How To Get Your Swimming Trunks Right

Swim shorts have had quiet a glow up – what was once basic beachwear is now the breakout star of summer dressing

By Sanika Achrekar | LAST UPDATED: NOV 19, 2025

The White Lotus Season 3 might be over, but there's no ending its impact when it comes to the 2025 summer menswear mood board. Walton Goggins in loud Hawaiian prints, Jason Isaacs channelling laid-back resort prep, and the undeniable standout – Patrick Schwarzenegger flexing in a pair of retro-inspired Che Baller Swim Shorts.

But this wasn’t just a TV moment. It mirrored a broader shift in how men dress for the heat, with swimwear now expected to deliver more than just utility.

Whether you're lounging poolside or chasing waves, summer now demands swim shorts that can hold their own beyond the beach. Gone are the days of ill-fitting trunks and forgettable prints. Today’s offerings lean into tailored cuts, breathable fabrics, utility pockets, and subtle style upgrades like integrated belts.

“Just like every category of fashion has evolved in terms of functionality and design, swim trunks have also undergone an unexpected transformation,” says Pulkit Verma, Chief Business Officer at House of Rare. “We’ve moved from basic knee-length shorts and tight fits to looser, more relaxed silhouettes. Beyond that, modern swim trunks come with thoughtful features like water-resistant linings, athletic-style comfort, and belts for a better, more customised fit.”

Ibrahim Ali KhanInstagram/Ibrahim Ali Khan

This shift hasn’t gone unnoticed by designers. Labels across the spectrum – from Shivan & Narresh to Polo Ralph Lauren, Versace to Uniqlo – are approaching swimwear with the same attention to cut, fabric, and detail once reserved for tailoring. One recent example is the collaboration between Sarah & Sandeep and House of Malabaar, which marks a new approach to resort wear with a capsule collection designed to transition from holiday destinations to urban settings. The result? A bold, body-inclusive capsule that’s tailored to flatter and built to last, exactly the kind of statement the Indian menswear space has been waiting for.

Whether you're lounging by the pool or heading from the shore straight to a sundowner, one thing is clear: the era of throwaway swimwear is officially over. Long live the stylish swim shorts.

How To Style Swim Shorts

Choosing the right fit

Getting the right fit is essential. Avoid extremes, too loose or overly tight, and opt for a clean, mid-thigh cut that flatters most body types. Quick-dry, stretch fabrics are ideal for all-day comfort. Prints and colours are subjective, but style-conscious buyers are leaning into either bold statement patterns or minimalist neutrals, depending on their personal aesthetic. The key is to choose swim trunks that have a tailored silhouette and a fabric finish that doesn’t scream 'just got out of the water.'

Going from beach to brunch

Well-made swim shorts are more versatile than ever. Pair them with a linen shirt and espadrilles for a breezy lunch, or throw on a lightweight blazer and sandals for an evening look. At pool parties, go with a Cuban collar shirt, slip-ons, and understated accessories. “When it comes to styling these pieces beyond the beach, balance is key. For instance, if you're wearing a bold colour, pair it with a tank top or casual shirt to keep the outfit grounded. To elevate the look, slip on a comfortable pair of slip-ons and pair them with a nice pair of sunglasses and a cap. This makes sure your swimwear feels integrated into your overall outfit, rather than just an afterthought,” explains Harshad Panchal, Lead Designer at XYXX Apparels.