Frankster vs Assembly Label: A Tale of Two Shorts Brands
Assembly Label's got their brief down pat: go to their Byron Bay store or browse the site, and you can easily envision yourself living in a sun-kissed apartment in Coogee, surrounded by linen everything, muted tones and that effortlessly chic coastal minimalist vibe that kills it on Instagram.
The thing with aesthetics, though, is that you can't wear them. It comes to a point where those aesthetic linen shorts actually need to survive summer. They need to handle trips to the pub, the beach, and backyard games of cricket. They need pockets large enough to fit your phone.
Most importantly, they need to look as good in month six as they did in week one.
While Assembly has been perfecting the coastal lifestyle aesthetic since 2011, here at Melbourne-based brand Frankster, we have been quietly obsessed with creating shorts that actually work.
Two Brands With Two Very Different Focuses
Assembly Label: The Coastal Lifestyle Brand
Assembly Label is a lifestyle brand that just so happens to sell shorts alongside linen shirts, wool blazers, slip dresses and even homeware: basically, everything that goes with that coastal aesthetic.
Assembly sells men's shorts made from linen, cotton twill, denim and corduroy, all retailing from $80 - $100. The style is undoubtedly great, with clean lines, a relaxed fit, and neutral tones.
However, when brands create products across multiple categories, there are always going to be compromises.
On Product Review, Assembly has a 1.8/5-star rating based on 36 reviews, all sharing a similar story:
- "My linen pants fell apart at the seam after only one wear."
- "T-shirts stretch out after only one wear."
- "Quality has declined since 2019."
Even loyal customers have picked up on the change. One person wrote, "Original Assembly (pre-2019) was amazing. My last few purchases, I have already thrown away/donated."
Frankster: The Shorts Specialists
At Frankster, we have taken a different route: no shirts, only shorts.
There are just five styles resulting from thousands of fit tests on real Aussie blokes. Each and every design decision came back to the question, “How can we improve these shorts?”
The end result is an average rating of 4.85/5 based on over 2,000 verified customer reviews. Customers have described them as "the best-fitting shorts I've ever had" and have come back to buy anywhere from three to eight pairs.
If your business is built around one single product, the shorts have to perform.
Fabric Choices
Fabrics Used by Assembly
Assembly primarily focuses on using natural fibres. Their linen shorts are both aesthetically pleasing and breathable during the warmer months. However, 100% linen has several downsides, including constant wrinkling, little to no give/stretch, and a strict size that doesn't allow for much variation.
Assembly’s cotton shorts are made from 100% cotton without any elastane. This is perfect for a structured look, but it’s not so great for staying comfortable throughout the day, especially once you've eaten a lot of food.
Customers have reported various issues with the seams and overall structural integrity of the fabric over time. This is reflected in numerous reviews, which complain that the shorts "fell apart" or "lost their shape" within weeks of purchase.
Fabrics Used by Frankster
Frankster uses a 98% premium cotton blend with 2% elastane. The 2% elastane makes all the difference.
The fabric keeps the breathability and comfortable feel that you get from cotton. However, the elastane adds just enough flexibility/stretch to keep up with your everyday movements.
Each and every pair of Frankster shorts is double-stitched at high-wear areas and includes a YKK zipper of the same quality used by high-end outdoor gear. Customers continually report that they’ve worn their Franksters for 2+ years with heavy usage.
One customer summed it up nicely: "I love how these Everyday chino shorts develop perfectly and feel like an old favourite right off the bat."
Fit – Relaxed vs Engineered Fits
Assembly's Way of Thinking About Fit
Assembly sells sizes from XS to XXL with relaxed, pull-on fits and often drawstring waists. The style of their clothing is meant to look casual and loose.
What's the trade-off? The fit differs depending on the product, and because there is no stretch in the material, you often have to use guesswork to see if your size will actually fit. Some customers have mentioned that they have had trouble with consistency in sizing and recommend buying Assembly shorts through The Iconic because they have a better return policy.
How Frankster Approaches Fit
Before making their designs, we tested each style on guys with very different body types. The sizes range from XS to 4XL, which means that big fellas, little fellas and everyone in between can find a good fit.
So what else makes Frankster's shorts stand out? Their partially elastic waistband. This feature adds flexibility and comfort, and if you want to add more structure, you can use the traditional belt loops. The elastic waistband also stretches to provide more room as needed.
Each pair of shorts has a seven-inch inseam, tested and perfected to fall right above the knee for the average guy. "Elastic waistband is a total game changer," said one of our customers. Another added, "Normally I'd need to wear a belt with my other shorts, but with Frankster shorts, no belt is needed."
What Really Matters – Features
Assembly Label
Assembly shorts don’t have standard pockets, and only some of their shorts have drawstring waists. Beyond that, there aren’t many other innovative features. There is nothing wrong with this approach if all you care about is aesthetics.
Frankster
Each and every pair of Frankster shorts comes with a hidden zipper pocket, large enough to fit an iPhone 15 Pro Max.
How many times have you gone to the pub or to the beach and asked someone to keep your keys safe? Worried that your phone will fall out of a very shallow pocket? Handily, the pocket is positioned so that it will not dig into your hip when sitting.
The Active range goes further than this, adding features such as water resistance, UPF 50+ sun protection, anti-microbial coatings and quick-dry materials. There are also multiple zippered pockets, along with a golf tee holder. One pair of shorts can take you hiking, to the golf course or beach, or on a trip.
The Return Process
Assembly Label
Assembly Label has a 14-day return window. If you’d rather get a refund instead of store credit, the return shipping fee will be $15.00 (except it’s only available in Australia).
Multiple customers have described the online return process as "shockingly bad”, with one customer recommending, "I would tell anybody to purchase through The Iconic."
There is no phone support at Assembly, and email response time is slow. Customers have reported that they’ve waited weeks for a refund.
Frankster
Frankster has a 100-day comfort guarantee. You can live in them for more than three months and still get a full refund. We also cover the return shipping. You don’t need to fill in any forms or answer any questions.
Free express shipping is included on every Frankster order, too. If you order before 2pm, it’ll be shipped on the same day and arrive in 2-6 days from Melbourne.
"Had a minor issue, Frankster took care of it promptly and with no hassle," said one of our customers.
The Real Cost Comparison
Assembly shorts cost $80 - $100. Frankster shorts cost $89.95 (for the majority of styles) or $99.95 for premium cargos.
At first glance, the costs appear similar. However, the math changes when you consider the durability of the shorts.
If your shorts only last 6 to 12 months before the quality starts to deteriorate (a problem that several of Assembly’s customers have experienced), then you’ll wind up buying new shorts every year. Additionally, if you need to make a return on the shorts due to poor quality, there are additional costs ($15 return shipping).
Frankster shorts typically last over two years, according to our customers. Therefore, you only need to pay $89.95 for shorts that you’ll still be wearing two summers from now.
The Ethical Consideration
Assembly Label
According to Good On You, an independent organisation that rates the sustainability of brands, Assembly Label receives a rating of “not good enough”.
They point out that there is limited transparency around the manufacturing processes and no proof of any significant efforts toward reducing negative impacts on the environment.
Instead, Assembly says that they are working toward being more transparent about their manufacturing processes.
Frankster
Frankster openly discusses their manufacturing process, stating that they manufacture their shorts in high-quality Chinese factories that also produce apparell for top international brands.
Frankster uses certified cotton and employs a garment dyeing process that cuts down on water usage by 70%.
The key difference between Assembly Label and Frankster is that Frankster contributes 10% of its earnings to Movember, a charity that raises awareness and money for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health initiatives. Every time you buy Frankster shorts, you are supporting men's health.
The Frankster Range
Everydays (Chino Shorts) - $89.95: These are our flagship shorts. They come in 16+ colours and can handle work, school runs, barbecues and whatever the day throws at you. They have a rating of 4.85/5 stars from 1,300+ reviews.
Aussies - Cargo Shorts - $99.95: These premium cargo shorts, made from Lyocell, come without the bulk. With multiple pockets, they’re great for your weekend adventures.
Actives - Performance Shorts - $89.95: These hybrid performance shorts are water-resistant, UPF50+, and fast drying. They’re perfect for golf, hiking, beaches and travel – essentially, this one pair of shorts covers it all.
Comfies - Lounge Shorts - $89.95: These ultra-soft lounge shorts are comfortable enough to answer the door in. They have deep pockets and a full elastic waistband.
Shorties - Shorts - $89.95: Shorties offer the same quality as our Everydays, but with a five-inch length (approximately), they’re great for blokes who prefer a shorter cut. They have gained 4.88/5 stars from 500+ reviews.
So, Which Shorts Should I Choose?
Assembly Label creates beautiful clothing. Their coastal aesthetic is very appealing, and if you're planning to build your wardrobe around this lifestyle image, their products fit the bill.
However, when it comes to shopping for shorts – and whether those shorts meet your expectations regarding performance, durability, and comfort – it’s a different story altogether.
Frankster’s sole focus is on producing shorts, which almost always trumps a brand that’s busy trying to make many of different types of clothing.
You've got 100 days to test our shorts for yourself, and you’ll get a full refund if you think they aren't the best shorts you've ever had. Even then, most blokes don't send them back: our reviews are proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Frankster shorts more expensive than Assembly Label shorts?
At face value, the price difference isn’t huge. Assembly Label shorts usually sit between $80–$100, while most Frankster shorts are $89.95. The real difference shows up over time. Frankster builds shorts with stretch, reinforced stitching and hardware designed to handle repeated wear. Assembly Label prioritises style and fabric choice, which looks great, but doesn’t always hold up as well with regular use. For many people, that means replacing Assembly shorts more often.
Are Frankster shorts more durable than Assembly Label shorts?
They’re made with different priorities. Assembly Label leans into natural fibres and relaxed fits, which suits a casual aesthetic but can come at the cost of structure and longevity. Frankster shorts are designed with elastane, double-stitched seams and YKK zippers. Customer reviews regularly mention wearing the same pair for years without losing comfort or shape.
What happens if my Frankster shorts don’t fit?
Frankster offers a 100-day comfort guarantee with free return shipping, so you have plenty of time to decide if they’re right for you. Assembly Label’s return window is shorter, and return shipping costs can apply depending on where you buy them. If you’re unsure about sizing, Frankster’s policy is noticeably more forgiving.
What makes Frankster shorts better suited to everyday wear?
Frankster shorts are designed for real days, not just good photos. Every pair includes a hidden zip pocket that fits a large phone without digging in when you sit. Add stretch fabric and a partially elasticised waistband, and the shorts stay comfortable whether you’re sitting, walking, eating, or moving around all day.
Which brand is more transparent about environmental responsibility?
Assembly Label focuses on natural fibres and a minimalist design approach, but provides limited detail about its manufacturing process. Frankster is more open about where its shorts are made, uses certified cotton, reduces water use during dyeing, and donates 10% of net profit to Movember.
