I’m delighted to share some fresh styles from a new-to-the blog brand, VARLEY, known for their contemporary line of elevated staples designed to move with you throughout your day. I think this line is perfectly suited for all sorts of lifestyles, in particular folks on the go who don’t want to compromise comfort OR style.
I’ve been following the brand for some time and when they asked if I’d share my thoughts on some of their spring styles, I couldn’t wait to get a first hand look.
I was particularly intrigued by their signature DoubleSoft fabric, which has been receiving rave reviews for extreme softness and comfort. I was also interested in trying out their Alder Shorts, which have a unique shape and fit.
Read on to see if they passed the sitting test & more notes on the styles I tried out!
This post is a paid partnership with VARLEY. The products featured were gifted for me to test out and all opinions are my own. Some of the links included are affiliate, which means if you see something you like and decide to shop, I will earn commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Style Bee!
SHOP THE VARLEY STYLES IN TODAY’S POST
LEIGH HIGH NECK TANK – Snow White – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
ALDER SHORTS – Snow White – True to Size – I’m wearing a S, more fit notes below.
BELLE BOXY PLAYSUIT – Clove – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
FULTON CROPPED KNIT – Snow White – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
GILES QUILTED SLIDE 2.0 – Chanterelle – True to Size – I’m wearing my usual US 7
LOOK 1
Up first lets take a look at the LEIGH HIGH NECK TOP & ALDER SHORT set, both in Snow White, which is a beautiful fresh white with a subtle warm, ivory undertone.
I love this set for an early summer day at the lake. Comfy enough for a few tasks around home but totally presentable for a visit with friends or a trip into town for coffee and supplies.
Now I’ll pepper in a few notes on fabric, fit and other details I feel are worth mentioning.
LEIGH HIGH NECK TANK – Snow White – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
ALDER SHORTS – Snow White – True to Size – I’m wearing a S, more fit notes below.
GILES QUILTED SLIDE 2.0 – Clove – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
DOUBLESOFT FABRIC
This fabric is truly unlike anything I’ve felt before. It’s incredibly soft, almost like a jersey, but it has a beautiful weight and body to it, more like a cross between french terry and neoprene.
The result is a material with high opacity, breathability, drape and stretch that’s really a delight to wear.
ALDER SHORT LEG SHAPE
I can absolutely see why folks are loving the cut of this short. The ultra wide opening is roomy and comfortable. Nothing is getting squeezed.
I also love the longer 5″ inseam and the band around the hem gives it shape.
The side paneling around the pocket adds interest and creates vertical channels visually.
ALDER SHORT SIZING
I will say that if I were to order these in another colour, which I am seriously considering, I would size up to a Medium from the Small that I’m wearing. While still roomy and totally comfortable, I was hoping for the oversized fit that is shown on the model. I have an ample butt (no complaints!) and I was going to go for a Medium until the reviews mentioned the fit running large. I panicked and went for the Small but in hindsight, I should have trusted the size chart, which had me in the Medium according to my hip circumference (38/39 in).
Also, when it comes to shorts I usually err on the side of ordering up, rookie mistake!
WIDE WAISTBAND, MINIMAL DRAWSTRING
The waistband on the Alder Shorts is deep and very soft. It’s not too constricting at all though and allows for the shorts to be worn high or low on the waist as desired.
The drawstrings on the Leigh Top and Alder Shorts is super clean and minimal. No knots or hardware, which is definitely my preference.
SO DO THEY PASS THE SITTING TEST?
One of the hardest parts about finding shorts I actually enjoy wearing is finding styles that are comfortable enough to sit in. Denim shorts, I’m sorry to say, are usually more suited for standing than sitting.
The Alder Short however, happens to be VERY conducive to sitting, crouching, squatting, even sitting cross-legged. The leg doesn’t ride up or scrunch uncomfortably through the hip. The centre seam doesn’t find its way where it isn’t welcome and the fabric holds its shape so well that creasing is minimal.
I keep thinking that these are a perfect summer short for mums with young kids that are always bending or squatting down.
LOOK 2
Next up we have the BELLE BOXY PLAYSUIT, which I was really excited about. I love the Clove colour way (it also comes in a stunning slate blue) and I think this piece will be great for breezy summer days spent outside, going for walks with Genie, getting into the garden, hopping into the boat and going for dinners with friends. I can picture myself pulling this playsuit on over a swimsuit between dips and daily life as well.
BELLE BOXY PLAYSUIT – Clove – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
GILES QUILTED SLIDE 2.0 – Chanterelle – True to Size – I’m wearing my usual US 7
CURVED HEM
I really like the wide fit and curved hem on the leg. It gives a nod to a running short style while still feeling minimal and elevated.
OVERSIZE NOTCH LAPEL
This design detail feels like it was pulled from a trench coat and gives the playsuit a grown up, tailored feel.
DOUBLE D RING BELT
The detachable belt is a fun add on, in reality however, I’ll probably go without it. The belt helps to conceal an elastic waistband, but ends up feeling a bit fussy and slides around due to the slippery material.
LOOK 3
The last look I styled features the same ALDER SHORTS from the first outfit and the FULTON CROPPED KNIT. I was intrigued by this knit and it ended up being my favourite of the VARLEY styles that I tested out. It just has such a great shape and texture to it. It also looks great with baggy jeans or a wide leg silk pant.
This look is giving ladies who lunch after a game of squash or a round of croquet and I’m definitely here for it. Read on a for a few more notable details.
LEIGH HIGH NECK TANK – Snow White – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
ALDER SHORTS – Snow White – True to Size – I’m wearing a S, more fit notes below.
GILES QUILTED SLIDE 2.0 – Clove – True to Size – I’m wearing a S
OPEN WAFFLE TEXTURE
The 100% cotton waffle knit is so breezy and soft. It adds texture to a look without feeling too dense. This is a perfect top layer for over a bralette or fitted tank.
EXAGGERATED SHOULDERS & CAP SLEEVE
I love the shape that these oversize, ribbed cap sleeves create on this piece. This top is unique to anything I’ve tried before and I really like how the shape offers coverage as well as a sleeveless feel.
GILES QUILTED SLIDES
Last but not least, I have to shout out these faux suede slides. They were sooooo comfy, right out of the box and the formed footbed and puffy straps make them a delight to walk in.
The fit is true to size.
Thanks so much for tuning in folks!
I hope you enjoyed this little introduction to VARLEY. Overall, I’ve found that the line is of excellent quality with keen attention to details. If you’re looking for some unique and highly wearable pieces, be sure to check out the full range.