While I agree that the shield tips often look best with slacks, rather than shorts, I do wear mine with shorts occasionally. I think any of the "classic" combinations are always appropriate, depending on the clothes one is wearing. That said, I've got to admit that some of TNT's combinations, GTJacket's tan and brown, and Don's silver metallic with pearl lizard are really sharp. The bottom line--if you like the look, go for it!