- Value: 20/20
- Functionality: 19/20
- Quality: 19/20
- Aesthetics: 19/20
- Chafe Protection: 19/20
- TOTAL: 96/100
Summer and I have always had a tricky relationship. On one hand, I love the laidback, vacation-y vibe, sipping rosé outdoors and safely developing as much of tan as my fair skin will allow (with plenty of sunscreen, of course). On the other, as an extremely sweaty person, I’ve always found it really difficult to get dressed in the summer in a way that’s comfortable and cooling yet still true to my style. Luckily, over the past few years, I’ve found some pieces that make me feel good—and I’ve proceeded to wear them into the ground. Truly, I reach for the same handful of pieces—and pretty much only those pieces—from June to September. One absolute workhorse in my ultra-condensed warm-weather capsule wardrobe? The 4” High-Rise Easy Utility Shorts from Gap Factory ($50; $20).
With a high (but not too high) rise and 4-inch length, these 60 percent cotton, 40 percent viscose shorts offer the best of both fabrics. They feature minimal detailing, save for two front and two back pockets—all of which are functional. There’s a button closure and zip fly, but also elastic at the waist for comfy stretch. I find the length to hit that perfect mid-point of not being too mini or too frumpy on my 6’ frame, though I did go up one size to ensure I’m able to wear them higher and lower on my waist depending on the vibe I’m going for.
Speaking of vibes, I’m obsessed with how versatile they are; I can wear them with a simple T-shirt and my trusty Adidas Samba sneakers for everyday running around, a swimsuit and Birkenstock sandals for a trip to the pool or even a button-down and loafers for the office (yes, it’s a casual office).
