Well, I can tell you from an activewear perspective why they're back in style—they're comfortable, they have great compression, and they're great for all different kinds of workouts, especially when it's hot out and you can't bear to wear leggings. Plus, a lot of us have been spending more and more time at home these days, and these shorts are just made for lounging in.
From a style angle, they are back in full force. Fashion girls are even wearing them with blazers and heels. Who What Wear senior market editor Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour says "shorts are the new skirts" and that the trend isn't going anywhere (and isn't just for lounging at home).
Well, there you have it. I'm starting to come around to the trend, and if you are too, I've rounded up some worthy picks to try below.