Is It Acceptable for Men to Wear Shorts at Work?

Yes, men can wear shorts to work, according to an article on Business Insider. However, certain rules must be followed.

If you ask the general public, most people will probably advise against showing your legs at work.

At least, that's where most people landed in Business Insider's LinkedIn poll asking whether shorts at the office are appropriate. Over 7,000 people have responded so far, with 55% voting "no," 20% voting "yes," and 25% saying that "it depends."

Zahra Waliji, a stylist who dresses everyday people and corporate workers, said wearing shorts in the office is about a lot more than style.

Even light trousers can feel like too much fabric on hot days. Shorts can be an easy swap for anyone. They're light, breezy, and comfortable. So long as your office allows it, Waliji said workers should feel empowered to wear them, but there are fewer pants options for men.

Waliji said:

"I definitely think women can wear shorts [in the office]. For men, it's a little trickier. But it's hot in the summer, and it's OK to wear dress shorts."

There's a way for men to wear shorts in the office.  However, some fields are more welcoming of garments like shorts than others.

Tech is the biggest example, with employees wearing everything from simple hoodies to statement leather jackets on work days. Private-practice jobs are also likely safe places to wear shorts.

Even if you are allowed to wear shorts at work, you shouldn't necessarily wear any pair you have. There are a few rules to follow if you are allowed to wear shorts at work.

The shorts men wear at work should be knee-length or longer than the ones they would wear otherwise. Athletic shorts with five-inch inseams won't cut it, and neither will satin, lace-lined bottoms. That means this isn't the time to try those extra-short styles loved by Paul Mescal and Harry Styles, nor the daring pairs worn by Alexander Skarsgård.

Take a look at the outfits the two men are wearing. It is easy to see the difference. The shorts on the left wouldn't be work-appropriate, but the shorts on the right would.

Waliji said workers should generally stick to trouser-style shorts and long chinos. This rules out denim and cargo shorts. Bold colors, however, are fine — if they're styled nicely. Red shorts with a white button-down shirt and loafers would look nice. She also recommends elevating shorts by pairing them with more formal tops, like polo shirts, and classic accessories like loafers and leather belts.

Waliji added:

"It all depends on where you're working and your dress code. If you're an attorney, you need to be in a suit. I don't think a blazer and shorts are going to work."

If the company allows it in their dress code, wearing shorts would be acceptable for men who work in a warehouse or stockroom away from the public's view.

Like a lot of things in life: "When in doubt, leave them out."

Summary

1. Check your company's dress code. Know what your company allows.

2. Wear shorts that are knee-length or longer than the ones you might wear to other places.

3. Refrain from wearing athletic shorts with five-inch inseams.

4. Don't wear shorts that are extra short.

5. Make sure you wear shoes and socks that go well with your shorts.

6. Make a wise decision to pair your tops with the appropriate shorts, shoes, and socks.

7. The bottom line is that if you have doubts about the shorts you are attempting to wear, choose your long pants and be comfortable without worrying about the shorts you are wearing at work.

Share Your Opinion

• What do you think about men wearing shorts at work?

• If you are a man, do you wear shorts on your job?