Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
If you’re looking for a pair of everyday shorts that are as attractive as they are comfortable, then there is nothing better than a pair of Drawstring Easy Shorts. With their classical pattern these shorts are easy to wear casually or dress up slightly with a button shirt and loafers, making them a versatile option for anyone looking to expand their shorts collection.
1) Freenote Cloth: Deck Shorts
Freenote Cloth’s Deck Shorts are a pair of classic easy shorts with a pocket shape that sets them apart from much of the competition. Their made in in the USA from Japanese jungle cloth with a cotton drawstring, hidden pocket snaps, and herringbone pocket bags. Shown here in navy, these shorts are available in an array of popular colors.
Available for $160 from Franklin & Poe.
2) Save Khaki: Light Twill Easy Short
Save Khaki is a great option for just about any basics, and their Light Twill Easy Shorts exemplify their approach. These shorts are made in the USA from a lightweight twill and feature slash hand pockets and a single back pocket. They come in a ton of different colors and are reasonably priced enough that you can collect all that you need.
Available for $95 from Save Khaki.
3) Arpenteur: Cargo Short
These Cargo Shorts from Arpenteur are a great amalgamation of easy shorts and cargos. Made in France from a 75% cotton 25% linen fabric, these shorts combine easy shorts’ stretchy waistbands and drawstrings with the large pockets of cargos. While they do come in several colors these shorts are a good bit pricier than many others on this list.
Available for $249 from End.
4) Hartford: Tank Pleated Linen Drawstring Shorts
If you want a pair of linen easy shorts and aren’t a fan of Arpenteur, then Hartford’s Tank Pleated Linen Drawstring Shorts might be just the ticket. They’re made from 100% linen fabric, shown here in indigo, and feature a drawstring sewn from the same material. While these shorts don’t have the elasticated waste you ordinarily see on easy shorts, this detail helps to allow them to be dressed up.
Available for $200 from Mr. Porter.
5) De Bonne Facture: Washed Belgian Linen Easy Shorts
The linen train continues with De Bonne Facture’s Washed Belgian Linen Easy Shorts. They’re made in France from Belgian linen and feature the elasticated waist and drawstring closure you’d expect from easy shorts. While certainly not the cheapest option out there, if you want a pair of easy shorts with all the bells and whistles then this is an excellent option.
Available for $295 from No Man Walks Alone.
Plus One – ts(s): Pin Stripe Cotton Silk Loose Fit Shorts
While many of ts(s)’s garments are uniquely designed, they never wander into the realm of gaudy or difficult to wear. Their Pin Stripe Cotton Silk Loose Fit Shorts fit this pattern. They’re made in France from a unique 65% cotton 35% silk fabric and feature a dual-tone colorway that adds interest without making these shorts hard to work into a wardrobe. We can’t tell you how to spend your money, but if you have some coin burning a hole in our pocket and want a good pair of shorts then these should definitely be considered.
Available for $375 from Namu.