There are, of course, a few rules that gents should adhere to when planning to don a pair of shorts in the office or elegant yet casual setting. Most importantly, leave something to the imagination. Smart casual shorts should neither be too short, too long, nor too tight – try to keep the length just above the mid-thigh. But when it comes to colour this season, it’s the brighter the better.

The Aros shorts, from Danish label Norse Projects, provide a colourful splash on the oft-muted palette of winter fashion. Available in the head-turning hues of Rust Red (pictured), Sunshine Yellow, Hedge Green and Wood Mustard, the five-pocket shorts look especially dapper when paired with a blazer.

Norse Projects was inspired by its original muse, the Norse Store, which is nestled in a Copenhagen side street alongside the city’s King’s Gardens. Channelling their passion for functionality and fusing the classic and the ultra modern, the folks behind Norse Projects create specialised menswear that blends traditional work and outdoor pieces with the avant garde.

Norse Projects is available from Dirtbox in Brisbane CBD, which will be moving into its new dwellings in the Wintergarden on April 3.