FS Riva shorts made with FS Juniper Heavyweight Linen

I’m a big fan of a pattern with multiple garment options included. I have made the Riva Top multiple times and with different length variations even a dress but today I pulled out the Riva Pattern yet again to make a second pant variation, the shorts! Just as I enjoyed the process of the pants when I made them in heavier 7.1oz Bleached Softened, I have enjoyed the shorts made in this beautiful 7.1 oz Juniper Softened! These feel like the perfect summer resort wear shorts to dress up or dress down your outfit and I’m not even going to a resort. 😉

FS Riva shorts made with FS Juniper Heavyweight Linen

FS Riva shorts made with FS Juniper Heavyweight Linen

Why did I use the Riva Pattern instead of making super simple shorts with an elastic waistband? I did this because they are just so classic and worth the extra steps. I already have several of that simple elastic waist style and wanted to add a tailored piece to my wardrobe that is a little dressier. Are these shorts everything I dreamed of and more? Ha, yes. I am very pleased with the results and the pattern sizing was very accurate. The heavier linen really completes the tailored look of these shorts. I’m always enamored by the texture of linen. I feel like everyone is embracing the bright vibrant colors this year, so jump in and pick your favorite cobalt, tangerine, raspberry or juniper green and get sewing.

FS

FS Riva shorts made with FS Juniper Heavyweight Linen

For the top, I found this sweet lightweight sweater tank at our favorite coffee shop/surf boutique Grove Surf and Coffee. It makes my outfit green on green and I really do like green so that’s perfect for me. The white floral detail just adds some extra summer joy. I might still make a linen top to pair with these beautiful shorts because sewing is just what I do! This top just felt fun and sometimes (especially in summer) you just need to have some fun.

FS Riva shorts made with FS Juniper Heavyweight Linen

Construction notes: I felt that the suggested shorts length on the Riva pattern is too close to a culotte. I shortened the length by 3.5 inches (9cm) when cutting out the pattern and still had plenty of length to make a generous hem. This feels a little more on trend for me but not a booty short, still classic while celebrating my/your beautiful legs. I also prefer a different method to install the zipper than this pattern offers so I added the zipper placement flap or placket extension to the center front of the pants when cutting them out and proceeded with a different zipper installation method. I actually used an old Butterick pattern B6372. This is funny because I don’t prefer the pants on the Butterick pattern but learned alot from the zipper instruction long ago and still remember that source. Keep making, keep learning and use what works for you.