In summer, when vacations, days by the water, and everything else the season has to offer are on our calendar, turning to comfortable classics makes warm-weather styling all the more accessible. So when a new seasonal trend — or god forbid, the TikTok aesthetic — comes along, I’m usually a skeptic. However, nothing excites me more than finding functional yet comfortable styles for my closet, and this emerging trend ticks all the boxes. Enter: boxer shorts.
Before you scroll, hear me out. Although the style is reminiscent of your boyfriend’s wardrobe, boxers shouldn’t be at the top of your summer wish list just because of their comfortable look. They offer a refreshing alternative to denim cut-offs, but can still be easily styled similarly. What’s more, they add a pop of color and print to an otherwise minimalist outfit – just what the doctor ordered in the summer heat.
Last summer I wore boxers, so this season I’m armed and ready for new ways to wear the comfortable underwear. I pair them with an oversized tee and sneakers for an afternoon of shopping or pair them with a linen shirt and dainty jewelry for a sunset dinner. While it may feel like a huge leap from the usual summer offerings, there’s nothing unusual about loungewear as everyday wear. (Think slip dresses and sheer tops). If anything, boxers are an addition to this cozy arsenal that will inspire some creativity in your styling efforts. (And will definitely earn you a compliment or two.) Plus, they’re an easy option for days when you don’t feel like dreaming up an outfit but still want to look effortlessly elegant. Have we sold you yet?
Below, we’ve rounded up the best boxer shorts options that are sure to become a must-have in your closet – and how to style them. They’re so chic, don’t be surprised if they’re the only bottoms I reach for until September.
After a quick Pinterest search, you’ll find that one of the best ways to style your boxers is with a lightweight crew-neck sweater. This look is a great option for the 60 degree days and nights that spring and summer always bring. Choose a pair of patterned boxer shorts and a solid-colored sweater, throw on a few accessories, and you’ve got a casual, sweet outfit for the transitional period.
When in doubt, wear your boxers as a set. If you don’t want to go to the trouble of putting together an elaborate outfit, opt for a shorts and button-up set or pair your boxers with a button-up shirt in a similar color. Top it off with a baseball cap and a pair of white sneakers for a summer weekend day.
On scorching hot days, denim is the last thing you want to wear on your body. Cut your losses and pair your breezy boxers with your favorite tank top for an outfit that will keep you as physically cool as possible. Make the combination look a little less like pajamas by pairing it with your favorite sunglasses and jewelry.
A stroll through the farmers market, a picnic in the park, long days at the beach – boxer shorts are suitable for almost any summer activity. Wear your boxers as a cover-up over your swimsuit and keep a graphic tee in your beach bag to throw over when you head out for a post-beach drink. Complete the look with raffia accessories (preferably a hat!) and comfortable sandals.
