The 1970s was a decade known for its wide variety of fashion trends, and this extended to men’s clothing as well. Styles became more expressive and varied compared to earlier decades. When it came to casual wear, especially in warmer weather, men’s shorts took on a look that was quite different from what is commonly seen today.
A defining characteristic of men’s shorts in the 1970s was their length. Compared to the longer styles that became popular in later years, shorts from the seventies were notably brief. They were cut high on the thigh, living up to the name “shorts” more literally than many modern styles.
The length of men’s shorts in the 1970s was simply the prevailing fashion at the time. This shorter cut was seen across various types of casual and athletic shorts. Whether for everyday wear or for sports like running or tennis, the style favored showing more of the leg.
Different materials were used to make these shorts. Cotton was a common fabric, offering comfort for casual wear. Synthetic blends, like polyester, were also popular in 1970s clothing and were used for shorts, sometimes giving them a slightly different texture or sheen. Terrycloth was another material seen, especially for beach or sporty shorts, known for its towel-like texture.
The design of these shorts was often simple. Many featured an elastic waistband for an easy fit. Some athletic styles included a small split on the side of the leg opening to allow for greater freedom of movement during sports. Pockets were often minimal or shallow. The focus of the design was on the cut and the fabric rather than complex features.
