Chino shorts are hot stuff… even when it’s cold outside

• Searches for men’s chino shorts up fourfold year-on-year 
• Weather defying trend has shocked buyers at John Lewis
• Chic style popular in even in the coolest of climes 

While the rest of us shiver and wrap up in our thermals, there’s a hot new fashion trend defying the winter chill. 

Amid the booming sales of hooded blankets, thermals and winter woollies, teams at John Lewis have been taken aback by burgeoning sales of men’s chino shorts.

There’s been a four-fold increase in searches compared to this time last year, with ‘cotton stretch’ fabrics selling fast. Across the six different shades, navy is proving to be the most popular colour for this season’s classic look. 

While some may be braving shorts year-round, others are looking to beat the winter blues, to get their wardrobes ready for holiday. 

Daisy Carter, Buyer for Men’s Own Brand at John Lewis, said: “At first it didn’t stack up - we were absolutely mystified. But it seems that the trend for year round shorts is a relatively new and growing phenomenon. 

“It’s also clear that our customers are looking forward to holidays again which may have prompted them to refresh their suitcase staples.” 

Last month LADbible noted that postal delivery workers seem to wear shorts whatever the weather. And the Financial Times reported that this incongruous look had hit the runway when Irish designer Robyn Lynch teamed them up knits and jacket with shorts.