If there’s one piece in your wardrobe that screams effortless cool right now, it’s the Essentials Shorts. The streetwear game-changer from Fear of God’s Essentials line has become the unofficial summer uniform for fashion lovers, sneakerheads, and TikTok style stars across the States. But here’s the thing — how you wear them in Los Angeles is wildly different to how they’re styled in New York, and let’s not even get started on Miami or Chicago.
From celebrity airport looks to Gen Z’s obsession with gender-neutral styling, Essentials Shorts have found their way into just about every vibe and every zip code. Let’s take a fashion road trip across the US and see exactly how this streetwear essential is making waves.
LA Cool: Oversized Fits and Effortless Minimalism
In Los Angeles, style is about looking like you didn’t try too hard — even if you totally did. Essentials Shorts are paired with oversized tees, chunky sneakers, and a “just rolled out of bed, but make it chic” energy. Celebs like Hailey Bieber and Justin Bieber are frequently spotted in monochrome Essentials fits, running errands in West Hollywood or grabbing an oat latte on Melrose.
LA Style Tip:
- Go for neutral tones like beige, cream, or muted grey.
- Pair with low-top trainers (Air Force 1s are still having a moment) and a loose hoodie.
- Add tiny sunglasses and a baseball cap for that “celebrity avoiding paparazzi” aesthetic.
New York City Edge: Layered and Street-Smart
New York doesn’t do “relaxed” in the same way LA does. In the city that never sleeps, your Essentials Shorts are part of a layered outfit that says, “I’m a creative, and I have somewhere important to be.” Think A$AP Rocky meets Bella Hadid — baggy shorts, high socks, layered oversized shirts, and a tailored coat thrown over.
NYC Style Tip:
- Mix streetwear and luxury — Essentials Shorts with a crisp white shirt and leather loafers.
- Opt for darker shades (black, charcoal, deep navy) to blend with the city’s all-black aesthetic.
- Accessorise with chunky silver jewellery or a statement bag for that Soho gallery opening vibe.
Miami Heat: Bold Colours and Resort-Ready Vibes
Miami doesn’t believe in subtle. Here, your Essentials Shorts can be white-hot, candy pink, or ocean blue — the brighter, the better. They’re worn with Cuban link chains, open shirts, and sunglasses at all hours (yes, even indoors). Influencers like Anwar Hadid and Bad Bunny have been seen rocking bold streetwear fits in the city, pairing shorts with bucket hats and slides for that chilled-but-still-stylish South Beach mood.
Miami Style Tip:
- Experiment with colour — pastel green, soft lilac, or even neon.
- Keep it light — linen shirts or mesh tops with your shorts.
- Footwear? Slides or retro trainers are your go-to.
Chicago Cool: Sporty Layers for Windy Days
Chicago fashion is functional but still trendy. Here, Essentials Shorts are teamed with hoodies, varsity jackets, and retro sports gear — perfect for unpredictable Midwest weather. Chicagoans love mixing basketball-court energy with urban grit, making these shorts a year-round favourite. Celebs like Chance the Rapper embody this sporty-meets-streetwear vibe.
Chicago Style Tip:
- Lean into athletic inspo — pair with high socks, graphic sweatshirts, and puffer vests.
- Stick with versatile tones like grey, khaki, or black.
- Layer strategically for quick weather changes.
Celebrity Influence: Why the Stars Can’t Get Enough
From Kanye West’s paparazzi-proof oversized fits to Zendaya’s effortlessly cool airport looks, celebrities are putting Essentials Shorts firmly in the fashion spotlight. They’re comfortable enough for travel days and stylish enough for street style snaps — the perfect balance of high fashion and low effort.
Even NBA stars have embraced them for off-duty looks — pairing the shorts with oversized hoodies, designer trainers, and the occasional luxury crossbody bag. The result? Essentials Shorts are no longer “just” loungewear — they’re a flex.
Gen Z’s Take: Gender-Neutral and TikTok-Trendy
If Millennials made streetwear mainstream, Gen Z made it inclusive. Essentials Shorts fit seamlessly into the gender-neutral movement — their oversized cut, minimal branding, and neutral palette make them wearable for everyone.
TikTok creators are styling them with everything from vintage knitwear to cropped tops, proving that these shorts are more than just “casual wear” — they’re a canvas for self-expression. And let’s be real — the hashtag #EssentialsShorts is basically a digital runway at this point.
Fashion Hacks: Making Your Essentials Shorts Stand Out
If you want your Essentials Shorts to pop in a sea of minimalist fits, try these hacks:
- Monochrome Mastery: Pair your shorts with an Essentials hoodie in the same shade for a sleek, co-ordinated look.
- Sock Game Strong: High socks with bold patterns or logos can instantly elevate your outfit.
- Layer Lightly: Throw an oversized flannel or denim jacket over your tee for instant style points.
- Statement Trainers: Let your footwear do the talking — chunky soles, vintage Jordans, or rare collabs work wonders.
Cultural Trends Driving the Essentials Shorts Craze
The rise of comfort-first fashion, post-pandemic, has made Essentials Shorts a no-brainer for the style-conscious. They tick all the boxes: minimalist branding, luxury streetwear appeal, and versatility.
They’ve also become a status symbol — not because they scream “expensive,” but because they whisper I know fashion. They align with the “quiet luxury” trend, where understated design speaks louder than flashy logos.
Final Word: A Streetwear Staple for Every Zip Code
From the sunny streets of LA to the sharp, layered looks of New York, Essentials Shorts prove that the same piece can be worn a hundred different ways — depending on your city, your mood, and your personal style.
Whether you’re sipping cold brew in Brooklyn, catching a sunset in Miami, or layering up in Chicago, these shorts are more than just summer wear — they’re a year-round, coast-to-coast essential.
If you don’t already own a pair, it might just be time to join the club.
