH SHORTS

Hey Prepsters,

Rocking blazers with shorts became extremely popular last summer, thanks to designers taking their own take on the pairing. I wanted to create a short how-to guide to showcase the easiest way of pulling off the look, for men of all different shapes and sizes. One thing that I wanted to address quickly before getting into the details is that I have received tons of emails asking me to feature affordable brands. Being a student, I love myself a good sale, so even though you may see a bunch of high-end pieces on my blog, know that for each designer item I own, I have at least 10 X the amount in cheap and cheerful finds. But… back to the topic of wearing blazers with shorts.

Here’s a couple of my tips on how to wear a blazer with shorts

Tip 1. Find the right blazer

For a blazer + shorts look, it is always easier to stick to one theme. Many brands are now offering blazers with corresponding shorts – so that essentially, you’re getting a suited look. Which is basically to be dressed like a traditional suited look, with a modern twist (with the shorts). However, with the look I am wearing, I wanted to keep it a whole lot more relaxed, yet preppy…. since I am “The Prep Guy” and all ;). I found this cotton blazer at RW&CO’s online store, but essentially any soft shoulder sportscoat in a summer fabric (cotton or linen) can do.

Tip 2. The right pair & length of shorts

The right pair of shorts would be preferably a flat front/chino style to work with a look like this one. If you would like to go for a more formal look, a pleated short in a suiting fabric can look quiet dandy for a summer wedding. Now this is the most important part about getting the look right… the length of your shorts. Guys!! It is 2016… your shorts should hit ABOVE your knees. FYI am 6’1 in height and even then I only purchase 8 inch or 10 inch shorts. Any longer and you need to go back to the 90’s. I found these on sale online at Old Navy for pretty much the same price as 2 lattes.

Tip 3. What you should wear underneath the blazer

Ideally, with any blazer, a collared shirt looks best. So I picked out my trusty Joe Fresh linen-blend shirt for the look. But definitely give a polo, henley or a tee a try as well. If you would like to wear the “short suit,” go for a well tailored dress shirt, as any other shirt fit will take away from the look.

Tip 4. Accessorize accordingly

Essentially, if you want to go for a more so casual look, accessorize for the same style. I paired my look with a repp tie from Bows-n-ties.com, a Cole Haan pouch, and my Citizen watch. If I were to wear the formal version of this look, I would carry a more streamlined bag or briefcase.

Tip 5. The No-Show Sock & Footwear

Regardless of your footwear choice, ensure that your socks are not visible to avoid looking like you’re elderly gent. A few recommended footwear styles to try are loafers, slip-ons, monkstraps, drivers, casual oxfords and wingtips, and oxford styled sneakers. I paired my look with my G.H Bass Weejuns from DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse Canada from the clearance section.

That’s it for the guide. Be sure to subscribe via email, follow myself on social media @theprepguy, leave a comment below with your thoughts and share the post. Thank you for reading – Syed, The Prep Guy