The Shorts That Broke My Black-and-White Streak

Also, Capsule School is here!

Jul 11, 2025

Before we jump in — this is so exciting — Capsule School is officially here! I’ve been working on this cozy, 1:1 capsule coaching experience for over a year now, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. If you’ve been craving a simplified, more aligned wardrobe, go check it out! Okay, onto the post…

This summer, I’ve been in my neutrals era. Black, white, denim. Rinse, repeat.

But then — plot twist — I bought a pair of shorts in actual color. Okay, not a wild color. But a color nonetheless!

I remembered these Reformation shorts from a couple years ago. I’d ordered them in black back then, loved them, but returned them (budget).

But I never forgot ‘em.

So when they popped back up this summer in the most perfect shade of olive, I was sold so fast.

They’re 100% linen (you know how I feel about linen), they’ve got pockets, and the color adds just enough dimension, without shouting.

I feel like I’ve been wearing so much black this summer, but this outfit has zero black in it. Just olive, taupe, brown, and white — a full-on earthy palette. It feels rich and calm and wearable.

The rest of the outfit walks this interesting line between summer camp ease and quiet polish — and I can’t really tell if it’s more one than the other. The beaded anklet and my beloved Birkenstocks feel loose and free. But then the crisp white tank, mirrored silver necklace, and brown woven tote pull it back toward something refined.

When I look at it, sometimes I see camp, sometimes I see polish. It feels like that old internet conundrum about the blue/black, gold/white dress. I’m curious, what do you see — camp or polish?

Either way, it’s a simple outfit that made me feel happy when I put it on. And that’s always a sign something’s working.

❤️ Caroline Joy

P.S. If you’re here for the outfit, you can find the links below, as always.