The Edit: The best swim shorts for summer 2019

We bring you our annual curation of the swim shorts that are sure to keep you looking stylish...

Summer fast approaches, and that holiday you booked in the height of winter after a glass too many is finally on the horizon. And, if you’re headed for sandier pastures this season, you’ll likely be in the market for a pair of swim shorts that promise to keep you looking Bond-worthy as you emerge from the waves or top up your tan.

To help you along on your way, we’ve done the hard work of trawling through the latest in beachside style, to bring you our curated list of the swim shorts that will keep you looking chic, even after a long day in the ocean.

Play with patterns

Fancy pushing the envelope with your style choices after so many months suited and booted in the same old office attire? Why not be brave and opt for a jazzier print that will bring the holiday spirit to your wardrobe.

We love this selection of prints from some of our favourite designers — each of whom are masters at ensuring a gentleman’s style game needn’t be let down just because he’s dressing down.

Frescobol Carioca Copacabana Tailored Swim Shorts

Frescobol Carioca Copacabana Tailored Swim Shorts

£160

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Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mira Navy Mid-Length Swim Shorts

Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mira Navy Mid-Length Swim Shorts

£175

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Ripa Ripa Amalfi Swimshorts

Ripa Ripa Amalfi Swimshorts

£110

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Play it safe with a staple colour

Keen to embrace the laid back, beachy look, but feeling reluctant to take the full, flamboyant plunge with a patterned pair? One of these straight-talking swim shorts from our selection are about to become your new holiday hero garment.

We love each of these for bringing a tailored elegance to even this most laid-back of beach essential. They are even smart enough to team with a linen shirt for a lazy lunch with a view.

Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-Length Swim Shorts

Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-Length Swim Shorts

£155

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Onia Calder Mid-Length Swim Shorts

Onia Calder Mid-Length Swim Shorts

£100

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Hartford Mid-Length Swim Shorts

Hartford Mid-Length Swim Shorts

£95

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If in doubt: opt for stripes

It is hard to call to mind a time when stripes haven’t been in fashion. As well as adding an understated elegance to any outfit, they also serve to make the wearer look a little slimmer (not that we’re insinuating anything, you understand…)

So, if you’re hoping to bring a touch of Riviera chic to your wardrobe, can we suggest that you opt for one of these minimalistic designs that are sure to keep you in style for a long time.

Polo Ralph Lauren Mid-Length Striped Cotton-Blend Seersucker Swim Shorts

Polo Ralph Lauren Mid-Length Striped Cotton-Blend Seersucker Swim Shorts

£75

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Ripa Ripa Monterosso Celeste/Blu

Ripa Ripa Monterosso Celeste/Blu

£110

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Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-Length Striped Seersucker Swim Shorts

Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-Length Striped Seersucker Swim Shorts

£165

Buy Now

Now you’ve got your wardrobe sorted, take a look at our favourite Mediterranean villas to rent this summer…

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