Start With the Right Inseam (Your Legs Will Thank You)

The single most important factor in choosing swim trunks is inseam length. It determines how flattering the trunks look on your legs. For most men, a 5 to 7 inch inseam is the sweet spot. A 5 inch inseam hits mid-thigh and works well if you have muscular legs or want a modern, athletic look. A 7 inch inseam falls just above the knee, ideal if you’re taller or prefer a more conservative silhouette. Avoid anything longer than 9 inches unless you’re going for a vintage board short vibe. If you’re unsure, start with 5.5 inch inseam trunks in a solid navy or charcoal. For reference, brands like Chubbies specialize in 5.5 inch inseams, while Patagonia’s baggies come in 5 and 7 inch options.

Choose Fabric for Function and Style

Fabric determines both comfort and appearance. For quick-drying and performance, look for a nylon-spandex blend (80% nylon, 20% spandex). It stretches, dries fast, and holds color well. For a more structured, chino-like look that can transition from beach to bar, choose cotton or a cotton-linen blend. Cotton trunks are heavier and stay wet longer, but they look sharp with a linen button-down. If you want something that feels like board shorts but with a tailored look, try a polyester-spandex blend with a matte finish. Terry cloth trunks (like polo towel fabric) are retro and comfortable but can look bulky. Avoid shiny polyester; it looks cheap. For example, Orlebar Brown uses quick-drying cotton-polyester for their tailored swim shorts, while Vilebrequin uses microfiber nylon for a refined look.

Pattern and Color: Make a Statement or Keep It Classic

Patterns can elevate your beach style, but they need to flatter your build. If you have a lean or athletic build, go with horizontal stripes or bold all-over prints (like floral, palm leaves, or geometric). These add visual width and draw attention. For a larger frame, vertical patterns (thin stripes, small dots) or darker solids (charcoal, deep green, burgundy) create a slimming effect. Avoid large cartoonish logos or neon colors unless you’re at a music festival. The most versatile prints are small-scale geometrics, tropical florals, or tie-dye in muted tones. For solid colors, navy, olive, burgundy, and light gray are the most versatile. They pair easily with white, tan, or black T-shirts. For a bold pop, try a burnt orange or cobalt blue solid. If you want to mix patterns, keep a common color theme. For example, navy trunks with a small white floral print match a white linen shirt.

How to Match Swim Trunks With Your Body Type

Not all trunks flatter every body. If you have longer legs, a shorter inseam (5 inches) balances your proportions. If you have a shorter torso, a 7 inch inseam with a slightly higher rise (where the waistband sits) lengthens your lower body. For men with broader shoulders, avoid wide-leg trunks; they make your bottom half look smaller. Instead, choose a tailored cut with a tapered leg (like a 6 inch inseam with a 22 inch leg opening). For a fuller midsection, look for trunks with an elastic waistband and a relaxed fit, but not baggy. A flat front with a drawstring can be more flattering than a full elastic band. Avoid patterned trunks if you have a larger waist; solids or subtle vertical stripes are better. For example, a 220-pound man with a 36 inch waist should choose 7 inch inseam trunks in a solid dark navy or olive from a brand like Bonobos, which offers a tailored slim fit.

Styling Swim Trunks Beyond the Beach

Swim trunks can work for casual summer outings if styled right. Pair quick-dry nylon trunks in a solid color (like navy or gray) with a textured white linen button-down shirt and loafers for a beach club look. For a relaxed BBQ, wear patterned trunks with a plain white crew neck tee (not graphic) and canvas sneakers. The key is to balance the volume: if your trunks are patterned, keep your top solid and vice versa. Also, roll the waistband down once to show a bit of skin if you’re wearing a low top. Avoid wearing swim trunks with dressy items like blazers or polished leather shoes. For a minimalist approach, choose terry cloth shorts (like a polo style) in a neutral color and pair with a simple polo shirt. This works for a poolside lunch. Remember, wet swim trunks should be changed out of quickly to avoid looking sloppy.

This summer, the biggest trends are tailored silhouettes with side adjusters (like Orlebar Brown’s snap button fastening), terry cloth for retro comfort, mixed patterns (like plaid with a floral panel), and sustainable materials (recycled nylon or organic cotton). Avoid overly baggy styles that were popular five years ago. Stick with clean lines and functional details like a back zip pocket for keys and a phone. A small tip: if your trunks have a mesh lining, it’s designed for support but can be removed if you prefer wearing underwear. If you’d rather not, choose trunks with a built-in brief (like Lululemon’s) for chafing-free wear.

Key Takeaway

Choose 5-7 inch inseam swim trunks in a solid color like navy or olive from a nylon-spandex blend for a versatile, flattering fit that works from beach to bar.