Summer! It’s beginning to blaze away outside our windows and the world — airport by airport, border by border — is opening back up. And not a minute too soon. We were starting to worry that all those new sunglasses and summer scents we bought earlier this year were going to go to waste. Thankfully, it looks like we might just get a summer holiday after all…

Because now, with everything from far-flung infinity pools to local London lidos splashing open once more, we need trunks now more than ever. And Gentleman’s Journal has rounded up the best to buy for summer 2021 below — from simple striped shorts to big, bold options. Dive in…

They say that stripes are flattering, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to these three pairs. It’s a pattern that gives an effortless touch of the Riviera to any outfit — even if you’re only heading down to your local lido.

Opt for a classic thin horizontal stripe from Hemingsworth if you’re looking to add a vintage feel. Alternatively, keep things classic with Ralph Lauren‘s green vertical pattern. Or, if you really want to make a splash, try Frescobol Carioca‘s bold ‘Copacabana’ wave stripe.

If you’re one to keep things simple, go for a big, bold block colour. Even if your trunks have a logo or few small embellishments, don’t underestimate the waterside style statement of a big, brash hue.

If you want a nice, bright, eye-catching colour, then these watermelon shorts from Love Brand are an excellent choice. Bright and cheerful can also pack a style punch — as evidenced by Ripa Ripa‘s Rosso Teller swim shorts. Or, if you prefer to go with a block colour that’s slightly more understated, you can’t go wrong with this simple black offering from Sunspel.

Adding a subtle texture or pattern to your swimwear may be all you need to stand out by the pool this year. Because, though some of us can pull off the bold colours or super stripes, that level of patterning isn’t for everyone.

If you’re keeping things quieter, then, why not add a small touch of sartorial flair this summer with Apnée Swimwear‘s sustainable ‘Ocean 100M’ trunks — as stylish as swim shorts come — or you could opt for a touch of Riviera chic with the brand’s ‘Oursin’ swim shorts. Or, for the ultimate pastel tone, Love Brand‘s ‘Manatee Vanity’ shorts are a good bet — a Bahamas-inspired pattern on a sophisticated cut.

For those who want to add a splash of colour and vibrancy to their summer outfits, a fun, vibrant print can be a great way to go. They may seem overly exuberant to some — but if you can pull them off, why not?

Apnée‘s Ocean 50M print is a joyful splash of primary colours, sure to brighten up any summer wardrobe. Love Brand has put the spotlight on marine life, with its aptly named ‘whale tale’ swim shorts sure to bring some holiday spirit into your wardrobe. And Ripa Ripa‘s geometric ‘Scirocco Giallo’ shorts are quick-drying and tailored to a supremely elegant look.

Want to know where your swim shorts come from? Here’s why high-end trunks are suddenly such big business…

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