Men’s summer black shorts and streetwear trends 22 ideas

Have you ever wondered why a simple pair of black shorts can revolutionize your summer wardrobe? How do they blend seamlessly with every shade in your closet, from the white shirt to the black polo? Whether you’re hitting the beach, lounging at home, or stepping out for a casual meetup, black shorts offer a versatile base for any streetwear enthusiast’s outfit. But what makes this garment tick in the world of men’s fashion? Let’s delve into various styles that these seemingly basic pieces can conjure up when matched with the right tops, shoes, and accessories.

Elevated Casual: The Classic Black and White

The quintessence of casual chic, the first ensemble features a man sporting a plain black shirt, neatly tucked into tailored black shorts. His white sneakers reflect the sunlight, adding a crisp contrast that screams summer-ready.

• Shirt: The black tee is form-fitting, highlighting an athletic physique without venturing into the territory of being too tight. It’s the kind of staple every man needs.
• Shorts: Cut just above the knee, these shorts are a masterclass in casual tailoring, offering room for movement while keeping the look sharp.
• Accessories: With a minimalist watch and classic sunglasses, the accessories here are a nod to understated luxury.

Adding a white tee could inject an extra layer of lightness to the outfit, but steer clear of going baggy. The magic here is in the silhouette—streamlined and uncluttered.

Sun-Soaked Sophistication

Here’s a man who knows how to turn heads as he strides by the poolside. The black shorts are a notch above casual, paired with a fitted black tee and accessorized to the nines.

• Top: The snug black shirt is an absolute win for an aesthetic that balances gym-honed confidence with casual cool.
• Shorts: The choice of denim shorts brings an edge to the look, making it versatile for a day-to-night transition.
• Footwear: Flip-flops are not just for the beach; in the right context, they exude a laid-back luxury.

In terms of additions, a white tshirt could soften the ensemble, but an oversized hoodie would overpower the sleekness. Keep it light and athletic.

Monochromatic Minimalism

Behold the power of simplicity. This look demonstrates that monochrome doesn’t have to mean monotonous.

• Top: The oversized black tee is a bold statement in streetwear, and the cotton fabric looks breathable for those warm summer days.
• Shorts: Matching the top, these black shorts are a touch baggy—perfect for a relaxed vibe.
• Shoes: White sneakers are a classic staple that never fails.

Adding a green shirt would disrupt the monochrome mastery, but a silver chain adds a touch of personality without detracting from the overall minimalist aesthetic.

Urban Edge

Street style gets an upgrade with this athletic yet fashion-forward look that combines comfort with an urban edge.

• Top: The black knit is a surprising yet fitting choice for a cooler summer evening.
• Bottoms: The black shorts maintain a clean line and complement the knit texture above.
• Footwear: High-top sneakers, in pristine white, elevate the whole outfit.

While a hoodie could be an easy throw-on, what this outfit needs is a denim jacket—preferably washed—to maintain its grunge feel without compromising on style.

Tattooed Trendsetter

We have an outfit that blends the rebellious spirit of tattoos with the refined cuts of modern fashion.

• Top: The plain white tee serves as a canvas, allowing intricate body art to take center stage.
• Bottoms: The cargo-style black shorts are functional yet stylish, hitting the perfect middle ground between streetwear and utility.
• Footwear: The black sneakers are timeless, with the white soles adding a punch of contrast.

Here, a brown shirt would be a misfit. However, a red top could provide a striking pop of color that complements the artistic ink on the skin.

Athletic Minimalism

Dressed to navigate the urban jungle or to hit the gym, this outfit exudes a clean and athletic vibe that’s all the rage in streetwear.

• Top: The white sleeveless top, stamped with branding, showcases muscular arms and brings a sporty flair.
• Shorts: The black shorts with a white logo play into the athletic theme, practical yet on-trend.
• Sneakers: The white AF1s are a staple, their chunky profile a nod to the athletic aesthetic.

This ensemble is perfect for the gym-goer who doesn’t compromise on style but steer clear of oversized layers that would swamp the defined cuts here.

Urban Cargo

Marrying casual comfort with a hint of military flair, here’s an outfit that’s as ready for a city stroll as it is for an impromptu adventure.

• Top: The plain white tee is the epitome of versatility, a true staple in any man’s wardrobe.
• Shorts: The cargo black shorts are all about functionality with a generous cut for comfort.
• Footwear: Adidas Sambas add a retro-sporty touch that complements the laid-back vibe.

In this look, adding a bright red top could overpower, but a simple black polo would maintain the outfit’s understated edge.

Summer Breeze

The gentleman here encapsulates a light, airy summer feel, perfect for those balmy evenings out in town or a leisurely day by the seaside.

• Shirt: The white, patterned button-down is relaxed and adds a touch of aesthetic charm.
• Shorts: His black shorts are the right mix of casual and smart, with a length that flatters without effort.
• Footwear: Classic slip-ons tie the whole look together, echoing the ease of summer.

This outfit whispers sophistication and would be just as at home at a golf course luncheon as it would be at a casual gathering. However, adding anything too baggy would disrupt the sleek silhouette we’ve achieved here.

Casual Street Edge

Reflecting a relaxed street style, this look is a testament to how monochrome can remain interesting with different textures and accessories.

• Top: A plain black tee keeps it uncomplicated yet stylish.
• Shorts: The black shorts are simple, echoing the tee’s minimalism.
• Footwear: The high-top Converse add a classic streetwear element.

Enhancements? A denim jacket would introduce an additional layer without diminishing the outfit’s cool factor, whereas anything too athletic would shift the focus from street to gym.

Cool and Collected

This is a masterclass in creating a relaxed outfit that still looks put together, perfect for a weekend outing or a casual day at work.

• Top: The green shirt is a soft hue that stands out against the darker bottoms without screaming for attention.
• Shorts: The Nike black shorts hit the mark between athletic and casual.
• Footwear: Black Sambas round off the look with a clean, contemporary feel.

While the temptation might be to add a hoodie for comfort, it would be better to opt for a cotton sweatshirt to keep the outfit in the realm of ‘smart casual.’

Rugged and Refined

Here’s a style that’s effortlessly edgy and screams confidence without trying too hard.

• Top: The black shirt is sleek and perfectly matched with the casual vibe of the shorts.
• Shorts: The shorts are just the right length and fit to flatter, while keeping it casual yet chic.
• Footwear: The boots add a grunge vibe to the ensemble, making it standout and street-savvy.

This look is suitable for someone with a toned figure but might be overwhelming on a more petite frame. The practicality comes with its versatile appeal – ideal for an urban outing but perhaps too bold for a laid-back beach day. To this look, add a sleek leather crossbody bag for functionality, but avoid anything too baggy or oversized to maintain the clean lines.

Minimalist Monochrome

This outfit is a prime example of Korean street fashion’s influence, emphasizing minimalism and structure.

• Top: A black shirt with a subtle drop-shoulder cut contributes to a relaxed yet put-together look.
• Shorts: The tailored black shorts with a belt enhance a minimalist aesthetic while ensuring a good fit.
• Footwear: Classic Dr. Martens bring in a touch of edginess.

While this look works great for most body types, adding cargo elements or denim could distract from the minimalist appeal. It’s perfect for a casual meet-up but might be too laid-back for a formal event.

Street Sport

Embodying a casual yet spirited look, this is a summer-friendly outfit that balances athletic comfort with street style.

• Top: The mustard tee breaks the monotony and injects a warm, vibrant color into the ensemble.
• Shorts: The Nike shorts are undeniably athletic, perfect for an active day out.
• Footwear: Vans sneakers tie in the casual and athletic feel, making the look street-ready.

It’s a versatile outfit that’s not ideal for the gym due to the cotton tee but perfect for a casual day out. Accessories should be kept minimal; a watch would be a nice touch, but a hoodie would be excessive for the look.

Urban Casual Chic

Simple yet stylish, this outfit exudes a laid-back charm with a touch of urban sophistication.

• Top: The neutral tone shirt offers a soft contrast against the black shorts, exuding a calm and collected air.
• Shorts: The shorts contribute to a sleek silhouette that pairs well with the loose fit of the shirt.
• Footwear: Classic AF1 sneakers keep the look grounded and urban.

It’s a great choice for an athletic build and for those sunny days when you want a balance of comfort and style. Ideal for a casual outing, though not the best pick for formal occasions. A canvas belt could be a practical addition, but a denim jacket might be too heavy for this light ensemble.

Relaxed Streetwear

Reflecting the essence of laid-back street style, this outfit is about making a statement with minimal effort.

• Top: An oversized green t-shirt breathes life and character into this outfit, perfectly encapsulating the summer aesthetic.
• Shorts: Paired with classic black shorts, the look remains balanced and grounded.
• Footwear: The Adidas sneakers with their bold stripes add a retro touch that’s bang on trend.

The oversized shirt is ideal for those who favor comfort without compromising on style, and while this look is great for a city hangout, it may be too casual for more uptight events. Stick with the sneakers but avoid heavy boots that could weigh down this breezy look.

Skater’s Paradise

This look captures the essence of skater culture with a dash of nostalgia, featuring a perfect blend of comfort and style.

• Top: The oversized white tee brings a classic skater element to the forefront.
• Shorts: Black shorts with a relaxed fit are ideal for freedom of movement.
• Footwear: Blue sneakers add a pop of color and retro charm to the ensemble.

This style is suitable for those who channel a laid-back vibe and is particularly flattering for slender figures. It’s a great outfit for a day out in the skate park or a casual hangout but may not fit in at a more formal setting. A beanie would complement the look well, but anything too polished, like a blazer, would clash with its relaxed nature.

Urban Explorer

Imbued with a sense of youthful exploration, this outfit is a nod to contemporary urban fashion with a touch of playfulness.

• Top: The small logo on the white shirt adds a subtle point of interest without overwhelming the simplicity.
• Shorts: The baggy black shorts provide both comfort and a modern silhouette.
• Footwear: Classic white sneakers keep the look clean and versatile.

This outfit is great for most body types and perfect for an urban adventure or a leisurely walk in the city. It’s practical, yet stylish enough to make a statement. Adding a crossbody bag could enhance its utility, but avoid over-layering to maintain its effortless charm.

Streetwear Essentials

Here’s a look that’s been a staple in streetwear circles, encapsulating an effortless blend of urban aesthetics and personal style.

• Top: The graphic black shirt with its bright teal print brings an eye-catching element to the look.
• Shorts: The black shorts with white trim are understated yet trendy.
• Footwear: Black and teal sneakers tie back to the shirt, creating a cohesive outfit.

It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a streetwise edge to their outfits and would suit an athletic physique best. This outfit is right at home in the bustling streets or at a trendy café. A cap adds to the street vibe, but traditional dress shoes would be a definite mismatch here.

Casual Cool

Reflecting a no-fuss, comfortable street style, this look is about relaxed fashion that’s both accessible and on-trend.

• Top: The dark tee is straightforward and pairs perfectly with the shorts.
• Shorts: The shorts are sporty and casual, making them a versatile choice for various activities.
• Footwear: Clean white sneakers add a classic touch and break up the dark tones.

While this outfit would work well on many body types, it particularly complements those with a more casual, streetwise approach to fashion. It’s not suited for formal occasions, but perfect for a day out in the city. A snapback would complete the look nicely, while a formal watch might feel out of place.

Oversized Attitude

Oversized tees have carved out their niche in the fashion world, and this outfit exemplifies the trend with a bold graphic and uncompromising comfort.

• Top: The oversized black shirt makes a statement with its striking graphic.
• Shorts: Black ribbed shorts give the look a down-to-earth and casual feel.
• Footwear: High-top sneakers are the go-to for an edgy and stylish finish.

This ensemble is perfect for the streetwear aficionado and works well on a variety of figures, particularly those that can carry off the oversized look. The setting for this outfit is less about the place and more about the attitude. Add a chunky chain for extra flair, but steer clear of anything too polished or preppy.

Tropical Noir

This look is all about embracing the tropical vibe with a noir twist, ideal for those sun-kissed summer days.

• Top: The shirt flaunts a bold palm print, making a statement without saying a word.
• Shorts: The grid-patterned black shorts add a graphic edge to balance the shirt’s busy pattern.
• Footwear: Simple black slides with a stark “OFF” print uphold the monochromatic theme.

It’s a great fit for most body types, especially those looking to add visual interest to their summer wardrobe. This ensemble would shine at a beach party or a casual outing but might not translate as well in a formal setting. Stick with simple accessories; a straw hat could be a chic addition, but a heavy leather belt would disrupt the easy-going tropical theme.

Zebra Crossing

Injecting a wild side into the urban jungle, this outfit merges bold patterns with streetwear staples.

• Top: The zebra print shirt is playful and instantly eye-catching.
• Shorts: The black shorts provide a solid anchor for the outfit’s striking top.
• Footwear: Classic white sneakers offer a clean break from the patterns and pull the look together.

This style is versatile enough for a variety of body types and perfect for those who aren’t afraid to experiment with patterns. It’s tailor-made for a day out in the city or a trendy brunch spot. To elevate this look, a sleek watch or bracelet would be ideal, but anything too ornate would compete with the shirt’s bold print.