By this point in the summer, you very well might feel you’ve exhausted your options as far as the best summer style essentials go. After all, there’s only so many times you can reach for one of the best men’s T-shirts or even a pair of the best men’s shorts without it all feeling a bit routine, right?

I’m here to tell you that’s not always the case, especially if you shop one of my favorite brands of the moment: The good folks at Faherty Brand have delivered perhaps your new favorite pair of shorts, with just enough stylish tweaks to make ’em feel fresh, breezy and utterly cool.

It also goes without saying that Faherty is as reliable a resource as any for one of the best summer shirts, so what could be a better complementary piece than new shorts in a fresh cut? There’s not much, particularly when casual style situations come calling — that goes for BBQs, backyard hangs, brewery beers and coastal getaways, and the Faherty Essential Italian Knit Cord Shorts are practically an essential selection.

For starters, the Faherty Essential Italian Knit Cord Shorts take retro style cues and bring them forward into the 21st century, using details like a shorter, flattering 6-inch inseam as the canvas for some throwback-inspired shorts.

Coastal style inspiration makes these some seriously stylish shorts for men, and the use of knit cord made from organic cotton gives them nice texture and a light, soft and even stretchy feel. Best of all is the fact that they feature an elastic drawcord waist for plenty of comfort.

And yet, folks needn’t be any the wiser that you’re going belt-less, at least if your T-shirt or polo hits at or slightly below that waistband. The Faherty Essential Italian Knit Cord Shorts also cover off nicely in matters of style, what with a range of flattering color options ranging from earth tones to a dusty pink and a handsome cream color.

Comfort and variety remain the name of the game when it comes to these stylish cord shorts, which are just different enough from modern chino shorts to add some fresh style to your wardrobe — yes, even in the summer heat. Happy shopping out there, my friends.