Bermuda, Bahamas, come on baby wanna ….

“Bermuda shorts! We’re gonna wear them forever…” We all know the Old Navy commercial where the whole gang gets together and sings about how much they love their Bermuda shorts from Old Navy, a la West Side Story — and isn’t it amazing how they somehow know all the words and dance moves to the song?

Old Navy may take their claim on commercializing the Bermudas, but the long-length shorts have been popular for centuries, dating back to…you guessed it: Bermuda!

Bermuda shorts were created in the 20th century for British military forces, although they soon became the lower half of the national dress code for Bermuda. Typically paired with a dark blazer, tie, dark, knee-high socks and shoes; male Bermudans wear this look anywhere from the business office to cocktail parties. You may recognize the outfit from the opening and closing ceremonies at the 2004 summer Olympic games.

They serve as the daily attire, evening wear, casual wear, walking wear, and even “digging in the garden wear,” according to one Web site. Must make for huge variety on the Bermuda fashion runway. Basically, shorts are the acceptable style of dress no matter where you are in the Pacific.

Bermuda shorts were specifically designed for men; women’s shorts were called “city shorts.” They were knee-length cut and styled similar to a pencil skirt. This means that the knee was tapered to create a more flattering look on women.

Even though Bermudans have been sporting this style for decades, why are they suddenly showing up on the runways, the local Gap, and even Target? There isn’t anywhere these Bermuda shorts won’t go.

The light suede and linen fabric that the traditional Bermuda shorts are made from makes them a big winner in any hot climate. They keep you cool while still looking stylish: similar to the effect of a cold beer.

As every designer and store competes for the client to purchase their Bermuda shorts, there really isn’t one bad pair. Although the price points of some shorts can certainly get up into the $200 range, there are plenty of options that hit below the belt.

Cassie King is a big fan of Gap’s Bermuda shorts. With a variety of colors to choose from – khaki, black, seersucker, and white – the $30 price tag made it a resounding yes. “They’re so comfortable,” the junior print journalism major said. “They’re not hot like jeans, and you don’t have to worry about them being too short or uncomfortable like [the standard] shorts.”

King frequently wears her shorts with sandals or flat slippers, and a tank top or polo short. “They’re casual for class, but you can dress them up for brunch,” she said.

Wary shoppers listen up: The cut of the Bermuda shorts (the tapering of the bottom) makes them look attractive on any wearer. They hide thighs while highlighting calves. Just what every boy is concerned about!

Also, if your work environment celebrates casual wear beyond Fridays, you can wear the shorts with a matching blazer for an updated and casual-but-chic suit. It’ll keep you cool in the hot Texas summer.

You can also wear the shorts with embellished flats or a simple tank (like my favorite, the ‘beater), and let the shorts speak for themselves, or pair them with a bling-bling top and some stilettos.

There are also some shorts that are a looser fit, appearing more like board shorts. These also look great with stilettos and a tight top

(just as long as the shorts don’t have “Billabong” emblazed on the sides).

Old Navy’s shorts range from $19.50 to $24.50, but the majority of the still relatively cheap shorts at other stores are around $39.50. Of course, designers like Trina Turk, Rebecca Taylor, and How & Wen have their shorts priced around a moderate $150.

Although the term “shorts” isn’t usually thought of when going out at night (especially to dinner), they really are the perfect option. When jeans will be too hot and it’s a little windy for a skirt, just slip on those Bermuda shorts, some stilettos, and a simple tank. Just catch yourself from singing the Old Navy tune.