The solution: Chino shorts that hit above the knee.
We've been over cargo shorts for a long time now. But every time we say so, we hear the inevitable cry of "But what am I supposed to wear?"
Let us introduce you to shorts that don't look terrible: Simple, slim-fit chino shorts that hit above the knee. (For most guys, that will be 9 inches or shorter, depending on how long your legs are.)
The slim profile doesn't flare out like cargo shorts do, and the shorter inseam doesn't make it look like you'd rather be wearing pants.
J. Crew makes some of our favorites ($65).