Is It Appropriate To Wear Shorts To Work? Thom Browne, The Designer, Weighs In

Since 2020, many of us have grown accustomed to the comfort of working from home, where the dress code often leaned more towards casual than corporate. As offices have reopened, this relaxed approach to workwear has persisted for many. With the rising temperatures across the country, the idea of wearing shorts to the office has likely crossed your mind. But is it appropriate, or should the thought be quickly dismissed?

To settle the debate, we turned to renowned fashion designer Thom Browne, famous for dressing celebrities at events like the Met Gala and for his distinctive collections. Browne, known for his iconic gray suits that often feature shorts, offered his expert perspective on this sartorial dilemma.

Can You Wear Shorts to the Office?

“If it’s appropriate in your line of work, then I think you should,” Browne told Morning Edition’s A Martinez. However, he cautioned that the decision to wear shorts should be context-dependent. “But I think there might be situations or certain offices where it is not [appropriate]. So, I think you have to kind of be respectful to where you are.”

Browne’s signature style often includes tailored shorts, which he famously wore to court during his legal battle with Adidas. For him, shorts are not just about comfort but also a way to challenge conventional norms. “I just love them because I like the comfort of them,” Browne said. “But I do also like the idea of almost driving people crazy because they don’t really understand what they’re seeing.”

Shorts in the Office: A Stylish Yet Subtle Statement

Despite his personal affinity for shorts, Browne acknowledges that wearing them in the office can be “a little off.” Reflecting on the early days of his career, Browne recalled the dress-down era in banking and other industries, which led him to champion a return to tailoring. “The reason why I wanted to reintroduce tailoring was because I was against the whole dressing down era,” he explained.

How to Wear Shorts to Work, According to Thom Browne

If you’re determined to incorporate shorts into your office wardrobe, Browne advises opting for a tailored pair, paired with a jacket. “I always feel like if you pair a pair of shorts with a tailored sport coat, it makes it a lot easier to make the shorts more appropriate for work,” he said. This combination mirrors a suit, with the trousers replaced by shorts, creating a balance between casual and professional.

However, Browne emphasizes that not all shorts are created equal when it comes to office attire. “You can’t just wear the same pair of shorts you would wear to the gym,” he noted. The addition of a jacket elevates the look, ensuring that the ensemble remains polished and work-appropriate.

When In Doubt, Play It Safe

For those who feel uncertain or uncomfortable about wearing shorts to the office, Browne’s advice is simple: “Just don’t do it.” Confidence in your attire is key, and if the thought of wearing shorts makes you apprehensive, it might be best to stick with more traditional workwear.

In conclusion, while wearing shorts to the office can be a stylish and comfortable option, it’s essential to consider the specific environment and culture of your workplace. If done thoughtfully, with tailored pieces and a balanced approach, shorts can be integrated into professional attire. But if there’s any doubt, it’s wise to err on the side of caution and save the shorts for after-hours.

Content courtesy of NPR & NFH Digital Team