Olivia Short Ivory vs Espresso: How to Choose Your Color

By Kat The Label | Lace Lingerie & Lingerie Sets | Published: 2026-11-01

Category: Buying Guides

Both Olivia Shorts share the same scalloped lace trim and satin waist tie. Here's how to pick Ivory or Espresso based on wardrobe, skin tone and occasion.

Quick answer

Choose Olivia Short Ivory if you want the most versatile bridal and everyday pair, and Olivia Short Espresso if you prefer a deeper neutral that hides wear and pairs with warm or dark tones. The cut and fabric are the same, so the decision comes down to color, care and price.

What actually differs between the two

The two Olivia Shorts share the same relaxed fit, scalloped lace trim, satin waist tie and 93% polyester, 7% elastane fabric. The only meaningful differences are the color and the catalog price: Ivory is listed at USD 44.16 and Espresso at USD 50.37, both against a USD 69.00 comparison price. Neither option changes the silhouette, so don't expect one to fit differently from the other.

Because the fabric is delicate and hand cut, each pair may vary slightly. That is a normal characteristic of the make, not a defect, but it means you should treat both colors with the same cold hand wash and dry-flat-in-shade routine.

How color changes the way you wear them

Ivory reads lighter and more formal, which makes it the natural pick for bridal moments, matching robe sets and photos where you want a soft, bright finish. It also shows marks and dye transfer more readily, so it rewards careful storage and washing.

Espresso reads warmer and more grounded. It blends into darker bedding and loungewear, hides everyday smudges better and works as a low-key neutral under oversized shirts or knits. Against very pale skin it creates a stronger contrast; against deeper skin it can look almost tonal.

The trade-off you should accept before buying

There is no performance upgrade in the Espresso pair despite the higher price. You are paying for the color, not for a sturdier fabric or a different cut. If budget is the deciding factor, Ivory is the lower-cost entry into the same design.

The reverse trade-off is visibility: Ivory needs more mindful care to stay looking fresh, while Espresso is more forgiving day to day. Pick the one whose upkeep you will actually keep up with.

Decision rules for picking your color

If the shorts are for a wedding or bridal morning: Choose Ivory. Its light, formal finish matches robes, white bedding and bright photography better than a dark neutral. Buy Ivory first if bridal use is the main reason for the purchase.
If they will be worn most days at home: Choose Espresso. The deeper tone hides everyday marks and blends with darker loungewear, so it stays presentable with less fuss.
If you want one pair to do both: Start with Ivory for its wider styling range, then add Espresso later as the low-maintenance everyday pair. Treat the two colors as a set over time rather than a single either-or choice.
If price is the deciding factor: Ivory is listed lower at USD 44.16 versus USD 50.37 for Espresso. The fabric and fit are the same, so the saving does not cost you construction quality.
If you are unsure about sizing: Check the size options on the product page before choosing a color. The relaxed fit and satin tie give some adjustment, but the cut itself does not change between Ivory and Espresso.

Olivia Short at a glance

Olivia Short Ivory: Scalloped lace trim with signature luxe satin and a soft satin waist tie in a relaxed fit. The tie lets you adjust the waist for comfort, while the relaxed cut suits lounging and layering rather than a close, structured fit.
Olivia Short Ivory
Olivia Short Espresso: Same scalloped lace trim, satin waist tie and relaxed fit, finished in Espresso. You get identical construction and comfort, so the deeper color is purely a styling and upkeep choice.
Olivia Short Espresso