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Keeping it too real: help needed with shorts

Sal

Veteran

I have spent too much time alone this week sick. Coughing, sneezing and a temperature. I do feel better today and to liven things up want some help upgrading my casual shorts/ gear capsule.

I wear these shorts and tights in the following settings:
1.Walking or the gym- gear.
2.Watching and helping with tennis and athletics events for my sons, often in an active role.
3.Beach holidays.
4.Working from home, casual weekends.

Pictured are
- two pairs of sports shorts I would wear only for gym use.
- two pairs of tights I would wear for gym, walking, helping out at athletics.
- one pair of harem capri that I would wear for all uses.
- two pairs of cotton and linen shorts I would wear for the last three.

I also have thee other pairs of tights similar to the two pictured.

After our summer holiday I was traumatised by pictures of me in the two pairs of cotton and linen shorts and was determined to replace them. I have lost a little weight since then but I still do not know. DH prefers me in the shorter ones rather than knee length.

Whilst they are unstyled I would wear with sneakers, Merrell sandals, flat sandals etc... Often a hat and glasses. I rarely wear shorts in a dressy setting. I might wear a tank, or a looser tee but essentially it is a very casual look.

In all these settings I see many friends, it is a big part of my life.

In my opinion the patterned tights look better in real life, and I love them, but I do not think the pic is great. I know many are black and it is hard to see the details.

What is your opinion on the shorts/ tights and what would work for my legs and my lifestyle? I am considering some shorter cotton type ones, maybe loose, or maybe some more harem Capri ones.

Your honest feedback is appreciated.

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Dressing

28 replies

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Anonymous

I'm like your DH. Much prefer the shorter shorts in a casual setting.
Also like the tights if you feel comfortable about your bottom.
You look good kiwigal!

Sal

Veteran

I don't mind my bottom!! I am more self conscious about my legs and tummy areas.

It is silly really these body hang ups, I do know that.

carter

Veteran

I think 1-5 work very well for you for their stated purposes. 6 and 7 need to go, though...sorry! They hit you in that no-man's land that just isn't very flattering on us hourglasses. I find that cotton/linen shorts that hit me about mid-thigh (right where the muscle curves in), with a bit of a roomy leg, are the most flattering on me. For my legs, about a 5" inseam works well. Your legs are longer, so you'll have to play with a bit. If you look at the second picture, there is a drawer pull behind you in about the perfect spot for shorts to end. Sorry if that was all a bit too personal...it's like looking at my legs, so I can totally relate!

Sal

Veteran

Thanks for the honest advice Carter...that's what I want. I agree the last two are ...(I want to say frumpy but I am not sure I can use that word, maybe unflattering?). And not a good post for anyone who does not like knees either

I have skimped in this area and realised that in many ways this is a huge part of my summer life...and with the childrens' sports I am up demonstrating and talking to parents, and officiating so have quite big groups of people watching me.

Diana

Veteran

(Let me just start by saying, I have poison eye for knee length bermuda shorts...)

I agree with your DH and I prefer the shorter shorts. I also like the harem pants a lot. We have similar shaped legs and those are also the silhouettes I like best on myself. =) I look for around a 5" inseam, on me that is a little above mid thigh.

The tights are fine too; I think I personally would consider them gear but I know plenty of people who would wear them as casual wear as well so I think they can work for whatever you want them to.

One thing I do almost always do is size up in shorts. I like the look of them better loose, and they are more comfortable in the heat. (I tend to go up one size from my butt size, which is already one size up from my waist size.) It does make the waist a bit big but since I prefer my shorts and pants to be low rise anyway, that is not a problem, they just sit a little bit lower.

MTBGirl

Veteran

I agree the short shorts are good for the gym. Love all the capris on you-you're rocking them! I'm not so sure about the longer shorts. I like Carter's advice for somewhere in between the two.

Sal

Veteran

Thanks Diana....with the children's athletics I am showing pre-schoolers how to jump, or start, or skip, so it is a real blend of exercise and being on show. I think the tights are okay, and I sometimes wear a longer top with them for this setting. If I was a top young athlete I could wear anything but clearly I am not, There are groups of around 20 -50 parents watching me (some join in too). I have been doing it for a few years since my own boys were that age so I am confident in the role but often feel I am not quite wearing the right thing, and any wobbly parts sure show when you are demonstrating!! I chose the bermuda's for the coverage but I have since come to dislike them too!! Due to the pockets I don't think they could be shortened either.

Donna - thanks, I think a mid-thigh short is in order. Now a case of finding some. If I can find a pair I like this is something I would duplicate because I find shorts my WORST shopping nightmare - even worse then jeans and swimsuits!

Anonymous

I like them all with the exceptions of 3 and 6. I realize 7 is the same length as 6 but they do have leg narrowing effect to my eye because they're black.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

What Lisa said.

Admittedly, I might be the wrong person to comment since I regularly wear Bermuda length shorts (thus calling attention to my knees, gah!) I am not crazy about your first pair -- it's the pattern and the cut. BUT I think the last ones are very flattering and would be more so with the right footwear.

There are times when it just doesn't feel right to expose one's thighs, and those are the times I wear my slim Bermuda shorts. I tend also to wear them either with fluid tops semi-tucked, or with fluid to oversize longer tops untucked. This alters the proportion a bit. I think they look fantastic on you.

You also look really good in the short shorts for casual situations. Mr. Suz is like your DH -- he vastly prefers the shorter short silhouette on me. But again, I don't feel comfortable in some situations wearing them. I tend to wear them at home, as gear, or hiking.

I like the tights as gear -- I wouldn't wear them as streetwear except with tunic length tops, myself. But I might wear them to/from the gym.

I also like the harems. With the right top/ footwear, they would work well.

I don't know if you have the GAP or similar, but the BF shorts they have are about the mid-length (and looseness) that others might be talking about. This length works pretty well on me and I am comfortable wearing them outside the house. Although to be honest, if I were demonstrating activities, I would rather be in gear and think it is most appropriate.

Camo boyfriend roll-up shorts

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8

Anonymous

I think virtually everybody looks good in the black tights, I just really like the way they look for exercising and I think you look best in those, rather than the patterned.

For casual wear I think you look much cuter in the shorter shorts, but again, I prefer solid colors or at least the more subtle pattern of the first pair. I don't think the high contrast horizontal line of the second pair is as flattering.

For casual but more dressed I think I'd go right to capris, a skirt, or better still, a dress.

Sal

Veteran

Thanks Lisa, 6 are definitely going, but 3 are definitely staying! I love them for the gym and honestly think they look better in real life. I know patterns are less flattering.

Suz, yes you have described the situation well (you always can put things into words so brilliantly). I guess the shorts and tights are not worn OUT as such but in these scenarios you are out but still exercising. I feel the first two pairs are a little too short for the athletics/tennis helper scenario but wear them at the gym, walking with a friend and feel they are more than suitable. We don't have Gap, I could buy online but with a high risk item like this I wonder if I am best to shop locally. I struggle with shorts in a thick fabric like denim or thick cotton; I find them a bit bunchy, hot.....the ones shown are a great length though.

Isabel, thanks yes black tights are the most flattering (I have three pairs), and one navy pair with a stripe down the side, and then these patterned ones that I kind of love!! For casual lunches with friends, BBQ, school events I tend to wear pants (cropped sometimes), a dress, jeans etc...

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I hear you on denim shorts. These are actually a soft cotton -- not too hot if you buy them big enough, as Diana mentioned. They work well for me on hot humid 30C plus days when denim never would. But I absolutely agree you should shop locally!! I'll bet there is a similar thing available and it will look really good on you.

I also kind of like this patterned tights, by the way -- I absolutely understand the wish for something other than plain black sometimes in the gym.

I think from a pure LOOKS standpoint the shorter shorts are fine for the demonstrator scenario you describe (and good on you for doing this volunteer job, by the way!!) But I know I would probably feel slightly self conscious in them, too -- no matter what. It's odd, isn't it. Anyway, another solution for that situation might simply be gear shorts that are a bit longer. I have several of the black ones and some pairs are more mid-thigh length than others.

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

I agree that 6 isn't the best, but I don't mind 7. 1-2 are the kind of thing I wear around the house but rarely out. Not because I hate my thighs, but because when I walk much at all in shorts that short, they ride up in the inner thigh and I'm always having to readjust them. Not flattering in public to always be picking fabric out of one's crotch. :O

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

I really love you in black tights and the black Bermudas in #7.

I prefer shorter shorts on you. My legs are absolutely like yours, Sally, so I know what you mean. I try to find shorts that hit me mid thigh, or about 4 inches above the knee. That's the most flattering length, as Carter says too.

Another thing, I decided to buy shorts one size lose a few years back (as to Diana's point) hoping they will 'flow' better. They do...I use a belt to cinch the waist, but cannot do anything athletic in them. For example - I go for long power walks. But these particular shorts bunch up in a very ugly way on the crotch and start to 'gather' at the crotch! This happens coz my thighs rub together, there is too much extra fabric around the hips and thighs from sizing up, so they bunch at the crotch and start to move 'upwards'. So do not size up for the lose look if you intend to walk, run etc in the shorts.

For walking and anything athletic, shorts like #6 & 7 do work best. They stay put. I don't think #6 is your best picture, but do try another top? Sometimes when you wear a top (solid colour here) that hits the right spot and is fitting just right, and you have your sneakers on, the shorts start to look JFE. I have a pair of pink shorts that remind me of your #6. I haven't thrown them coz they are veryyy functional. I just wear very specific tshirts with them; that's all.

All your other clothes are fine. Also, for athletic activities, I buy short shorts from sports brands. Think running shorts...but I get a slightly longer length. They breathe well as they are cotton, have the right shape, and perform better. I'll click a picture for you later in the day and send. Those are great for your athletic/tennis helper scenario. Adidas, Reebok, Nike do have them. As do many local Indian sports brands.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Sally, I'm nodding along with Lisa and Suz and love the ones Suz suggested from the Gap. I have many happy clients in those.

I will be the spanner too, and say that I LOVE long shorts. I think they look hip and elegant.

Sal

Veteran

Thanks Laura, I do know what you mean, and I too dislike fussiness!

Maneera, I will check out some of your shorts looks. I am wee bit older than you (just a wee bit haha) so there are some other considerations but think the shape that suits you will also suit me. I like the athletic brands too for gym gear- Nike, Lululemon,Under Armour, The gear just lasts and lasts and really does perform.

Thanks Angie, I like longer shorts too, but I wonder if they suit a straighter figure than mine. I find hourglasses can go from vavavoom to dowdy oh so easily.

I think the Gap shorts have sold out, the find is not linking. But maybe they are worth considering if you have found them successful on a variety of shapes.

Anonymous

I like Carter and Suz's idea of a slightly longer short short, and Maneera's of sizing up (I do this too and it looks way better).

re:

But I know I would probably feel slightly self conscious in them, too -- no matter what.

I understand. I don't like showing my arms at the office (but it's not like I have low arm esteem).
It is interesting how we all have subtle length preferences that change depending on the scenario.

Brooklyn

Veteran

I will start by saying I am not wild about Bermuda shorts either, but I like no 6. They look like what we Aussies would call board shorts and with a different tee (something billabong-ish) I think would look quite hip and cool. The harems are great. The short shorts look good on you if you are comfortable. I think no 2 fits you a bit better than No 1. The tights are good. As everyone has observed, lots of women wear these as casual wear. I have a long sleeveless cotton tunic I bought from ezibuy (totally gratuitous mention here because they are an nz company!) that I like to wear with mine. For shorts, I generally look for mid thigh shorts in a boyfriend fit. I have had some success with Just Jeans if you have that retailer there.
Anyway, I sympathise. I hate shopping for shorts and also tend to skimp on them. I am thinking this year of trying to get a utility skirt or skort as an alternative.

Brooklyn

Veteran

Kg, I just checked just jeans. They have a style of short called "summer girlfriend short" which is a good length. Those are the ones I will be trying this summer!

http://m.justjeans.com.au/shop.....iend-short

Sal

Veteran

Thanks Brooklyn, we have Ezibuy of course and Just Jeans. So many Australian retailers now - Cue, Witchery, Decjuba, Country Road, Jacqui E, Just Jeans, Jeanswest - plus probably others that I don't even realise are Australian. I will check them out.

I think a longer tee is another good option to wear with tights in the athletics scenario. I have a couple but didn't really think about that as for gym wear of course you want less volume to get in the way. And a skirt/skort could be an option.

The patterned shorts in 6 are fun but I think they will be finding another home. I would send them to you but I suspect they would be too big. I have just gone off them on me.

Smittie, thanks. I think a mid thigh short will be needed. Yes body image and revealing it is a funny and complex thing. There are so many norms about what is appropriate and shades of when something is appropriate or not. What I realised in my sick and feverish state was that actually these activities are when I see my friends MUCH more than going out to swanky restaurants and bars so I need to wear things I like. In summer I am in this children's sport setting a minimum of three times a week plus I have a regular park exercise group who always coffee afterwards.

This reminds me of a NZ advert that you may or may not understand. Very kiwi sense of humour... And Togs are what we call a swimsuit here. Australians call them a Cozzie (or used to?).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-Lx2ihpGbc

Brooklyn

Veteran

Ha ha! Yes, we do call them cozzies and also togs. Also budgie smugglers - like in the ad. Our PM has been criticised for wearing his budgie smugglers a little too ostentatiously.

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

For the gym I like the tights. And for athletic activities outside of the gym they are fine too. I see many women of various ages wearing them. You look toned and great in them I think.

I'm sure the short shorts are fine for the gym too, is that what people wear? You can tell it's been ages since I went to a gym. In public, I mostly see teenagers wearing those kind of athletic short shorts where I live.

I actually like the last pair of shorts and think they are flattering. The second to last pair needs to be just a tad shorter or longer, that's all.

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

Oh and the harems are fine too, they are definitely the most covered look and the kind of garment my SO doesn't love.

Sal

Veteran

Thanks Denise, you always have a good eye!

After all this analysis of my legs my plan is to :

- Get at least two pairs of shorts. At least one mid thigh and loose, and one more pair of harem capri. The black bermudas will stay until the others are found and then may depart. They are pretty worn. I may duplicate if I find a pair I love as these are a HEWI for me and as I have realised an important part of my week.
- Look at my existing longer tunic tops to possibly wear with the tights for the children's athletic sessions. Possibly purchase another.

The blue and white shorts will go to the thrift shop for a new owner:)

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

Hey Sally

Hope you're feeling better now

I got pictures of some of the things I wear to workout. I walk around the neighborhood and so run into a lot of people who live around the area, so I try to not look like I've walked out in my sleeping shorts

Here are some things I wear. The second last image has the pink shorts I told you I do not like very much...but they do the job and don't ride up when I'm power walking. Most other thigh length cotton shorts (the ones made from woven cotton) do ride up. Knits don't.

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Style Fan

Veteran

I like the shorter version of shorts and black capris. I am also an hourglass or pear (not sure) and struggle with finding shorts. I look horrible in knee length anything.
I wear my shorts mid thigh and very baggy. The dilemma then is how to keep them up. Because hourglasses have a big difference between their waists and hips. I tried the gap boyfriend shorts and unless I wanted my shorts to be falling off me they were a no go. Even with a belt.
I am thinking about trying a skort. A short skirt with shorts underneath. Lululemon and Eddie Bauer make them. That might be an opinion for you. I think they are really cute.

Elizabeth P

Veteran

A bit late to this party, but I also wanted to chime in and agree with others that I think shorts with a length in the middle of what you have would be most flattering. I personally wear shorter ones like yours to exercise in, or hang out on very hot days, but public viewings need a longer inseam.

I also suggest trying a skort... they are an awesome solution to your situation. Slightly nicer look, but totally functional. Lululemon has some in a "tall" length, which is a perfect length for me, and while I wouldn't wear it to the grocery store, I'd definitely wear it to the soccer field, or for a walk, or around the neighbourhood . The regular ones feel a bit skimpy, and are best (imho) for exercising. Of course other brands have them as well... My sister has a great Sugoi one, and even Costco has had them on occasion (but I missed them )

http://shop.lululemon.com/prod.....l-Skirt-II...

Pace Rival Skirt II (Tall) *2-way Stretch

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Anonymous

I missed this yesterday, Sally, but glad to hear you're feeling better. Haven't had time to read everyone's comments, but saw you respond that you may get rid of 6, and just wanted to say I like them! But if you don't feel fab in them, that's another story. My DH likes me in shorter shorts too, but I feel too revealed and hate having to worry about how I move around or sit. I like Elizabeth's suggestion for a skort. They were a bit of a style no no maybe 10 years ago, but they seem to be in now in a huge way, at least in my area and Colorado where I also spend a lot of time.