Posted on December 1st, 2025.

Summer in Indianapolis means park days, pool hangs, and long weekends that move easily from errands to evenings out. Men’s boardshorts fit right into that rhythm. They are light, comfortable, and easy to throw on, which makes them a smart choice for anyone who wants to stay cool without overthinking their outfit. When you shop secondhand, you also get the bonus of unique patterns and cuts that feel more personal than anything pulled from a big-box rack.

Boardshorts are no longer just for surfers or beach vacations. Worn well, they can work for a casual lunch, a backyard cookout, or a day of running around the city. The key is how you style them: the length you pick, the shirts you pair them with, and the shoes and accessories you choose to finish the look. A good pair of boardshorts gives you that mix of comfort and intention that summer style needs.

If you care about both how you look and how your clothes are sourced, thrifted boardshorts are a strong place to start. They offer bold prints, classic solids, and unexpected color combinations at a budget that leaves room for accessories. With a few simple guidelines, you can turn one pair of shorts into several outfits that feel relaxed, put-together, and ready for whatever your day brings.

Styling Boardshorts for a Casual Summer Look

A solid casual look starts with getting the length and fit of your boardshorts right. For most people, a pair that hits just above the knee feels modern and works in almost any setting. If you are on the shorter side, slightly shorter shorts can make your legs look longer. Taller folks can go for a cut that hits at or just below the knee to keep proportions balanced. Try a few lengths if you can; how the shorts sit when you move matters as much as how they look when you stand still.

Fit is the next big piece. A straight or slightly tailored leg creates a cleaner line and makes it easier to dress your boardshorts up a bit when you need to. A looser fit leans more toward beach and pool days, where comfort is the main priority. Check the waistband and rise as well. You want them snug enough that you are not adjusting them all day but not so tight that they dig in when you sit.

Color and pattern do a lot of the style work for you. If you like prints, look for stripes, tropical motifs, or geometric designs that reflect your personality. Vertical stripes or color blocking can visually lengthen your frame. If you prefer something low-key, solid colors like navy, black, olive, or rust are easy to match and can be worn multiple times a week without feeling repetitive. You can always add interest with your shirt or accessories.

Think about how color plays against your skin tone too. Bright colors and high contrast can pop on deeper skin tones, while softer shades and earth tones often sit nicely on lighter complexions. None of this is a rule; it is just a starting point. Try a few combinations and pay attention to what you reach for the most. That is usually the best guide to what actually feels like you.

Fabric is where comfort really shows up. Quick-dry synthetics are great if you know you will be in and out of the water, while cotton blends can feel a bit softer for all-day wear. In summer heat, lighter fabrics that do not cling will keep you cooler and less irritated. If you shop secondhand, give the waistband, drawstring, and stitching a quick check to make sure everything still feels sturdy.

Round out a casual look with simple, practical pieces. A basic tee, tank, or open short-sleeve shirt will usually be enough. Add a pair of slides, sandals, or canvas sneakers that you are not afraid to get a little dusty. Finish with sunglasses and a cap or bucket hat, and you are set for a day that might move from errands to patio seating without a full outfit change.

Creative Boardshorts Outfit Ideas

Once you have a pair of boardshorts you like, you can stretch their use far beyond the pool. Start with a simple daytime outfit: patterned boardshorts, a solid crewneck tee, and low-profile sneakers. This combination works for coffee runs, neighborhood walks, or hanging out with friends. If your shorts are solid, flip the formula and try a striped or graphic tee instead to keep things interesting.

Layering can help you adapt as the day changes. For a cool morning or heavily air-conditioned space, throw on a lightweight hoodie, zip-up, or overshirt. Keep the colors in the same general family so the outfit looks intentional, not thrown together. When it warms up, you can tie the top around your waist or drape it over your shoulders and still look put-together.

For an afternoon barbecue or a casual date, swap the tee for a short-sleeve button-up. A camp-collar or relaxed-fit shirt in linen or cotton gives an easy upgrade without feeling stiff. If your boardshorts have a bold print, pick a simple shirt in a color pulled from the shorts. If your shorts are plain, you can pick a tasteful print on top. This balance keeps your outfit from feeling too loud.

Boardshorts can also handle casual evenings with just a bit of adjustment. Keep the same shorts, then add a neutral tee and a light jacket such as denim, nylon, or a soft bomber. Choose darker or more muted shades for night to shift the outfit’s mood. Paired with clean sneakers or leather sandals, this combination works well for concerts in the park or casual outdoor dinners.

Accessories help line up your outfit with the setting. A simple bracelet, chain, or watch adds structure without much effort. A woven belt can break up your silhouette and give a little extra polish if your boardshorts have belt loops. A compact crossbody bag or small tote keeps your phone, keys, and sunscreen in one place and frees up your pockets.

Treat your boardshorts like any other staple: something you can style several ways, not just a single-use item. When you think of them as a base for outfits instead of just swimwear, you start to see more possibilities in your closet. That mindset is especially useful when you are building a wardrobe from thrifted or secondhand pieces, where every find counts.

Perfect Shirt Pairings for Your Boardshorts

Shirts can completely change the mood of your boardshorts. The right pairing turns them from “beach only” into something you can wear throughout the day.

Use these ideas as a quick guide when you are getting dressed or sorting through secondhand racks:

• Tank tops: Great for hot days and active plans. Pick neutral tones or simple graphics if your shorts are loud, and choose tanks with colors that echo your shorts if they are solid. This pairing works well for swimming, sports, or any time you want maximum movement.
• T-shirts: A classic crewneck or pocket tee is always a safe match. Solid or subtly patterned tees balance printed boardshorts, while striped or graphic tees can bring life to basic shorts. Look for soft cotton blends that breathe well and hold their shape after multiple wears.
• Short-sleeve button-downs: Ideal when you want a step up from a tee. Lightweight cotton or linen button-ups sit well over boardshorts and can be worn open over a tank or buttoned for a cleaner look. Roll the sleeves a bit for a relaxed feel that still looks thoughtful.
• Linen shirts: Perfect when the setting is a touch more polished. A light linen shirt in white, beige, or soft blue pairs nicely with solid or lightly patterned boardshorts. Combine with simple sandals and a straw-style hat or neutral sneakers for resort-ready ease.

Once your shirt is set, you can fine-tune the look with details. Match your sunglasses frame to the tones in your outfit, pick sandals or sneakers that do not compete with your shorts, and keep jewelry simple and intentional. The goal is balance: your boardshorts should feel like a natural part of the outfit, not the one thing you are trying to hide or overemphasize.

Related: Back-to-School Must-Haves: Secondhand Shopping Tips 

Finish Your Look With Thoughtful Finds

Boardshorts are easier to style when the rest of your wardrobe feels flexible and fun. That is where thrifting and secondhand shopping really shine, especially for accessories, shirts, and shoes that can update your look without a big spend. A few well-chosen pieces can help the same pair of shorts work in several different ways.

LaStelle’s Treasure offers a curated mix of men’s apparel, shoes, and small household finds in Indianapolis that fit this approach to style. You can build outfits that feel original, comfortable, and budget-friendly while also choosing more sustainable options.

Your choice in accessories can reflect your personal taste, so why not explore our rich variety, which is sure to speak to your unique style preferences? Discover a curated selection of high-quality goods.

Shop now and find your next favorite item!

Reach out to us directly at (317) 473-4745 or drop an email at [email protected] for personalized service.