How My Dad Fell in Love with Silk Shorts, And Why Yours Might Too

I didn’t start designing silk loungewear for men until I was told to by our customers. Repeatedly.

When I first started Soft Strokes Silk, about 99% of our customers were women. I’m not saying 100% because some first names are unisex. 

That’s what I expected. Like many others, I thought men didn’t like silk, believing they thought the material too shiny, too delicate and too smooth.

I was wrong. One after another, people began messaging me asking for men’s trunks and shorts. First, we introduced men’s trunks in silk charmeuse. Apparently, men don’t mind the shininess when it comes to underwear. They actually love how smooth the fabric is. I guess we’re not that different after all.

Then, last summer we introduced men’s shorts in silk crepe and sueded silk charmeuse. Both have a matte finish, meaning people won’t know you are wearing silk, but you do. A customer even messaged us asking why this silk is so “incredibly soft” against their skin.

I began gifting them around, as these shorts make for very convenient Father’s Day and birthday gifts. My dad, who has never owned anything in silk in his life, called me after opening his gift.

“I’m very satisfied with the shorts,” he said, using a familiar formal tone that’s become a habit from his days being a lawyer. “Which fabric is this? I’ve never worn anything like this before.”

“It’s silk,” I replied.

There was a stunned silence and I could sense the confusion even through the phone. Then he said hesitantly, “But it’s not shiny?”

“No, it’s not,” I explained, “Suedes silk charmeuse has been sand washed, so it lost the shine while becoming super soft.”

“I love them!” he claimed. “It’s so soft, breathable and cool in summer.”

“Glad you do. Sueded silk is also safe to wash in the washing machine. You are welcome.”

That’s how I knew these shorts are not just safe Father’s Day gifts, they’re great ones. 

Because people don’t say “no” to comfort.