No longer confined to the stuffy bedroom drawers for decades in the minds of many, now Boxer shorts (men’s shorts), especially the 2023 version, boldly declare: “They’re underwear no more!” From the runway to the beach, the streets to the bar, this item is ready to accompany you anywhere, not just… in bed.
Summary: On the Runway Tips for styling with Boxer shorts
- For casual strolls, light coffee dates
- For workdays
- For festive occasions
Traditionally speaking, boxer shorts are often used by men as underwear or sleepwear, with the simple purpose of providing comfort and breathability for the wearer. However, similar to high heels (or the history of pink and blue), the times will change what we consider conventional. While men’s boxer shorts can still serve their intended function, they no longer stop there. Now, whether on the runway or trending on social media fronts, they all “measure up” to a new, trendier image.
On TikTok – the “encyclopedia” of trending styles of this decade, you’ll see how diverse the “world of boxer shorts” can be. From Y2K “chaos” to Zoom waist-up styles to gender-fluidity,… they all become playgrounds for mixing and matching with men’s boxer shorts. Cotton boxer shorts can almost become an alternative choice for maxi skirts, layered skirts, or long dresses… And what about jeans? Except for places that require more modesty, you can fold them away. Pairing boxer shorts with baby tees, crop tops, blockcore shirts, oversized sweaters, or even knitwear, and a pair of Adidas Sambas sneakers are all excellent suggestions.
On the Runway Why not start with the Miu Miu runway, where Miuccia Prada pioneered the exploration of the potential of those ordinary men’s shorts? With images of short layered skirts accompanied by extremely low-slung belts that don’t actually tighten anything but mainly reveal the boxer shorts with the bright MiuMiu label in the middle, the Spring and Fall 2022 collection of Miu Miu has definitely elevated and pushed the coverage of the trendiest, most fashionable boxer shorts to a new level.
The recent Fall 2023 season is undoubtedly the most reasonable reference, the most “living proof” of the rising boxer short trend. What are fashion houses planning for this fall after a series of looks spotted with boxer shorts? Last September, The Row debuted its fall collection with a look consisting of a finely tailored two-button jacket paired with a white button-down shirt. The overall top part may seem serious, but contrary to what we think, everything from the waist down is completely opposite, a simple white cotton boxer shorts and a pair of black flip-flops. “Quirky” but fresh.
On the Fall 2023 runway and beyond, boxer shorts are officially becoming a trend, and like other clothing types, their styling is incredibly diverse. Matthieu Blazy – a designer with deep expertise and a “protégé” of Raf Simons as well as Phoebe Philo, once again defines luxury at Bottega Veneta. Sober and steadfast, Matthieu transforms everything through the language of fashion under the wing of the fashion house he is “sheltering,” becoming full-bodied and high-quality. For example, the cotton boxer shorts we are discussing here are a clear example of that. White cotton boxer shorts with delicate light red stripes worn with a striped button-down shirt but the spacing between the wider stripes and under the feet are knitted socks with shoe-like soles – simple yet sophisticated and meticulous, who’s next to bring the bedroom onto the runway as beautifully as Matthieu?
From the soothing neutrality of The Row, Bottega Veneta, the sparkling satin of Loewe, or the uniquely styled Miu Miu, Marc Jacobs, couture like Julie de Libran, which styles would you choose?
Tips for styling with Boxer shorts
- For casual strolls, light coffee dates For these days, comfort and simplicity are always the wearer’s priorities, so a plain-colored (pastel) or subtly striped boxer shorts paired with a tank top, or even a high-necked sweater if you’re in a slightly chilly climate, plus a few accessories (small earrings or bracelets) are more than enough for you to comfortably enjoy peaceful moments!
- For workdays If your workplace doesn’t have or has minimal dress code restrictions, wearing boxer shorts to work might not be impossible. However, because it’s a place that still requires seriousness and has some limitations on clothing to a certain extent, choose medium-length shorts that are not too short like those worn at home, and the colors should be dark or neutral. You can pair the shorts with a striped button-down shirt in the same tone to create a harmonious feeling and enhance the professionalism. In addition, wearing them with a T-shirt and a blazer is also a worthwhile option to try out!
- For festive occasions Colors, patterns, floral motifs, extravagant or even quirky,… just do what you want and wear what you like because the holiday season is all about freedom and being as carefree as possible.
