I’ve been wearing Athleta’s linen pants for years – both the joggers and the wide leg versions. Linen pants are just a perfectly versatile closet option you can easily dress up or down, and they’re especially great when you don’t want to wear shorts in hot and humid weather. So when I saw they updated the wide-Leg style, I had to try them.
And honestly? They’re even better than the original.
Athleta Retreat Linen Pants: Old (left) vs. New (right)
They didn’t change much—but the updates they did make? They make a big difference. The rise is slightly higher, there’s more room through the hips and butt (no weird pulling or puckering), and the new slit hem works with sneakers, heels, or flat sandals.
They also swapped the contrasting drawstring for one that actually matches the pants (a small detail that makes a surprisingly big difference), and the new letter-based sizing somehow fits even better than the old number system. As always, they still come in multiple colors and in regular, tall, and petite lengths for the best fit possible.
How I’m Wearing Athleta’s Linen Pants: 5 Easy Outfits
I styled them a bunch of different ways—from casual tees to dressier date-night looks—to show how versatile they are. Keep scrolling for outfit inspo, a few style tips, and why these pants are 100% worth grabbing before they sell out (again) – especially when they’re 30% off during the Semi-Annual sale (ends 7/8)!
1. Everyday Casual
These pants are easy to throw on and go – but still look like you tried. Whether it’s school drop-off, errands, or just lounging, pairing them with a basic tank or tee and sneakers makes them the ultimate comfy-cute outfit.
pants (s) | tank (s) | similar sandals
I love the length of this cropped tank from Old Navy. It hits just right with high-rise pants without showing any belly. And while I’m always here for a monochromatic moment, it comes in 20 colors and in regular, tall, and petite sizes. (All under $15!)
pants (s) | similar graphic tee | sneakers (on sale!)
Graphic tees come and go, but I’ll always reach for one. And these Vans? Same classic slip-ons we all love at TME – but with a deluxe cushioned insole that makes a huge difference. I wore them straight out of the store (no socks) and walked around for hours with zero issues. No break-in time at all… unlike my other pairs. And this butter yellow color?? So good. They’re on sale, too.
2. Polished but Effortless
For those days when you want to feel a little more pulled together, but still don’t want to try too hard. The linen-on-linen look is especially good for hot days – you’ll stay cool, but still look chic. Add a platform sandal and you’re good to go.
pants (s) | top (m) | platform sandals
These sandals were so much comfier than I expected. They give serious height, but the leather is soft and pliable (no digging or rubbing). And this Reformation top? It’s double-lined, so it’s not sheer or clingy, but still breezy enough for hot weather. Such a good combo for summer.
This cropped linen top from Express is a little shorter than the Reformation one above, but it totally works with the high rise of the pants. The hem’s slightly longer in the back, so I’ve actually turned it around when I wanted more coverage in front – it works! It’s not double-lined, but the fabric is easy and lightweight, and it pairs perfectly with these pants. It comes in a bunch of colors and is 50% off right now (under $20!).
3. Elevated & Ready to Go Out
Surprisingly easy to dress up, these pants work just as well for a casual dinner or drinks. I love them with a fitted top or something with texture (like that beaded cami). Just add heels and maybe a little jewelry.
pants (s) | tank (m) | similar sandals
I love that the slit at the hem of these pants shows off your shoes, it works especially well with a wedge heel like this. And this linen-blend top from Abercrombie was such a fun find. It also comes in white, red, and a red floral, but stock changes constantly, so it’s worth checking back if you’re into it!
Speaking of Abercrombie, this halter top is part of their bra-free line – and I’m a big fan. They’ve got tops, camis, bodysuits, and dresses, all designed with built-in support. Depending on the fit or color, I’ll sometimes add nipple covers underneath, but overall the styles are surprisingly supportive and super comfy.
4. When the Temps Drop
Linen pants in cooler weather? Yep. Just throw on a cozy cardigan or lightweight sweater and you’re instantly fall-transition-ready. These pants are soft and breathable, so they layer well without bulk.
pants (s) | similar cardigan (on sale!)
I bought this cardigan years ago during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and it’s still one of my favorites. This one from Quince has a really similar vibe: it’s 100% cotton with that same relaxed, boyfriend-y fit. And I’m loving all the gorgeous neutrals it comes in right now. (Bonus: it’s under $60!)
5. Casual Glam
This one’s a personal fave. It’s simple – just a t-shirt and linen pants – but the slight shimmer in the tee and those black heels take it up a notch. Perfect for when you want to feel put-together without going full-on dressed up. Think: dinner with friends, low-key date night, or just feeling cute for no reason.
pants (s) | shirt (xs) | similar sandals
It’s hard to see the actual texture and shimmer of the t-shirt through this pic, so click through to see what I mean by a “glam t-shirt”… I’m especially loving it in the shiny gold color (both on sale!). I’m also obsessed with the new muscle tee style in three shiny colors – the bronze being my absolute fave. Reviewers LOVE this top!
It’s hard to capture the texture and shimmer of this tee in a photo, so definitely click through to see what I mean by a “glam t-shirt.” I’m especially loving it in the shiny gold color – both are on sale! I’m also obsessed with the newer muscle tee version that comes in three shiny shades (the bronze is my fave). Reviewers are raving about this one, too!
Of course, they’re also perfect to just throw on over a swimsuit. There’s just something about linen that says summer. And vacation. Yessss. If you want to go all in, Athleta has this same breezy linen fabric in 4″ shorts, longer bermuda shorts, a long-sleeve button-up, a short-sleeve version, ankle pants, and even a romper – basically everything you need to build a mix-and-match travel wardrobe. (And yep, they’re all on sale right now.)
XOXO,
Scotti
