Boxer Shorts Will Be Summer's Biggest Trend, According to Gen Z

Menswear meets fashion with these cotton boxer shorts from J.Crew. They’re high-waisted with a three-inch inseam (hello, coverage), breezy and have pockets. “I love these,” gushes one J.Crew reviewer. “I wear them around the house but also as a swim coverup in the summer. They’re super lightweight and the band at the top sits high waisted so it’s not too tight.”

If stripes are your thing, then these Soly Hux boxers from Amazon will certainly fit the bill. Casual and crisp, these shorts have an eye-catching letter patch sewn into the front of the elastic waistband, and it comes in nine colors besides this fiery red. Most reviewers say they’re comfortable and lightweight, though some buyers are mixed on the quality of the polyester, noting that it has no stretch and can feel inexpensive (which, to be fair, they are).

Gap has their own rendition of soft, poplin shorts made from 100 percent cotton and available in three lengths (regular, tall and petite). And don’t worry, it has that classic, easy-going fit along the waist and relaxed drape through the hips and thighs. Yes, there are pockets people. Don’t forget to snag the matching button-down to complete the look.

The three small buttons along the front of the shorts are sure to give off these-are-my-boyfriend’s-boxers vibes. Unlike the previous striped pairs, this print is thicker and bolder in nature, which makes them perfect for the girlie who wants to stand out. One buyer who loves the soft cotton material says, “They aren't stiff as I thought they might be, and I wear these as much as possible—around the house or out with a sweatshirt or T-shirt.” Customers find them to run large, so I suggest you maybe size down, especially if you’re in-between sizes.

If you know me, you know I love a SNDYS outfit, and these light blue, striped shorts are no exception. They’re lightweight, have faux back pockets with white piping detailing and have the most darling white patch at the waistband that makes ‘em pop. One buyer says they’re even more flattering in person than they are online, so that tells me they’re a winner.

Known for their gorgeous lingerie, panties, bras and swimwear, Gooseberry’s boxer shorts may almost get hidden amongst the more risqué pieces…almost. This white stunner manages to ooze the same ultra-sexy vibe that you’d find in the brand’s other designs, just with a bit more fabric. They’re designed for lounging, sleeping and beyond, but it’s important to note that despite its thicker material, the white can be slightly see-through. (Nude undies will be your BFF.)

These shorts are made with 100 percent organic cotton and absolutely no harmful chemicals whatsoever. “I love these shorts for the summer,” says Elizabeth R., a MATE the Label reviewer.
“They’re perfect for those warm days when you’ll want to stay cool wherever you are. You can definitely dress these up or down.” After testing out two sizes, she didn’t find too much of a difference in comparison, so I recommend referencing the size chart before you add to cart.

From one of my favorite Australian brands comes the Elva shorts, a high-waisted, relaxed bottom made from certified organic cotton poplin in a hand-printed stripe that’s as blue as the ocean. Naturally, they’re worthy of a little beach vacation moment.

An OG amongst the rest, the Breezy shorts from Djerf Avenue make an excellent choice for first-timers. They’re comfortable, lightweight and oversized so they sit further down the legs and offer a bit more coverage than your average boxer short. I’ll be wearing the blue stripe print on repeat come summer, but I think it’s time I invest in a black pair soon, too.

Quite possibly the closest style to your partner’s boxers, these striped shorts from Hommegirls is so street-girl chic. They’re intended to be roomy, so I recommend styling them with more tailored pieces up top if you decide to wear it beyond the couch. And a tailored-yet-oversize blazer like this Aritzia blazer I’ve owned for years will look so chic with it. Just throw on some chunky socks and loafers for a Emma Chamberlain moment.