In 2007, Orlebar Brown launched with a single idea: a swim short cut from the pattern of a traditional man's suit trouser. The trousers were precise. The water was Mediterranean. The combination was, by the standards of the era, slightly absurd and entirely the point. That short became the Bulldog, and the Bulldog became Orlebar Brown. Nineteen years on, the Bulldog is still our best-selling swim short, with a mid-length six-inch inseam and the signature side fasteners that let you adjust the waist without a belt.
Every Orlebar Brown swim short still begins with that idea: a swim short built with the precision of tailoring. Each tailored pair is constructed from over sixty individual components, finished with hand-attached side fasteners and a flat-fronted waistband, and made from recycled plastic without compromising the cut. We guarantee every pair for five years.
What makes Orlebar Brown swim shorts unique?
Our tailored swim shorts are based on the pattern of a traditional man's suit trouser, cut shorter and built to swim in. Each pair is made with over 60 individual components and recycled plastic, finished with signature side fasteners for a belt-free adjustable fit, and guaranteed for five years. Alongside the tailored line we offer relaxed styles - the Jack, Boxer and Mastiff - with fully-elasticated waistbands and rope drawcords. Designed in London, knitted in Italy, made in Portugal
How should I choose the right style of swim shorts?
We offer eight styles across four lengths. For tailored fits with side fasteners, choose the Setter (shorter), Bulldog (mid-length, six-inch inseam) or Dane (longest). For shorter, sharper proportions, the Springer. For a more relaxed fit with a fully elasticated waistband and drawcord, the Jack (shorter) or Boxer (mid-length) or Mastiff (longer-length). The Bulldog Drawcord sits between the two a tailored silhouette with a half-elasticated waistband for resort and beach-club wear.
What is the difference between Orlebar Brown's tailored and elasticated swim shorts?
Our tailored swim shorts (Setter, Bulldog, Dane) are built on a traditional suit-trouser pattern, with a flat front, signature side fasteners and over 60 components per pair. The elasticated styles (Jack, Boxer and Mastiff) have a fully elasticated waistband and rope drawcord with branded nickel-free cord ends, designed for a more relaxed fit and easy wear.
Are Orlebar Brown swim shorts suitable for all body types?
Yes. The range spans four lengths, eight styles and several fits, including tailored, classic, relaxed and drawcord shapes. The side fasteners on tailored styles, and the elasticated waistbands on relaxed styles, both allow for personal adjustment without needing a belt.
Are Orlebar Brown swim shorts quick-drying?
Yes. Our swim shorts are made from quick-drying recycled fabric, designed to take you from the water to lunch without changing.
Where can I wear Orlebar Brown swim shorts? They are designed to move from water to land. The pool in the morning, lunch by the sea, a drink at the beach club in the evening. Pair them with one of our shirts or polos for an easy holiday look.
Are Orlebar Brown swim shorts sustainable?
Each tailored pair is made from recycled plastic and over 60 individual components, designed for an exact, lasting fit. The five-year guarantee is part of that. Swim shorts built to be kept, not replaced. Orlebar Brown is a carbon neutral company, rebalancing carbon we emit through operations with Blue Carbon projects restoring coastal ecosystems with our partner SeaTrees.
