the look-see: the long and the short of it

i love a good challenge. this past weekend i sported my favorite bermuda-style shorts every night with varying tops to diversify the power of shorts at night. it seems like a faux pas because of its inherent casual appeal, but with the season warming up it makes sense to wear something functional and that breathes. my shorts hit just above the knee and are cut flat front style in an extremely durable and stain resistant cotton (with a coin pocket no less!) from the gap that i picked up a few summers ago on sale for $11. they're comfortable and simple but when worn the right way it's a welcomed surprise to a sea of covered and warm legs.

my favorite way to interpret them is worn with a long top or light jacket. proportion intrigues me because it's typically so restrained when it comes to what we think of practical mens wear, but when given an opportunity to experiment and redefine, proportion can have maximum impact on a look. in theory it sounds impractical, but when a slim pair of shorts is paired with a light long sleeve t-shirt or button down there is an expression of ease that is necessary for balmy and sultry temperatures (like this damn unpredictable ohio river valley heat and humidity). you can also toss those socks aside because to me this look makes the most sense minus socks and a great pair of sneakers.

i only have the gap shorts in navy and khaki, but thank goodness for urban outfitters and their fine and afforable selection...