Though we've emerged from the pandemic with a reinstated hunger for fashion, certain home-bound practices have left their mark. Comfort, for one, is no longer something most are willing to sacrifice—a notion many designers and fashion brands have taken in stride. From dressed-up sweatshirts to elevated loungewear sets, shoppers now have an array of options to look chic while avoiding cruel-to-the-body fashion practices—i.e., high-waist denim. Our most recent favorite? The boxer short.
What began as a "borrowed from the boys" leisurely pajama short has evolved into a stylish separate suitable for the streets. At Comme Si, founder Jenni Lee launched boxer shorts in 2020 alongside her luxury sock offering and has since struggled to keep them in stock. These days, you'll find offerings across an array of platforms, including preppy sportswear-inspired label Recreational Habits, who debuted theirs in a matching set complete with a corresponding button-down. Italian label The Andamane offers a corresponding bra top to pair with their boxer shorts in an intriguing masculine-meets-feminine sort of fashion.
Photo: Courtesy of Recreational Habits
"We designed the spring collection during the pandemic and felt the boxer short was a perfect short for the occasions ahead—easy breakfasts with friends, to throw on over a bikini or dress up as a full look with the Martha and a kitten heel," says Recreational Habits founder Jackie Skye Muller of their expansive versatility. "Nothing is too formal anymore!"
And she's right. Boxer shorts can be paired with tank tops, sweaters, t-shirts, even blazers. Wear them in a matching set à la Risky Business or alone over a bathing suit. Often found in a matching set, this makes the case for pairing yours with a corresponding button-down. The best part? The elasticated waistband, of course. Discover how we plan on styling the wear-everywhere staple and shop a few of our favorites below.With a Matching Button-Up
Top photo: Courtesy of Comme Si
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