How to Style Swim Shorts for a Casual Beach Look

Men’s swim shorts are the versatile hero piece for any beach look. At Love Brand, our swim trunks are quick-drying, lightweight and finished with practical pockets, making them perfect for moving seamlessly from beach to bar.

Taking up barely any room in your holiday suitcase, they also make packing a dream. From vibrant tropical prints to timeless pastels, there’s a pair of designer swim shorts for every kind of island adventure. To help you style your perfect pair, we’ve put together a simple men’s swim shorts style guide to ensure you look your best on your next sun-soaked getaway.

Can You Wear Swim Shorts Casually?

Absolutely. Swim shorts aren’t just for swimming; they make for the perfect summer short. They keep you cool and comfortable in hot weather and can be paired effortlessly with resort staples like linen shirts, relaxed polos and classic tees. Men’s swim shorts are a great way to add a burst of colour or a tropical print to your holiday wardrobe, emulating the island vibes.

Choosing the Right Swim Shorts for You

The best beach days are the ones where everything feels easy: the sun on your skin, sand underfoot, listening to the gentle sound of the waves. Your swim shorts should match this energy. Easy-to-wear, light and comfortable.

Start with the fit. Opt for a drawstring waist and a relaxed fit for maximum comfort in your swim shorts. You want shorts that move with you, whether you’re diving into the sea, wandering along the beach, or stretching out under a palm.

When it comes to style, think about what feels most you. If bold tropical prints are your thing, embrace them. If you prefer something quieter, look to subtle patterns and classic colours. The key is to feel confident and as comfortable as possible in your swim shorts.

What to Wear With Men’s Swim Shorts

Wherever the day takes you, from the water’s edge to sunset drinks, the right styling can take your swim shorts far beyond the beach. Here’s what to wear with your swim shorts to create the perfect holiday look.

Days on the Water

For a day at the beach, comfort is key. You want your outfit to easily transition between a dip in the water and lounging on the beach under palms. The beach is where you can really play with your prints too. Vibrant, tropical prints like our ‘Crazy Coral’ swim shorts are always a hit. Here are our top picks to pair with your men’s swim shorts on beach days.

• Rash Vests: Made for the water, our men’s rash vests provide UPF50+ UV protection, the highest rating for sun protection in clothing. They pair effortlessly with swim shorts while helping keep your skin protected from the sun.
• Terry Towelling Polos: Made from 100% organic cotton, a terry towelling polo shirt pairs perfectly with swim shorts for beach days. Soft, breathable and naturally moisture-absorbent, they're perfect for throwing on straight after a dip.
• Open Linen Shirts: A classic option, whether short or long-sleeved, an open linen shirt never fails to radiate island vibes. Pair bold prints with neutral swim shorts, or go for a full co-ord for a vibrant holiday look.

Casual Island Days

Not every moment by the coast is spent in the water. Some days are made for wandering beach towns, long lunches and slow strolls. With the right pieces, your swimming trunks can take you far beyond the beach, creating an easy, laid-back look that still feels polished under the sun. Here’s what to pair with your men’s swim shorts.

• T-Shirts: It’s a classic option for a reason. Pair your swim shorts with a cotton t-shirt for a relaxed, laid-back look.
• Linen Hoodies: Crafted from 100% linen for a breathable feel, our men’s linen hoodies are a great pairing for your swim shorts. Whether exploring the island or mooching market stalls, it adds a refined elegance to your outfit.
• Espadrilles: A true warm-weather staple, espadrilles are a great choice for pairing with swim shorts. Lightweight and breathable, they offer all-day comfort.
• Caps: No casual warm-weather look is complete without a baseball cap. Shield yourself from the sun while adding the perfect finishing touch to your look.

Evening Style

When it comes to evening style, go for a more refined twist. Opt for a neutral colour like navy blue swimming shorts to create a more sleek, polished base. If heading to the bar or dinner, you want to avoid bright, bold patterns, instead going for something more relaxed and understated. Here’s what you can wear with your men’s swim shorts in the evening.

• Long-Sleeved Linen Shirts: A long-sleeved linen shirt helps to elevate any look, while still keeping the essence of island style. A sky blue linen shirt pairs perfectly with matching swim trunks or neutral whites or navy, creating a fresh, coastal palette.
• Polo Shirts: A classic polo shirt is another option to give a refined look to your swim shorts. It gives off an old-money vibe, without feeling out of place in a beachside restaurant.
• Panama Hats: Crafted from Toquilla straw, the classic design of a Panama hat elevates any look. Lightweight and elegant, it brings just the right amount of structure to an otherwise relaxed evening look.