Just the Tips: How to Wear Short-Shorts

Afraid to show a little more skin? You don't have to be with our guide on how to rock half-pants the right way.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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Before you scoff at the headline, let us school you a little bit. This season, shorts are getting shorter and shorter, and as much as you'd like to keep up with the trend, you should also be aware of how low to go. Read on to see two ways to rock the half-pants right, and then check out the look you should avoid—unless you're trying to give your nuts a suntan...

OPTION #1: IDEAL - 1" ABOVE THE KNEE
The perfect length for any type of shorts. The cut is wide enough so it's not hugging your thigh and the style is minimal which makes a huge impression.

trousers

OPTIONS YOU CAN BUY NOW
SHADES OF GREIGE HAMPTONS FLAT FRONT TROUSERS
Click here to Buy It Now at Revolve Clothing, $84
shades

NOBODY FINN DENIM SHORTS
Click here to Buy It Now at Revolve Clothing, $149
nobody

RUGBY CABIN CARGO SHORTS
Click here to Buy It Now at Rugby, $50
cargo1

OPTION #2: DARING BUT STILL OK - 3" ABOVE THE KNEE
The second-degree cut is very style-forward, but be prepared for some Boy-Scout jokes. Rock 'em as trunks or pleated shorts.

midshorts

OPTIONS YOU CAN BUY NOW
NICE COLLECTIVE TUX SWIM TRUNKS
Click here to Buy It Now at Barneys, $175
nicecollect

J. CREW MINI-STRIPE CLUB SHORT
Click here to Buy It Now at J. Crew, $60
jcrwe1

FREMONT NAVY PLEATED SHORTS
Click here to Buy It Now at Oak, $149
oak

NEVER AN OPTION: THE NO-GO - 5" ABOVE THE KNEE
Even if you're on a Euro beach trip or in Brazil, it takes confidence to pull this one off. When in doubt, stick to 1" above the knees, please.

hellno1

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