Tailored Shorts Getting It Right

Cracking a Summer look can be a tricky business- but never fear, because we're going to get your wardrobe for warmer climbs down to a tee with this quick fire guide on how to wear a true Summer staple- the chino short, with some effortless class. There's not much to dislike about a pair of tailored chino shorts. They're more versatile than that pair of trainers you keep refusing to throw out because they 'just go with everything', and pack more of a style punch than David Haye in those ridiculously broad blazers he always seems to wear... You'll find a pair in pretty much any colour going, so matching a pair up to a look you're going for is nice and easy. Plus, they're the easiest short to give you a Summery dressy edge. We've covered a host of looks to show you how you can wear your tailored shorts- everything from smart to casual is covered, so there really is no excuse for wasting time in the shops when you should be out in the sun...

Dockers Slim D1 Ultimate Khaki Short, Farah Reno Shirt, Converse Ox Low White

We've colour coordinated this look better than an obsessive interior designer decking out someone's living room- the peach colour runs through the stripe on the Farah Reno shirt and into the Dockers shorts- making people think that you've put some serious effort into your look. Of course, they don't need to know that that's not entirely true, do they? Finished off with some classic white Converse low Chuck Taylors, you might find that you have a battle on your hands keeping these Chuck's so white... but don't worry, the only thing better than a fresh pair of Con's is a pair that's been absolutely battered.

Humor Nieder Baked Apple short, Adidas Originals Labels crew tee, Converse hi tops white. Chino shorts aren't just for the smart boys- they're pretty key in bagging yourself a laid back Summer street wear look. Start with a bit of colour and wear these Humor Nieder shorts. A pop of red will give your look a bit of a lift against the Adidas Originals labels t-shirt. Size up in the tee and get a baggy fit, roll the sleeves and keep it casual without looking like you've escaped from a retro Tony Hawk Playstation game. Finish it off with a cult classic- a pair of hi top Chuck's with a pair of old school white sports socks. If it were us wearing this, we'd get a snap back on our heads and a pair of Wayfarers over our eyes too.

Fred Perry by Bradley Wiggins kintted polo, Humor Harbo Shorts, Navy Low Converse

Here's something a bit different for you- a darker shade on the Anerkjendt Harbo short and a smart navy knitted polo; but it's not just any polo. This Fred Perry by Bradley Wiggins polo is limited edition and comes with some cool finishing's like a zip neck and back pocket. It's pretty cool, whether you're into the antics of the lanky cyclist or not! We love the checkerboard texture on the material, and the dark navy colouring makes it easy to look a bit smarter. Finished off with some ever faithful navy Converse, this look isn't just reserved for the mods and grid lovers.

Ben Sherman EC1 tailored shorts, Tommy Hilfiger blue Oxford shirt, J Shoes Ivy shoes.

Finally, something a tad smarter for your Summer wardrobe. When it comes to British tailoring, there aren't many on the same level as Ben Sherman. We love the colour on these classic EC1's, as well as the detail on the turn up-they bring back a bit of nostalgia and vintage tailoring into a modern look. We've linked them up with this Tommy Hilfiger blue Oxford shirt, and yes, we know 'blue and green aren't meant to be seen' but in all honesty, that's more dated than only wearing black shoes with a suit. This look then is the perfect blend of British-American relations, with two brands working together to give a smart, elegant and classically understated look. Slip on this pair of J shoe Ivy moccasins and you've got a look that's fit for evening drinks, or dinner in the sun. Fancy taking the whole elegant gent thing to another level? Pop on a pair of Ray Ban Club Masters for a look that wouldn't look out of place on the French Riviera.

Ryan J Gray