You could say that I’ve been in pursuit of the perfect pair of tailored shorts ever since I saw a photo of my grandmother in one such pair back in the 1950s. But shorts can be deceptively tricky to buy. After several attempts, I’m hopeful that Everlane’s Tencel Way High Drape Shorts have finally put my search to rest. In this Everlane shorts review, I share my thoughts on fabric, comfort, fit, style, customer service, versatility and sustainability – in case you’re also on the lookout for such a pair.
Style: Tailored Elegance with Refined Details
I was looking for shorts which hit the sweet spot in terms of length. Not quite Bermuda style (which feels too reminenscent of my school uniform) but not too short either. Give me middle of the road and Everlane’s Way High Drape Shorts deliver, with a design which skims just above mid-thigh.
But there’s more to love about the Everlane’s shorts than just their length. Featuring a high-waisted design, a thick structured waist band (perfect for styling with a belt), convenient pockets and eye-catching pin tuck detailing, these shorts have a sophisticated design which will effortlessly elevate any summer wardrobe. The Way High Drape shorts comes in a range of versatile shades such as toasted coconut, black, and tawny pink. Everlane offers a similar design in linen too.
Comfort and Ease of Movement
I’ve learned from past purchases that if a garment’s not comfortable, I’ll rarely wear it. I believe that style shouldn’t come at the expense of practicality – especially not for wardrobe staples which should be functional and easy to move about your day in. Luckily, these shorts are comfortable with soft fabric and a well constructed design that won’t construct your movement.
Fabric: Sustainability and Structure
The Everlane Tencel Way High Drape Shorts are crafted from a blend of 60% Tencel and 40% cotton. Tencel is an eco-friendly alternative to conventional fabrics made from wool pulp (cellulose fibres). Less energy and water intensive than regular cotton, Tencel is also compostable and biodegradable. It was unclear from the label whether these shorts were made from organic or conventional cotton (the latter, while natural, comes with a range of negative social and environmental impacts). However, Everlane has prioritised the use of certified organic cotton in their product range and, according to page 24-25 of Everlane’s impact report*, 75% of cotton used in production in 2022 was certified organic. This report goes onto explain that they are hoping to increase the use of organic cotton to 100% in 2023 but are facing challenges with fabric availability and are also looking to increase use of recycled cotton.
Overall, I appreciate the absence of synthetic fibres making these shorts breathable and ideal for warmer weather. The fabric of these shorts feels thick and durable and structured which enhances the tailored look.
Shop look 1
Customer Service: A Streamlined Shopping Experience But with Return Shipping Fees
This review marks my first experience shopping with Everlane. Although I initially had to return the shorts because of sizing issues, the ordering and shipping process was straightforward and stress-free. For online orders, shipping and return fees are always a consideration. Shipping to the UK was a reasonable 5 pounds. However, I did incur an 8-pound return fee. Although the returns process (and Everlane’s website in general) was easy to navigate, it’s something to keep in mind, especially when ordering for the first time or if you are uncertain about sizing. It’s always a bonus when brands offer free return shipping.
Fit: SizE Down for the Perfect Fit
It can be tricky to assess sizing online when unfamiliar or new to a brand. Based on my experience, I recommend sizing down when purchasing these shorts. As someone who typically wears an XS, I initially bought a size 0 but found it to be too large. The size 00 was a much better fit for me. A factor to consider when choosing the right size to ensure the most flattering and comfortable fit.
Versatility: A Summer Staple for Every Occasion
If you’re been reading my blog for a while, you’ll know how important versatility is for me. In line with capsule wardrobe principles, it really helps me make the most of my wardrobe. The Everlane Tencel Way High Drape Shorts certainly ticks this box. A wardrobe staple, they can be dressed up for a smart casual dinner or styled with a simple t-shirt for running errands, making them very adaptable. I can also see them paired with a linen shirt for a refined, old money resort-inspired ensemble that exudes summer vibes.
Pictured above, are just two ways I’ve styled these Everlane shorts. First with this beautiful striped, Chanel inspired jacket from Goelia and the La Bante London “Elm” handbag and second with a polka dot blouse and brown accent accessories. The former, I feel, would be perfect to wear of a cooler evening or during the transitional months when there’s still a bite to the air.
Shop Look 2
Transparency, Sustainability & Ethics
Everlane’s mission is to “empower people to live their best lives with the least impact on the planet” (Everlane’s impact report, page 6). I like that Everlane focuses on transparency and have also signed a pledge for transparency within their supply chain. You can find the information about their factories and audit processes on their website. Supply chain transparency is important as it helps me, as a consumer, to assess and decide whether to support a brand and its practices.
While no brand is perfect, Everlane has a range of great social and environmental initiatives. Some of the practices which stood out to me included:
- Using a wide range of sustainable fabrics throughout their products such as Tencel, linen, recycled synthetic fibres (for example, ECONYL, recycled polyester and regenerated nylon fibres), recycled wool and cashmere and leather which has been certified by the Leather Working Group. As mentioned above, Everlane are also working to increase their use of certified organic cottton.
- Promoting recycling and initiatives which contribute to a circular fashion economy. For example, Everlane pays for the return, and organising the recycling of, their Forever Sneaker.
- Incorporating into their production and supply process, a range of social, animal welfare and environmental certifications including Bluesign Systems, GOTS Organic Cotton, Responsible Wool Standard, OEKO-TEX and Global Recycling Standard.
- Ensuring that Everlane’s Tier 1 suppliers are audited by a third party. This third party auditor also conducts surveys allowing workers to comment anonymously about conditions in which they work (impact report page 46).
Everlane’s impact report is informative and outlines the brands progress to date and plans for further improvement. Everlane’s Good on You rating is “It’s a Start”.
Other Everlane Favourites
Final Thoughts: The Tailored Shorts I was looking For
A sophisticated design which blends comfort and sustainability Everlane’s Tencel Way High Drape Shorts puts to rest my search for the perfect tailored shorts. I’m sure they will be a staple in my summer wardrobe for years to come.
I’d love to know, have you tried Everlane? What are your criteria for the perfect summer shorts?
Outfit 1:
- Goelia’s Button Up Wool Striped Cardigan
- Kookai, Black Bodysuit (bought, 2016), Similar here.
- Mejuri Dome Huggies
- LaBante London vegan Elm Handbag
- Monica Vinader, Diamond Essential Ring. Similar options here and here.
- Everlane Tencel Way High Drape Shorts in Black
Outfit 2:
- Witchery polka dot top (bought, 2017), similar here or here.
- Belt, thrifted (similar here)
- Monica Vinader, Diamond Essential Ring. Similar options here and here.
- Everlane Tencel Way High Drape Shorts in Black
- Mejuri Dome Huggies
- Fall the Label Brown Crossbody Handbag (bought, 2020) similar here.
* Katina Boutis and Michi Fried (Everlane’s Sustainability Team), “Impact Report 2022”, everlane.com (published 22.04.23, accessed 24.06.23)
**This post contains affiliate links. You can read about what that means here.
