Nothing beats the feeling of having a cool and balmy breeze feathering over naked skin, especially after the colder months in temperate regions of the world. SS18’s runways are a testament to the revival of designer label shorts with who’s who in the industry, from Kenzo to Versace putting out the piece.

This essential summer staple gets taken up a notch in the style and design departments with clever plays on fabrics, colours and design. From silk cargos to pink stretch-cotton numbers, get your wallets ready because the five we’ve curated here are available now.

Versace Silk Cargo Shorts

If you’re hunting for a pair of shorts that is the perfect blend of formal and casual, we’ve found just the one for you. Versace gives the utilitarian cargo shorts a refined makeover with its pure silk construct and long cargo pockets that hang just below the hems. In timeless black with a slight sheen, it pulls the basic style into the realm of grown-up sophistication. 

Louis Vuitton Double Pleated Shorts

Leap into Louis Vuitton’s SS18 collection with classic cuts in bold new silhouettes. Their grey double pleated mid-rise is not only comfortable but bends the rules of what makes a pair of shorts—short. The blunt, hanging ankle of these shants is pure old-school charm meets avant-garde. Style it with a regular shirt or a mandarin collar to elevate the look, or play it cooler with a cotton tee.

Paul Smith Pink Stretch-Cotton Shorts

Add an element of vibrant fun to your summer wardrobe with this pink number from Paul Smith. Made from stretchable cotton with minimalist styling that features angled front pockets and rear welt ones, the look is a seamless companion for sipping rosé while chilling in the sun. Also comes in soothing sand, sky blue and a darker navy variation.

Gucci Cotton Shorts with Bees

Gucci gives its khaki cotton drill shorts a touch of liveliness in a golden hue and embroidered all over with bees, which are symbolically associated with European nobility. Rock this piece a la mode with a pale-coloured shirt plus loafers or moccasins for a classy yet casual look.

Giorgio Armani Linen Bermuda Shorts

Go with beige and lightweight linen for that effortless summer vibe. Giorgio Armani’s Bermuda shorts are the best way to usher in this warm season with a relaxed feel that will keep you cool all day whether you’re enjoying coffee by the waterfront or just browsing the shops. Wear it with a light sweater or you can even throw on a windbreaker if the night air turns a little chilly. 

Image Credits: Versace, Louis Vuitton, Paul Smith, Gucci, Giorgio Armani