Crazy Train! Get Ready For The Wild Ride Of 1970s Men In Shorts

promociones.com.ar Team Editor

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Feb 05, 2025

63 visitor like this post

Share

Crazy Train! Get Ready for the Wild Ride of 1970s Men in Shorts

The 1970s. A decade of bell bottoms, disco fever, and… surprisingly short shorts on men? Yes, you read that right. While the image of 70s men might conjure up images of flared jeans and long sideburns, a closer look reveals a fascinating subculture embracing a surprisingly daring trend: the short short. Forget the knee-length Bermuda shorts of today; we're talking about shorts that dared to venture into previously unexplored territory. This article takes a wild ride through the history and style of men's shorts in the 1970s.

The Rise of the Short: A Cultural Shift

Several factors contributed to the rise of the short short for men in the 70s. The decade saw a significant cultural shift, with a growing emphasis on casualness and comfort. The burgeoning counter-culture movement, with its emphasis on freedom and self-expression, played a major role. Suddenly, traditional menswear rules were up for grabs.

This rebellious spirit manifested itself in many ways, and shorter shorts became a bold symbol of this new freedom. Athleisure, although not yet formally defined, also began to gain momentum. The influence of sporting activities, particularly tennis and track and field, played a pivotal role. These sports demanded comfortable, unrestricted clothing, and the short short was the perfect answer.

Beyond the Beach: Where Were the Shorts Worn?

Contrary to popular belief, these weren't just beachwear. While certainly appropriate for a day at the shore, 70s men's short shorts transcended the beach. They were seen everywhere:

• At the tennis court: A quintessential 70s image was that of a man fiercely competing in a tennis match, clad in incredibly short shorts.
• Around town: They became surprisingly acceptable attire for casual outings and even some social events.
• On the basketball court: The athletic influence is undeniable here.
• At the disco: Paired with platform shoes and a vibrant shirt, short shorts offered a unique, if somewhat daring, disco look.

The Styles and Fabrics: A Spectrum of Shorts

The 70s offered a diverse range of styles when it came to men's shorts:

• The athletic short: Made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like nylon or polyester, these were designed for comfort and freedom of movement.
• The denim short: A more casual option, denim shorts mirrored the popularity of denim jeans.
• The tailored short: Surprisingly, even more tailored short shorts existed, often made from linen or cotton, designed for a more polished casual look.

The fabrics were often bold and vibrant, reflecting the decade's overall aesthetic. Think bright blues, greens, yellows, and even patterned prints.

The Legacy of the 70s Short Short

While the extremely short shorts of the 70s might seem extreme by today's standards, they represent a pivotal moment in men's fashion history. They were a testament to a time of change and a celebration of individual expression. Although the length has shifted considerably over the years, the legacy of the 70s short short continues to influence contemporary menswear, proving that sometimes, the most daring trends can become iconic.

Bringing Back the 70s Vibe

Want to incorporate a touch of 70s short short style into your modern wardrobe? Consider:

• Mid-thigh length shorts: A more contemporary take on the 70s style.
• Vibrant colors and patterns: Inject a pop of 70s personality into your look.
• Paired with a retro-inspired top: Think collared shirts or vintage band tees.

The 70s short short is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a snapshot of a time when men challenged conventions and embraced a new era of comfort and self-expression. So, buckle up, and prepare for a wild ride down memory lane!