How to recognise it
Elastic and a drawstring at the waist, a mesh liner inside, short or mid legs, and side and back pockets with hook-and-loop. The fabric is light polyester or nylon.
Where it comes from
In the 1930s men were allowed to swim at beaches without a swimsuit top, and separate swim trunks appeared.
Who and when it suits
For swimming, the beach, the pool and holidays. With a linen shirt and espadrilles they work at a beach café too.
Variations and look-alikes
Swim trunks come in short retro, mid length, tailored with side adjusters, plain, printed, striped, colour-changing in water and in matching family sets. They differ from board shorts in the elastic, the liner and their shortness.
How to style it
- Rinse after chlorinated water.
- Choose a length above mid-thigh.
- Dry in the shade.
- With a linen shirt.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01Which swim trunk length is in style?
Shorter, about a 12–15 cm inseam; long ones count as board shorts.
02What is the mesh liner for?
It replaces underwear and helps the shorts dry fast.
03How do you care for swim trunks?
Rinse in fresh water after swimming and dry in the shade, not the sun.
04How do they differ from board shorts?
Swim trunks are shorter, with elastic and a mesh liner.