Men's Short Shorts 80s: A Blast From the Past (and Crotch)

27 Jun 2024

Were men of the 1980s onto something with those high-riding short shorts? Or was it a collective fever dream fueled by too much Aqua Net and shoulder pads? Look, let's be honest, fashion is a fickle beast. One minute you're rocking a powdered wig, the next it's all about skinny jeans that could double as dental floss. But some trends, even the most, shall we say, revealing, deserve a second look.

We're talking, of course, about the men's short shorts of the 1980s. Those glorious, thigh-baring, often neon-colored testaments to a time when leg day at the gym wasn't just a suggestion, it was a way of life. This wasn't just about fashion; it was a cultural moment.

Think about it: Tom Selleck in Magnum, P.I., rocking those short shorts like nobody's business. John Travolta strutting his stuff in "Saturday Night Fever." Richard Simmons... well, you get the picture. The point is, these men weren't afraid to show a little leg, and it worked. They exuded confidence, athleticism, and a certain je ne sais quoi that had everyone, regardless of gender, glued to their screens.

Now, fast forward to today. Men's shorts seem to be stuck in an endless cycle of either being long enough to be capris or so baggy they could double as a parachute. Whatever happened to that unapologetic embrace of the male physique? When did showing a little thigh become taboo?

Maybe it's time for a revival. Maybe it's time for men to reclaim their right to bare (some) leg. And maybe, just maybe, the men's short shorts of the 1980s are the perfect inspiration for this sartorial revolution.

The rise of men's short shorts in the 80s can be attributed to a few factors. The fitness boom, spearheaded by icons like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jane Fonda, encouraged people to embrace their bodies. Athletic wear began to bleed into everyday fashion, and what better way to showcase those hard-earned quads than a pair of short shorts?

Movies and television played a huge role as well. From the aforementioned Magnum, P.I. to the iconic workout scenes in "Rocky," short shorts were everywhere. They became synonymous with a sense of masculinity, confidence, and even a touch of rebellion against the more traditional styles of previous decades.

However, the trend wasn't without its critics. Some viewed it as a step too far, too revealing, and perhaps a bit too much information for the general public. Yet, the short shorts persisted, becoming a symbol of the bold and daring fashion choices of the decade.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Men's Short Shorts in the 80s

Advantages	Disadvantages
Showcased athletic builds	Not always considered appropriate attire
Comfortable and cool in hot weather	Could be considered too revealing by some
Made a bold fashion statement	Limited pockets (a common issue with men's clothing even today!)

So, are the men's short shorts of the 1980s due for a comeback? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: they remain a potent symbol of an era defined by its bold fashion choices and unapologetic embrace of individuality.

If you're brave enough to rock the look today, we salute you. Just remember to wear them with confidence, a touch of irony, and maybe a healthy dose of sunscreen on those thighs.