From the Mailbag: Shorts and Shoes in really hot climates.
To: Dappered
Subject: Shorts and Shoes
I live in Texas, where the weather is shorts capable for 9 months out of the year. The only problem is, I don’t exactly know what sort of shoes to wear with said shorts other than flip-flops, tennis shoes, or boat shoes. Do you have any suggestions for shoes other than these? I had considered the driving mocs, but I’m concerned that they would look strange with shorts. Any input would be great.
Thanks, I enjoy reading the site…
Jonathan
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To: Jonathan
Subject: Re: Shorts and Shoes
Jonathan:
Thanks for the kind words. We enjoy putting the site together. So a win win all around.
Here’s the good news: Some people, including Esquire’s style corespondent, think you really can wear driving mocs with your shorts. Here’s the bad news: Wearing anything other than classic American style sneakers, flip flops, or boat shoes can get really tough to pull off.
I think the question maybe to ask is not what to wear on your feet, but instead what to wear on your legs.
If a pair of sneakers won’t fly for a certain event, shouldn’t you be wearing pants anyway?
……
(Chinos by Banana Republic. James Bond’s Suit by… some expensive designer)
Yes it’s ungodly hot in Texas in the summer. I know, I’ve been there for it. But pants have worked for James Bond in the Bahamas. It could work for you in Texas. And he’s wearing a jacket.
Shorts are comfortable and easy. But if you’re trying to look a shade better than decent, shorts just won’t be in the picture. I can’t remember the last time any of us saw George Clooney’s calves. Shorts are kind of like winter hats with pom poms on top. Sure they can be fun, but it’s one more thing you’re going to have in common with a 12 year old while wearing it.
Keep your summer pants (or suits) light in both color and fabric weight. Chino or linen blend, nothing else. Take a cool or downright cold shower to start the day, to the point where it’s uncomfortable, and cut back on the caffeine. That should help set the tone for your internal body temp. Skip the socks, add some foot powder, and give it a try. You might be surprised that it’s not that much different than wearing a pair of shorts.
Will I totally stick to pants when the hot weather comes back around? Of course not. But when it comes time to pull on a pair of shorts, like you, I’ll have filp flops, boat shoes, or my favorite pair of Jack Purcells on my feet.
Nothing else.
Enjoy the Texas Pants weather while you still got it.
– Joe
joe@dappered.com
A pair of white buck shoes may not be too difficult to pull off
Here is what you do. Ignore the shorts for a moment. What are you wearing up top? Polo and vest? Button down with rolled up sleeves? generic shirt with navy blazer- whatever
then, what trousers would you wear with it? Chinos? fine, jeans (Never wear denim shorts), whatever…
pick your shoes as if you were wearing long pants. Take your cue from the bahamians- They wear jackets and ties with their shorts, and as well, they wear (socks…) and dress shoes. Short pants are just that- pants that are short. Stick with what you are wearing overall, and you’ll be better served than if you cater to one part.
As a recent Texas resident, I can relate. You can be as anti-shorts as they come and still find yourself putting them on when the thermometer hits three digits.
I was always self conscious about wearing shoes with shorts too until I found a pair of Reef tennis shoes that are beige. What I found is that the style of shoe matters a lot less than the color. Go with any light colored shoe and it will blend in really well. The Reefs are close to my skin tone, which helps, and are velcro without looking ridiculous. Here’s a link to a photo:
http://australasia.reef.com/images/PRODUCTS/large/RF-003088_tan.jpg
You simply cannot go wrong with a pair of interestingly colored converse all-stars (or uninterestingly of course).
Jack Purcells too. OR… PF Flyers. Like these Grounder Lo in natural with the sweet heel detailing.
Right on. I’ve got a pair of red PF Flyers and they’re great with any somewhat colorless outfit.
Seriously, man up. Short pants are for children. When you are adult, you should wear long pants.
I live in the California desert. We have three seasons: temperate, hot, and scorching hot. It gets over 120 here. I’m only 26, but I haven’t worn shorts wince I was a teen.
That is unless you’re swimming, or doing some sporting activity.
In my experience shorts don’t keep me any cooler. In fact the pants will keep the sun off my legs.
There’s a reason why Bedouins wear coverings from head to toe while living in the most inhospitable arid desert on the planet. Breathable fabrics will keep you cool while keeping the sun off.
Unless you’re on the links, or playing b-ball, wear some pants.
Eaaaasy Steven. Maybe you’ve sworn off shorts for good, but not all of us have.