When the heat is oppressive, your wardrobe should be anything but. Enter linen shorts—the breezy, breathable short option that every guy needs in his summer rotation. A great pair does more than simply keep you ventilated on sunny afternoons. The natural rumpling and airy drape add intrigue and texture to simple summer fits, which comes in handy when you're working with fewer layers and less coverage.

But we're not talking about just any linen shorts. This season, we're favoring styles with a touch of European charm: relaxed silhouettes, pleated fronts, and a slightly elevated feel that works just as well at a beach bar as it does at brunch. Here are three of the best linen shorts for men right now—each offering a cool, continental vibe and the kind of effortless polish that makes staying comfortable look downright stylish.