Fashion: Hey, shorty

Vanishing Elephant shorts, $120, from Area 51.

Get into the blue with a pair of jaunty swim shorts.

While the retro buzz has lingered for several seasons now, summer is the perfect opportunity to play with thigh-grazing lengths popularised in the 60s. Whether or not the trickle-down effects of a rock star economy has anything to do with the myriad miniskirts and minidresses on offer right now, this season has a particular focus on baring plenty of leg for those who are confident enough to do so.

For men, swim shorts tow the line between classic stubbies and board shorts for a tidy length that sits just above the knees.

Local brand Just Another Fisherman has concentrated on quick-drying swim shorts that pay homage to fishing culture and maritime motifs, such as illustrated marlin prints to classic stripes. The "Depth" shorts for example (#2) come complete with nifty side pockets and an adjustable drawstring waistband for a comfortable fit.

Niche menswear brands such as Orlebar Brown have quickly garnered a loyal following among men who like to stand out on the beach, taking their cues from 1960s poolside utopia and the imagery of photographer Slim Aarons, where vacation scenes in Palm Springs and the French Riviera continue to provide plenty of inspiration for designers.

A picturesque scene of idyllic summer getaways printed on to your swimmers? Why not? It's enough to inspire a sense of rest and relaxation for those balmy days ahead.

Photos / Guy Coombes, Supplied

Main image: Vanishing Elephant shorts, $120, from Area 51

1. Swim shorts, $99, from Fifth Avenue.
2. Just Another Fisherman shorts, $85.
3. Polo Ralph Lauren shorts, $100, from Matches.
4. Saturdays shorts, $119, from Slick Willys.

5. Country Road shorts, $79.90.
6. Orlebar Brown shorts, $427.
7. Timo shorts, $189, from The Object Room.
8. Huffer shorts, $99.

9. Vilbrequin shorts, $431, from Mr Porter.
10. Paul Smith shorts, $199, from Fifth Avenue.
11. Vanishing Elephant shorts, $85, from Black Box Boutique.
12. Rusty shorts, $90, from North Beach.

Stockists

• Area 51 (09) 529 1958
• Black Box Boutique (09) 378 0073
• Country Road (09) 529 1987
• Fifth Avenue (09) 360 9700
• Huffer
• Just Another Fisherman
• Matches
• Mr Porter
• North Beach (09) 849 9000
• The Object Room (09) 378 0767
• Orlebar Brown
• Slick Willys (03) 477 1406