Men: What shorts to wear for cocktails, weekends, music fests

Shorts are tricky territory for men to tackle. Wear them too long and loose and they look like capri pants. Too short, and they radiate a skeezy '80s vibe.

But it's hot — so hot — outside, and certain occasions demand shorts instead of pants. They're ideal for kicking around the city during the weekend, going to summer events calling for casual clothing and heading outdoors. Here are shorts to wear for four common summer occasions.

Weekend on the lake

Shorts: Creep Cotton Fatigue Shorts

Why: Khaki shorts don't go in and out of style; they are style. Pair them with a striped long-sleeve T-shirt and canvas sneakers, and you have a perfect outfit for a day on the lake or on the trails. Too many guys, however, wear khaki shorts wide enough for someone double their size. Creep's trim-fitting version features a rise that hits above the knee and a subtle front pocket that distinguishes it from run-of-the-mill numbers that other guys sport. Locally, MartinPatrick3 carries Creep.

"It's something with an outdoor explorer feel," MartinPatrick3 store manager and buyer Erick DeLeon said. He added that they can easily be dressed up as well thanks to their traditional underpinnings, making them the perfect pair to wear from the beach to the bar.

Cocktails

Shorts: Engineered Garments Ghurka Short

Why: Long shorts are passe, with the exception of Ghurka shorts. A staple of safari and military attire, Ghurkas were popularized in fashion-forward circles when New York style icon Nick Wooster co-opted the style (often worn as part of a suit). They're perfect for dressier occasions, such as patio cocktails or a casual wedding. Engineered Garments' take on the classic, which are available at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue, would pair well with a navy or cream blazer, linen shirt and suede loafers. It's a risk-taking look, but one that suggests a man of the world.

"It's one of my favorite shorts," BlackBlue owner Steve Kang said. "I like the fit because it's more of a mid-rise. The inseam of the leg is longer, but it has a taper to it."

Morning grocery run

Shorts: Kit and Ace In the Field Cargo Shorts

Why: Most cargo shorts are bulky and too long. Kit and Ace's In the Field Cargo Shorts, however, are trim, short and come with two discreet side pockets that are thin and don't blouse out like their baggier counterpart. The fabric is technical, yet was originally designed for suiting, which guarantees that even with a T-shirt and sneakers, these slim shorts will elevate your style for any grocery run, street party or any other time you're on-the-go.

"The color-block design, functional pocket details and tailored silhouette make this piece a summer staple," Kit and Ace co-founder and head of brand J.J. Wilson said. "Wear [it] on your bike ride to work, and then straight through to after-work drinks."

Going to a music festival

Shorts: Engineered Garments Fatigue Short

Why: There's no surprise Engineered Garments' shorts show up twice in this list. Their military and workwear-inspired designs provide durability, functionality and a ruggedness fit for summer's swelter. Their Fatigue Short is shorter than their Ghurka. And while it comes in several different colors, the navy and gold daisy print is the option to spring for. The large flowers offer a dash of whimsy that makes them ideal for music festival revelry.

For a unique look, Kang suggests pairing the Fatigue Short with a white oxford button-down. The ensemble is crispy and ruggedly refined, but not too precious.