Bermuda shorts

Policeman in Bermuda attired in Bermuda shorts

British military commanders Brooke-Popham and Wavell in WW II

Bermuda Shorts, also known as walking shorts or dress shorts, are a particular type of short trousers, now widely worn as semi-casual attire by both men and women. The hem can be cuffed or un-cuffed, around one inch above the knee.

They are so-named because of their popularity in Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory, where they are considered appropriate business attire for men when made of suit-like material and worn with knee-length socks, a dress shirt, tie, and blazer. In addition, many businesses in the West that have a business casual policy similarly allow this kind of clothing in appropriate weather. They are available in a variety of colors, including many pastel shades as well as darker shades.

Bermuda shorts originated with the British Army for wear in tropical and desert climates, and they are still worn by the Royal Navy. It is believed that the style was adapted for business wear in Bermuda, emulating the British military forces stationed there in the early twentieth century.

As clothing and fashion are generally not subject to strict definitions that distinguish similar styles, there are no specific parameters to distinguish Bermuda shorts from "regular" shorts. In fact, many argue that any shorts (that are approximately knee-length) worn while in the geographic boundaries of Bermuda can readily be accepted as "bermuda shorts."

Bermuda shorts are not to be confused with "clam diggers" or "capri pants" extending below the knee. Cargo shorts may be a similar length, but are typically baggy or less "tailored" than Bermuda shorts.

See also

• The Official Preppy Handbook
• British Empire

Related Garments

• Khaki drill
• Shorts
• Madras Shorts or Pants
• Knee socks
• Bucks (shoes)

External links

• Bermuda shorts — from "Bermuda Online" by the Royal Gazette.

This clothing-related article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. v • d • e