Mosseri endorses office shorts, 63% firms relax dress code

Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, has come out in favor of wearing shorts to work.

Mosseri made the comment on his own Instagram Story Wednesday, posting a photo of his lower half in navy shorts with a white shirt and brown shoes. The post was a response to a follower asking whether he should wear shorts to his internship. Mosseri wrote, “I’m pro shorts.” His endorsement comes as many offices relax dress codes that once banned shorts entirely. The shift reflects broader changes in workplace norms since the pandemic, when remote work blurred the lines between home and office attire. Companies from tech to finance have since updated policies to allow more casual dress, with some even embracing “summer Fridays” or year-round relaxed standards.

Professional stylist Jennifer Stoughton told Business Insider that wearing shorts can still look polished if done right. She recommends neutral tones like khaki, navy, or olive, and pairing them with a structured top and closed-toe shoes. Length matters too—shorts should hit mid-thigh or just above the knee. She also advises avoiding athletic wear or frayed denim. “It’s about balance,” she said. “Shorts can signal approachability without sacrificing professionalism.” The advice comes as younger workers entering the workforce increasingly prioritize comfort and authenticity over traditional office dress.

The debate over shorts in the office is part of a larger cultural shift toward flexibility in professional settings. Research from Deloitte shows that 63% of companies have relaxed dress codes since 2020, with 34% allowing shorts during warmer months. The move is also tied to talent retention, as employees—especially in competitive industries—expect greater autonomy over their appearance. As summer approaches, more companies are expected to clarify their policies, with some even adopting “shorts-friendly” guidelines. For workers unsure about the change, Mosseri’s stance may offer reassurance: what matters most is confidence, not the fabric between your legs.