First up, it’s denim shorts. If you’re generally a jeans man who doesn’t exactly think of Faliraki as a fashion opportunity, then denim shorts are a great holiday alternative. However, shorts which are loose-fitting and frayed at the hem may only be worn if your luggage has been left at Heathrow and you’ve been forced to customise your jeans at the Arrivals gate. This season, shorts with turn-up hems which sit just beneath the knee are everywhere, and look great worn with anything from loafers to flip-flops.

However, I can feel the sense of panic setting in already. I mean, where will you keep your wallet, your room key? You certainly won’t be leaving your passport back at the hotel like last year. Well, worry not, there is another option: cargo shorts. This style of shorts is perfect for fans of pockets, as there are usually plenty of them. If you’re planning an action-packed week away, then cargo-shorts are your must-have item – they’re comfy, casual, and can also help you avoid any sort of situation which might see you trying to style out a man-bag on the beach.

 
From left to right – Hip Shorts: £55.99 Gio-Goi; Core Military Lite Short: £44.99 Superdry

That said, this year’s big holiday trend is rolled up shorts in neutral colours. Similar in cut to the denim shorts, wear this stylish option with striped t-shirts and sunglasses for a touch of sailor-chic, without plummeting backwards entirely to last year’s nautical fashion frenzy. If you can stand the heat, then these shorts look great in thick, cord material, teamed with a contrasting shirt or t-shirt in a soft, thin fabric.

If four pairs of shorts seems a little excessive, then rest-assured that the final pair you ought to pack are, in fact, swim shorts. But, hold it right there, and step away from the hideous Hawaiian-print board shorts. Similarly, you should remember that the answer to the question, ‘who wears short shorts?’ is precisely no one. For those of you who won’t be leaving all sense of style (and dignity) back at Stansted, a classic style swimming trunk is what you’ll want to be wearing this season, finishing just above the knee. Choose pastel shades for a vintage effect (more masculine colours are available…), and choose quick-drying options if you’re trying to pull off that whole beach-to-bar thing. Or you just don’t fancy sunbathing on a soggy towel.

 
From left to right –

Vilebrequin Pink Vintage Logo Swimshorts: £90 mywardrobe.com;

Libertine-Libertine Olive Cotton Shorts: £40 Urban Outfitters

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