SS20 Deep Dive: Boxer Shorts

Evolving from underwear to casual wear, the modern day boxer short has made its rounds throughout history from World War I uniforms to 20’s boxing rings and 90’s hip hop staples to the runways of the last two seasons of fashion week.

A gradual transition from undergarment to an acceptable piece of street style, boxer shorts were refined over time developing the tailored cuts, loose lengths, premium fabrics and bold prints that we see today. A warm weather go-to that is more than comfortable to wear out and about, at the office, or to lounge around in - versatility that labels like Chanel, Alexander Wang, Ludovic Saint Sernin and Casablanca introduced in past collections.

Trend Forecaster, Raquel Sanchez Montes tells SVD "the trend of “underwear” as “outwear” has been prevalent in recent seasons, but it is now, in the post-pandemic era, that it is more present than ever. It is true that we have spent a long, long time locked up at home, and that we have gotten used to the comfort. But who said that “homewear” is just for being at home? Boxer shorts have become a luxury unisex item, the posh pyjamas for the summer.

With his SS21 collection for Dior, Kim Jones has elevated the boxer shorts to the purest level of sophistication. The line between homewear and athleisure keeps getting thinner. Prada and Zegna are two great examples giving the trend a cool twist with their combinations of shorts and biker pants for next summer. Printed boxer shorts feature as one of the key pieces in collections by Casablanca, Paria Farzaneh and Phipps. But of course, if I had to choose one, I would stick with the handmade knit shorts by the Italian brand, Vitelli. Long live boxer shorts.