
I Don't Golf. But I Love These Surprisingly Stylish Golf Shorts.
And then there are the social implications of wearing shorts — as a man, you're told that bare legs are somehow unacceptable in almost any scenario except when you're working out or playing sports, or that shorts are not for men at all, but for children. That, along with the annual salvo of think pieces about the office-appropriateness of shorts, was enough to make me and many others shy away entirely. 'A don doesn't wear shorts,' you tell yourself as you put on black jeans in the middle of summer.
But after I endured several consecutive summers of heat waves with the temperature piercing the 100-degree mark, something inside me broke. Something needed to change. It was, finally, time for shorts.
What I wanted seemed impossible to find: a pair of shorts that I would feel as natural in as I did in denim.
After an exhaustive search and a lot of disappointment, the only shorts I now reach for all summer are Puli Men's Golf Shorts. I am not a golfer, but these affordable 7-inch shorts allow me to feel the summer breeze on my legs while also looking good in just about any situation.
When I've looked for shorts in the past, many of them have, well, fallen short. Cotton-twill chino shorts look good, but they can retain sweat and wear really hot, defeating the purpose of shorts. Linen shorts are great for days of high heat and humidity, but quality linen can be expensive, affordable linen can wear out quickly, and linen wrinkles in ways that can make it look sloppy on day two or three.
Patagonia Baggies have been particularly popular as of late, but they swish loudly, have little stretch, and look more like swim trunks than shorts with the thoughtful, deliberate styling of something like jeans.
Puli's golf shorts are made from a blend of polyester and elastane and combine the best qualities of each of those other options without any of their pitfalls: The Puli shorts have the appearance of cotton twill, the fast dry time of Baggies, and the airiness of linen shorts. Puli's golf shorts have a cotton-like appearance that makes them suitable for wear in a variety of settings. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
The great thing about golf shorts is that by design they are made to abide by golf-course dress codes while also providing mobility and moisture management.
Unlike most other golf shorts, however, which are often made from knitted elastic fabric, Puli's golf shorts look deceptively like woven cotton. That's what drew me to these shorts to begin with; I was looking for lightweight, twill shorts that still retained some features of athletic shorts to get me through the hottest days of August. And Puli's shorts were some of the very few I found in this category that did not have any water-repellent finish (which usually contains PFAS).
They're also some of the most affordable golf shorts available. At roughly $25 on Amazon, these shorts are from half to a quarter of the price of comparable shorts from Bonobos and Lululemon, few of which hide their athletic nature nearly as well.
In the right light, Puli's shorts have a subtle sheen that can betray their polyester composition, but in most settings they look indistinguishable from cotton. Their fabric creases like cotton, rather than forming fine wrinkles as athletic shorts often do. However, unlike cotton, which provides suboptimal sun protection, Puli's shorts are rated UPF 50+.
Puli's blend of polyester and elastane gives the shorts a subtle flex. They are pliant enough that you can sit in them comfortably for long periods of time without feeling like you're wearing spandex.
This fabric, in addition to the elastic-lined waistband, makes them suitable for more strenuous physical activity — I've worn them while kayaking and playing tennis. The shorts have a hidden zip pocket that keeps things like keys from falling out if you're moving around. The quick-drying material also makes them decent swim trunks in a pinch (though they lack a liner, so proceed with caution). The discreet zip pocket is large enough to store my iPhone 13. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter This smaller zipped pocket in the back is great for keys or small items. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter The elastic waistband adds a subtle stretch that keeps everything comfortable even over long days. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter The discreet zip pocket is large enough to store my iPhone 13. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
By far my favorite thing about these shorts is the pockets. Rather than going with the typical, fabric-lined pockets, Puli uses only mesh for its pockets. That creates a ton of airflow, keeping these shorts breezy even on the hottest of days. The mesh pockets keep these shorts airy. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
Puli's shorts have a higher, 10.5-inch rise and a relatively short, 7-inch inseam, which together make them look a little more stylish than standard-issue cotton chinos and athletic shorts.
All of those features make Puli's shorts an excellent one-short for summer trips. Save for formal occasions, I have been able to use these shorts to put together a week's worth of outfits, and they look crisp even at the tail end of that week. If they ever get dirty, I can wash them in the sink, and they'll be dry by the next morning.
Perhaps not all of my discomfort with wearing shorts has vanished, but thanks to these, I am hardly ever reminded of it. These shorts work just as well with loafers as they do with sandals by the pool. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter The poly fabric is breathable but still suitable for wearing on cool nights with layers. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter These shorts go well with outfits that are half a step above athletic. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter These shorts work just as well with loafers as they do with sandals by the pool. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
There are a few things I'd change about these shorts. First, the stitching is a bit wonky in places, and the thread seems to have little flex. That, in combination with the somewhat stretchy fabric, means the fabric can stretch beyond the elastic limits of the threads holding the garment together, causing those threads to pop. That hasn't happened to me yet, but I would not be surprised if it did.
Second, although these shorts come in about a dozen colors, they don't come in a true, dark olive or any fun, gaudy colors you might want for a tennis court, like teal. Those two colors, along with the black pair I already own, would probably be the end of all the shorts I need.
These shorts are also a little less beefy than some of their counterparts. You won't find silky-smooth and robust YKK zippers or hefty buttons here. That isn't enough to put me off them, but those small things accumulate and detract from the overall feel, and I would happily pay slightly more for something just a touch more substantial. That said, something about their cheapness makes me feel like I can freely wear them without any care for what happens. The shorts have a cheap, small-toothed zipper and a lightweight plastic button, neither of which feels durable. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter Loose stitches that weren't trimmed are visible here and there. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter The shorts have a cheap, small-toothed zipper and a lightweight plastic button, neither of which feels durable. Alexander Aciman/NYT Wirecutter
I am no longer fussy about wearing shorts when the weather begins to peak. It is an easy decision for me now, one that I can make in full confidence that I will be comfortable and look good and not feel less myself. After next season, my original black pair will likely be due for a replacement — something will rip or tear or fade, and I will hardly be bothered at the thought of parting with another $25 for the only shorts that have ever felt as effortless as jeans.
This article was edited by Hannah Rimm and Maxine Builder. The right running gear can help you make the most of your training. After extensive research and testing with passionate runners, here's what we recommend.
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Travel + Leisure
a day ago
- Travel + Leisure
The 9 Best Slippers for Men of 2025, Tested and Reviewed
Today, many models blend traditional slipper features like soft, cozy linings with the traction and durability of an outdoor shoe or sneaker. To find the best options, we tested 11 pairs of men's slippers while relaxing at home, doing our daily routines, and venturing outside (if intended for outdoor use). We assessed fit, comfort, design, quality, and value for each pair over several months of testing. Our overall favorite is a durable wool slipper, but many others stood out for their style, warmth, and ease of use. A quality pair of slippers can make all the difference in feeling comfortable. And if, like me, you wear slippers as house shoes, you'll clock more hours in them than virtually any other footwear. At a minimum, slippers should provide support and warmth to allow for extended wear. I appreciate a slipper that's easy to slip on but that also stays on without much effort while walking. To get year-round use without the risk of sweaty feet, I tend to choose wool designs over synthetic materials for reliable warmth that doesn't sacrifice breathability. The Vionic Men's Gustavo Slippers are designed with ergonomic comfort in mind. The EVA midsoles offer arch support and reduce impact on the feet, making these a solid choice for combating foot pain and plantar fasciitis. The footbed and interior are lined with plush faux shearling, which we found breathable enough to avoid overheating. We appreciate that the enclosed heel and snug fit keep our feet in place to get the most from the integrated arch support. Still, the secure fit didn't prevent us from slipping them on and off with ease. While the style and suede upper lean toward indoor wear, the rubber outsole has sufficient tread and volume for outdoor use in the right conditions. Equipped with cushy fleece lining and sturdy rubber outsoles, the VeraCosy Men's Corduroy Scuff Slippers deliver comfort and functionality at a great value. The corduroy material used in the upper stood out for its softness and durability. We were also impressed by the breathability, heel support, and cushioning in the footbed while wearing these for hours at a time in 75-degree weather. The rubber outsole was sufficiently grippy and supportive on tile and hardwood floors alike. They're easy to slip on and off, but we found ourselves needing to scrunch our toes at times to keep the feet from sliding. We recommend sizing up if you're at the higher end of one of the size ranges. The Lucrin Leather Slippers are an upgrade in style and comfort from the typical house shoe. They slipped on with ease and were enjoyable to wear right out of the box. The leather upper felt durable without being overly stiff, providing enough flex to walk in them comfortably. We were impressed with the breathability of these leather slippers in warmer weather and how well the suede soles gripped different indoor surfaces. The thin and lightweight materials also stood out to us for their packability. We appreciate that the Lucrins grant a great deal of customization to select a design that best suits one's style preferences: they're available in smooth or pebbled leather and up to 23 colors. On the other end, the sizing is limited to three sizes (medium, large and extra-large) and requires conversion from EU to U.S. sizes (though there is a helpful size chart on the website). The suede soles didn't feel the most durable at first, but we'll continue to test for durability over the next six months. We love the classic and cozy design of the Wicked Good Moccasins. The plush shearling lining felt soft on the skin and provided quality insulation and moisture-wicking capabilities, ensuring our feet remained dry and at a comfortable temperature while wearing throughout the day. They stayed securely on our feet and they were very easy to slip on and off without using our hands. While the rawhide laces are more about aesthetics than functionality, they can help adjust the fit if needed. The thick rubber outsoles performed well in terms of traction on vinyl, hardwood, and cement alike. We were also impressed with the construction quality, with no signs of wear after wearing these around the house, outside, and taking them on vacation. However, the suede uppers give us pause on wearing the slippers outdoors on grass or in any scenario where they might get wet. The OluKai Moloas are a fashionable, yet functional, leather slipper that can be worn to relax at home or on the go. We found the lining incredibly soft on the skin, while the Merino wool footbeds provided excellent arch support and cushioning. The construction quality is evident throughout, from the stitching to the waxed Nubuck leather (available in several hues). The matte finish on the leather gives them a casual, but refined feel. The Moloas feature OluKai's signature drop-in heel, letting them be worn as a slip-on or loafer-style slipper depending on the occasion. We appreciate that the unmarked rubber outsoles are easy on indoor surfaces while providing enough durability for outdoor wear. A toasty pair of slippers is essential for enduring winter weather and mustering up the willpower to emerge from bed on chilly mornings. Equipped with soft fleece lining and parka-like insulation, the North Face Thermoball Mule V's deliver reliable warmth, even when temperatures drop below freezing. We found the fleece-lined upper collar to be adequately snug, yet comfortable, on the ankles to prevent heat loss. The rubber outsole performed well on a variety of outdoor surfaces, including loose rocks, dirt, and grass. We could see ourselves taking these camping or skiing, given their warmth and durability. For indoor use or milder temperatures, we appreciate that the collapsible heel allows them to be worn as a slide instead. The Birkenstock Boston Shearlings up the cozy factor on the brand's popular Boston Clogs while still delivering the same quality and functionality. The shearling lining made these among the most comfortable slippers we've ever worn, but keep in mind that the plush material can cause a tighter fit initially, until the suede upper is broken in. However, the quality construction makes us think they'll give us reliable comfort for years to come. We were impressed with how easily they slip on and stay in place. Between the contoured footbed and adjustable strap, our feet didn't shift at all while walking around. We're big fans of the arch support provided by the footbeds, too, making these a pair we depend on for all-day wear. While the EVA outsole is suited to variable surfaces, the suede upper limits their outdoor use in rain or snow. The Ugg Men's Scuffs were comfortable to wear right out of the box. We love how the wool lining feels against the skin, plus the warmth it provides without overheating our feet. The backless design makes them a breeze to slip on, yet they remain securely in place while walking—so much so that we had to make a deliberate effort to take them off our feet. While there isn't any integrated arch support, the foam footbed and cushion afforded by the lining are adequate support for walking around the house. We were impressed by the traction of the suede outsole on slick surfaces, including laminate flooring, as well as carpet. The suede upper is available in several colors, and we appreciate the broad range of sizes Ugg offers. I've worn these for nearly a year, and the wool design has ensured they are breathable enough to wear year-round. The material also helps keep odor at bay. We appreciate that the wool mix is sourced from farms in Denmark and New Zealand that have certified standards for quality and animal welfare. The minimalist style and numerous color options make them a versatile slipper for wearing with pajamas or dressed up—they're my go-to house shoes when hosting dinner parties. Though the leather soles are best suited for indoor use, this Glerup design is also available with a rubber outsole, but at a higher price point. Hailing from Denmark, the Glerups shoe truly embodies the Danish concept of hygge, which refers to a feeling of quiet comfort and contentment from the smaller joys of life. They're constructed from 100 percent wool (aside from the leather sole) and don't include plush shearling or faux fur lining. While I had some initial skepticism about the wool's softness, I found that they were quite comfy to wear barefoot right out of the box. They continue getting softer and more contoured to my feet with each wear. While there isn't integrated arch support, the ergonomic design, elevated cuff, and broken-in fit help support the feet. They are meant to form to the shape of your foot, so they're best worn without socks. Other Men's Slippers We Liked There were two other pairs of men's slippers that were worth consideration for their cozy design and plush materials. However, they didn't earn a spot on our list due to concerns about support and breathability. Bombas Men's Sunday Slipper: We love the warmth and softness of the fleece-like lining and their slip-resistant sole. Even so, the bulkier design makes them less packable, and we wish they had more heel support. Dearfoams Men's Fireside by Dearfoams Grafton Genuine Shearling Clog Slipper: Though we were fans of the grippy sole and plush faux fur interior, we found that our feet overheated easily and that the suede upper was prone to water spots. Our Testing Process The Travel + Leisure team tested 11 pairs of men's slippers in real-world settings over several weeks to find the best options for different styles, uses, and budgets. We started our assessment when we unboxed them to get an initial impression of the materials and construction quality. We paid special attention to the stitching, fabric, and any extra features like laces and straps. Then, we wore each pair a minimum of three times during an initial two-week testing period. From kicking back on the couch and working from home to daily house chores and outdoor activities, we tested them in a variety of settings. To assess the fit, we took stock of how well they stayed on our feet and the effort required to put them on and take them off. We also evaluated softness, cushioning, arch and heel support, and break-in period to rank their comfort. Key design elements, such as the traction, breathability, packability, and durability for indoor or outdoor use were considered throughout testing. At the end of our initial testing period, we inspected the slippers to make note of any signs of wear and tear. We will continue testing each pair for six months to give an update on their performance and durability. Tips for Buying Slippers for Men Consider the Style Slipper style involves both aesthetics and functionality. When and where you plan to wear the slippers is part of the picture. Many slippers on this list can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. In terms of functionality, backless designs like mules and slides boast convenience and air flow, but often at the cost of support and a secure fit. Opting for a moccasin-, clog-, or loafer-style slipper might be better suited for heat retention and extended wear, especially beyond the confines of home. Look at the materials Appearances aside, the materials used in slippers have implications for their comfort and durability. While suede uppers can provide an elevated style, they're vulnerable to water damage if worn outside. If you're primarily after a pair to cozy up on the couch with, more breathable materials like wool or shearling and a softer sole could be ideal. For an outdoor slipper, I look for a rubber outsole with treads that can provide the necessary traction while protecting the lining and upper material from the ground. Prioritize comfort There's some degree of personal taste when it comes to comfort, so it's important to prioritize comfort-oriented features that are geared toward your intended use and preferences. If your feet run cold, plusher materials and warmth may be top of mind. Whereas those prone to sweaty feet might value lighter materials or a backless design that supports breathability. I tend to wear slippers throughout the day if I'm at home, so I look for some level of arch support or an ergonomic fit that prevents my feet from sliding around. I also value a cushioned or foam footbed for indoor slippers to provide some padding between my feet and hard surfaces underfoot. For outdoor slippers, I prefer a sturdier outsole for enhanced shock absorption. Frequently Asked Questions How to choose the perfect fit for men's slippers? Slippers may run big or small depending on the brand, so it's recommended to read customer reviews and any guidance on whether they fit true to size. Whether you plan to wear socks with slippers should also factor into your decision on sizing. Given the more relaxed nature of slippers, sizing up if you're between sizes may be a safer bet for getting the right fit. What are the warmest slippers for cold feet for men? The North Face Thermoball Mule V's proved to be the warmest slippers on our list, as they are designed with parka-like insulation and fleece-lined heel cuffs to trap in heat. They're also geared for indoor and outdoor use. If you're after warm outdoor slippers, look for wool or water-resistant synthetic materials that won't lose their insulating capabilities if they get wet. For indoor use, faux-fur linings can also deliver warmth, but often at the cost of breathability. Why Trust Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure contributor, Kevin Brouillard, is based in upstate New York, where he spends most of the year dressed for comfort in the cold. His work has been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster. For this story, he used his firsthand experience with several of the brands on this list, including Glerups and The North Face, plus T+L testing insights to compile this list of the best men's slippers. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.


New York Times
2 days ago
- New York Times
We Need to Talk About the $75 Tank Air Tank Top
A few testers, myself included, were taken aback by just how tiny the tanks looked out of the box. But don't fret: The fabric has plenty of stretch. Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter The Studio Tank and the Half Moon Halter (and a few other basics from Tank Air) are made of the same fabric, a blend of 88% polyester and 12% spandex. That fabric makeup is one of the main gripes that have surfaced in the Tank Air social media discourse, as polyester has a reputation for being cheaper in comparison with natural fibers such as cotton or silk. But in the hand, with just one smooth layer, it feels soft and substantial — as thick as a double-lined tank might feel. It certainly doesn't feel cheap. But that doesn't necessarily mean it's great quality. The fabric composition is 88% polyester 12% spandex (for reference, many leggings range from around 10% to 30% spandex). Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter To assess the fabric quality, I brought both tanks into the office of Preeti Gopinath, a textile designer and associate professor of textiles at Parsons School of Design in New York City. After feeling the tops and inspecting both their fabric and finishings, Gopinath said they are made with 'high-quality' polyester and knit in a very tight, compact manner. That tight knit, combined with the thickness of the polyester, is responsible for the tank tops' contouring effect and their ability to hold their shape after multiple wears. The edges and seams are finished neatly, both of which are signs of a well-made garment, she said. Based on her initial inspection, Gopinath said these tank tops have the potential to last quite a while, but she noted that longevity would require proper care. (According to the tag, you should machine-wash the tops on a delicate cycle and lay them flat or hang them to dry.) Functionally, the fabric also fared well against summer heat. Even in the humid New York City weather, this tank kept me relatively cool and dry considering how thick the fabric is. The polyester material effectively pulled sweat from my skin and allowed it to evaporate quickly, preventing the heavy, damp feeling I often experience with my 100% cotton tank tops. The tanks also survived multiple washes (and one accidental trip to the dryer) without pilling or losing their compressive shape. However, like many other articles made of soft fabrics, these tanks attracted lint and fuzz, which required occasional removal between wears. We haven't tested these tops for enough time to speak to their longevity, but they did resist initial wear and tear, feeling as good as new after a few weeks of consistent wear and washing. The compressive, body-hugging fit is comparable to that of an athletic tank top or ultra-comfortable shapewear but with a soft matte finish that gives it a more elevated look. 'It didn't, at all, look athletic-y or Spanx-y — there was none of that sheen that really bothers me,' said Wirecutter deputy director of newsletters and audience Sofia Sokolove. Every tester noted the body-hugging sensation as a win; one described it as 'waist-cinching,' and another deemed it 'shapely.' Some people hope that compressive tops like these can eliminate the need for a bra, and for the most part the Studio Tank delivered in that regard. All of the testers said the Studio Tank supported their chest even without a bra. Some considered the gentle support appropriate for wearing to the office, while others said it was acceptable only for more casual settings. Two panelists tested the white color (which Tank Air calls 'milk' on its website) and while one found it to be slightly see-through when worn without a bra, the other said it was perfectly opaque. The Half Moon Halter, however, didn't provide quite as much support or coverage as the Studio Tank, especially for testers with larger busts. Whether these tanks are fit for bra-less wear is ultimately a personal choice, but our panel did find the fabric to be quite supportive for a tank top, and the Studio Tank didn't reveal too much cleavage. Some people might argue these tops are too plain for the cost, but during testing our panel found their simple style to be a real benefit. Their straightforward design makes them especially easy to integrate into any wardrobe, improving their potential cost-per-wear. We tried them with everything from jeans and slacks to shorts and skirts, and they looked great worn alone (channeling a '90s minimalist vibe) or layered under button-ups and sweaters. Plus, the tanks come in a range of fun colors (something our panel enjoyed), should black or white seem too boring for a simple silhouette. The Studio Tank rode up as I walked. I have a long torso, so this unfortunately is pretty common with slightly cropped tops. But if you too have a long torso, take note. Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter The most common complaint testers expressed concerned the slightly cropped length, which falls somewhere between a true crop (which typically hits around the waist) and standard full-length. That crop caused fabric bunching around the waist for some testers and quickly became a nuisance for them to keep pulling down. 'It was a really, really awkward length for me — too long to be a crop top but too short and not stretchy enough on the bottom to fit over my hips,' said editor Hannah Rimm, whose waist is significantly more narrow than her hips. Personally, I found the tanks to be slightly too short for my long torso. They hit just below my belly button, which would be fine if they stayed put, but as I walked, the bunching began. For other testers, like Sofia, the length was just right: 'It hugged in all the right places and hit at exactly the right length,' she said, adding that it was long enough to wear with work-appropriate pants without showing midriff but not so long that it overlaid low-rise jeans or shorts. Whether this tank works for you depends on your body and your preferences, but getting the right size, of course, can help. If you're not sure what size to order, I suggest taking Tank Air up on its offer to help: According to the Studio Tank product page, you can send an email with your bust, waist, and height measurements to info@ and the company can assist in finding the right size for you. We, however, didn't test this service. The straps aren't adjustable, but they are quite stretchy. Hannah Frye/NYT Wirecutter Both tank tops have pre-fixed — but stretchy — straps. In terms of comfort, the Studio Tank fared well with those pre-fixed straps, but the Half Moon Halter less so; multiple testers, especially those with larger busts, wished for an adjustable tie-halter instead of the pre-fixed length. With halter tops, it's generally a bit harder to nail the perfect fit, and adjustability would have helped those testers find the right balance of support for their chest. That said, for some of our testers the lack of adjustable plastic clips on the Studio Tank earned style points. One of the common queries online is whether these tank tops are worth their $75 price tag. The answer depends on a few factors. To understand what goes into making these tops, I spoke with Claire Robertson-Macleod, the founder of Tank Air. She's aware of the consumer skepticism concerning polyester, she said, but she stands by her choice for the sake of performance. 'We tested a bunch of fabrics, including those with natural fibers, but this one was so superior,' she said, explaining that the polyester fabric stood out for its compressive fit, durability over time, and colorfastness. Her goal was to make a tank top that would be in a customer's weekly rotation and stay nice for years to come. If these tank tops do last many years, as Gopinath suspects and as the brand founder says, they may be well worth $75. That's especially true for people who frequently wear tank tops of this style and find themselves regularly replacing old ones that are faded or stretched out. NYT Wirecutter But, quality aside, for an expensive item such as the Tank Air, it's important to consider how often you'll wear a tank top like this. While it may be a wear-anytime staple for many people, it doesn't make sense in everyone's wardrobe. If you rarely wear tank tops like this — spaghetti straps, slightly cropped, body-hugging — it might not be worth spending $75 on. But if you have a graveyard of once-vibrant close-fitting tank tops living in your pajama drawer, it might be time to consider investing in a category you wear so often. And if the piece lasts longer, you could save money in the long run. Personally, as a frequent tank top wearer, I know that if I were to add up the price of my cheaper and shorter-lived tank tops from the past few years, the total would be well over $75. Although this tank isn't quite long enough for me to purchase myself, I wouldn't be opposed to investing in a longer version should one come out someday. It's comfortable, the fabric feels great, and the simple look is a perfectly versatile fit for my wardrobe. So if you're in the same boat, I'd say that the Tank Air Studio Tank is worth considering. While it is undeniably expensive, it could finally help you get off the unsustainable merry-go-round of frequently buying and discarding cheap, short-lived tanks. This article was edited by Hannah Rimm and Maxine Builder. Shapewear has deservedly gotten a bad rap. We were determined to find better options, and—after extensive testing—emerged with seven (actually comfortable) winners. After carefully scrutinizing fit, feel, quality, and style, we found four white tees that are the best suited for a variety of occasions and body types. Timeless and versatile, jeans are a key player in any wardrobe. We found ten pairs that fit a range of body types, tastes, and budgets. What I Cover Hannah Frye is a staff writer reporting on beauty and style for Wirecutter. She was previously an editor at Mindbodygreen. She has been using skin-care items since she was 11 (which, she says, is a fact, not a recommendation). When she isn't making new Pinterest boards or shopping for vintage clothes on eBay, she's testing vegan recipes in her Brooklyn apartment.

Refinery29
24-07-2025
- Refinery29
Sydeon Joins New Balance As Gaming Ambassador — And I'm Already Influenced
If you've ever peeped Sydeon's Instagram feed, you know her love for New Balance isn't just for show. So it tracks that the Twitch streamer and content creator has officially joined the brand as its second gaming ambassador — and she's already putting in the work. 'I have put all of my friends onto this shoe. It's the 1906L. It's like a sneaker loafer,' the creator and Twitch streamer tells me. 'It was one of the first things that I asked for when [New Balance and I] started talking about our partnership. I was like, 'Look, the shoe is sold out everywhere. I can't find it in any of the colorways. If you happen to have an extra one, like please.'' Her excitement is so convincing that mid-answer I find myself (somewhat unprofessionally) Googling this mythical mashup of footwear. Yes, it is cool. And now I want a pair, I tell her. Advertisement ADVERTISEMENT Authentic brand–creator partnerships are like a good outfit: effortless, memorable, and sells itself. For Sydeon, although she's made a name for herself streaming gameplay on Twitch, her content has always reflected her broader interests in fashion and lifestyle, whether she's cosplaying as Rogue from X-Men, giving a wig tutorial, or travel vlogging foodie adventures overseas. Which makes it that much easier for a brand like New Balance to sign on. 'New Balance has this really unique outlook on their brand and on culture and just craftsmanship and individualism and all those things,' Sydeon says, 'and I think that kind of lined up with me as a streamer as well.' Ahead, Sydeon shares her thoughts on personal style, makes the case that cosplay is fashion, and offers tips on how to successfully partner with brands. Refinery29: How would you describe your personal style and how does it align with New Balance? I like to mix a lot of different things. I really love both feminine and masculine pieces together so I'll wear a really cute frilly top and then baggy pants and sneakers. I also really just go based off of mood. Sometimes I want a sort of athleisure look and sometimes I want to be really feminine and have lots of floral pieces. So it's kind of all over the place, like, I would say, I am as a content creator. New Balance is just all about being authentic, being yourself, being an individual, and they have so many different pieces that fit that mold. You have something like a sneaker loafer and then you have your everyday walking shoe, and then you also have really functional things for hiking or for basketball or whatever it is. New Balance has something for everyone and I like to be a little bit of everything in my personal style. Advertisement ADVERTISEMENT More and more brands are getting into the world of gaming. Where do you see that intersection of fashion and gaming going? I think the intersection of fashion and gaming is really at the beginning of its peak. There are so many gamers and content creators who have such a love for fashion and a lot of gamers and content creators are becoming more mainstream. You see people who have loved games and have maybe been quiet about them in the past because it wasn't as cool, and you find out now that everybody has loved games as much as they have loved fashion and sports and stuff. It feels like it's become one of the mainstream things now, which is really exciting because you get opportunities like this with New Balance. I feel like some people who aren't in the world of anime or cosplay or gaming see cosplay as more costume than fashion or art. To those haters or skeptics, how would you defend cosplay as fashion? I think cosplay is self-expression in a very niche form. Oftentimes people look at cosplay and they're like, "Oh, you're just dressing up in costumes, but it's not Halloween." Yada yada. Cosplay for me and for a lot of other people is craftsmanship. It is sitting down for hours and working on something, building something from hand, from scratch, altering things and I think a lot of people kind of forego the idea cuz it feels like silly costumes, but it takes a lot of the same craftsmanship as fashion does. Some of my favorite cosplayers do cosplay in a way that really meshes well with fashion because they'll take their character and then [remake it]. What if this was casual? What if they were just wearing something on the street? What would they look like? Advertisement ADVERTISEMENT Who are some of your favorite cosplayers? One of my favorites since the dawn of time is Snitchery and she's one of my favorite people to watch change throughout the industry. I've been following her probably since like 2018 or something like that and I remember she used to do just portrait cosplay and now I'm seeing her at every world premiere for every movie and she always comes dressed according to the movie but in a fashion sense. Yeah! Then of course Stella Chu is another cosplayer I love. She's in LA and she's worked with me before on cosplay. She's really sweet and she's super talented. Like her warehouse is just full of 3D printers and stuff everywhere. I'd love to get your two cents as someone who has built a career off of creating and streaming. Once you've built that community, how do you branch out from your usual lane with a new partnership or a new project that's maybe outside of how your audience usually knows you? I think it's really important to explore a lot of different avenues and I think that I'm lucky that my personality just has always allowed me to do that. I think it's a little bit scary when it feels like, 'Oh, my audience is so used to me sitting down and playing the same game every day for 12 hours. What are they going to think when they find out that I've partnered with a brand like New Balance?' Where it's like, 'Oh, I didn't know you were interested in that kind of thing.' Except my community definitely knows. I talk about fashion and sneakers and stuff like that all the time. Advertisement ADVERTISEMENT But maybe if a community wasn't [aware], I think it's just fun to challenge yourself and challenge the people around you, your community, and I think you'd be really surprised how many people are interested in the same things as you. Because people are multi-faceted. They might enjoy gaming, but they probably enjoy so many other things and I think it's always worth taking the risk. And even if it doesn't work out, you tried something that was authentic to you and that's what matters the most. What are some tips you have for creators who are looking to work more with brands? For a creator who's looking to work more with brands, obviously being brand-friendly is one of those pretty important things. I think if that falls in line with who you are as a creator, then it's great to be on that route. I think that when you are yourself and your genuine interests are out there, brands will take notice. I'm not a brand, but if I were, I would probably be really excited if I saw someone who was genuinely excited about what I already do, you know? This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. For more stories like this, sign up for our Good Game newsletter . Advertisement ADVERTISEMENT