I’m back with another review of linen shorts, but this time, I’m sharing a pair from Athleta with activewear features.
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Linen Activewear Shorts Three Ways
My Sizing: I’m 4’10”, and my bust, waist, and hip measurements are 32″, 24″, and 36″. My inseam is 25″ (the measurement from the inside of my leg to my ankle bone). The clothes shown are unaltered and show how they fit me right from the store. I list my sizing beside each item to help you compare when shopping online. When referencing my true size, that is often the smallest option available at a brand or petite xxs/00/24. I wear a size 5 shoe.
Athleta Retreat Linen Shorts
Athleta’s Retreat Linen Shorts are a breezy and light option that will keep you cool on all of your summer adventures. They’re polished, so you could dress them up, but they have a drawstring waist that leans more casual to me. They are true to size. I’m wearing them in XXS and find them to have a comfortable roomy fit. If you’re comparing these to the Quince shorts I shared last week – they’re both great but since the Athleta pair has an XXS option, they have a closer fit. I also feel like the fabric is thicker, making these less sheer. The shorts have a drawstring stretch waist and zippered pockets. In today’s post, I’m sharing three ways I like to wear them.
Casual
I paired them with comfortable sandals and a striped top in this casual everyday outfit. I used the same side cinch top that I included in my recent spring capsule wardrobe. I also added an optional layer here with a short-sleeved denim top. I was asked recently for ideas for layering in hot weather, and this would be an option! It’s short-sleeved but lighter than a denim jacket, giving it a similar look.


Shorts XXS undyed | Striped Top XXS | Denim Top XXS | Sandals saddle | Bag
Theme Park
This is my ideal summer Disney outfit (or just a theme park outfit). The shorts will keep you nice and cool and they don’t ride up or cling with a lot of walking. If the lighter color isn’t your favorite for riding rides, the shorts come in several color options. I paired them with one of my favorite basic tank tops from LOFT here. It’s true to size and comes in petite, so there is no gaping at the arm holes. It’s also thick enough that it’s not see-through, but not too thick that it’s too hot. I went for my favorite sneakers – the Cloudnova sneakers from ON. To me, these are the most comfortable sneakers around and are perfect for lots of walking.

Shorts XXS undyed | Tank Top Petite XXS | Sneakers | Ears | Backpack
Over a Swimsuit
The shorts make a great pairing with a bathing suit. Being petite, I struggle to find swim coverups that fit me so I tend to go for shorts, linen pants, dresses and rompers instead. In this case, the linen shorts make a great coverup option that you can pair with a linen top as well. The swimsuit is true to size. It has a shelf bra, removable cups and adjustable tie straps. If you ask me J.Crew Factory has the best swimsuits around.

Shorts XXS undyed | Swimsuit XXS | Linen Top XS | Sandals tts | Hat
-Brooke