7 Ways to Wear Linen This Summer
3 min readWe’ve hit peak summer, which means you’ve probably already experienced a heat wave or two. Whether you’re spending a quiet summer in your home city or discovering your new favorite spritz abroad, nothing keeps you cool like the season’s most coveted fabric: linen.
No summer wardrobe is complete without a piece—or several—of this timeless, breathable fabric dating back to ancient Egypt. The best part about it is its range: linen can be sophisticated, it can be loungey—it can be whatever you want it to be. Versatility abounds with this lightweight textile. What’s undeniable is that linen, in all its forms, brings an airy, easygoing charm that goes hand in hand with summertime. It’s a little crinkled, never quite perfect—but isn’t that just what summer is about?
Below, some inspiration for how to wear the staple this summer.
Brunch date
Be a ray of sunshine on your next brunch date in this linen-cotton blend minidress. The front button detail and A-line silhouette strike the perfect balance between flirty and sophisticated. Pair it with thong wedge sandals, a chic mini straw bag, and subtle jewelry for a touch of sparkle.
Weekend plans
Weekends are for fun, but if you need to squeeze in a few errands, consider a pair of linen Bermuda shorts to keep you looking and feeling cool for whatever the day has in store. The airy fabric and knee-length cut are just right for brunch, a picnic, the bookstore, grocery shopping—you name it. Wear them with mesh Mary Janes, a structured tote bag, and ornate pearls, and you’re set for the day.
Everyday sophistication
Some days call for everyday elegance, and a linen button-down top matched with an eyelet maxi skirt instantly says polished—not boring. Add a touch of personality with jelly thong sandals, a sculptural cuff, and a phone wristlet for on-the-go practicality.
Work soirée
For a look that’s work-appropriate and beyond, reach for a pair of drawstring linen trousers for a vibe that feels relaxed yet refined. Whether you’re doing cocktail hour on a rooftop or al fresco dining, stay within dress code with a whimsical button top and crochet sling-backs.
Vacay ready
Effortlessly transition through every moment of your vacation with an embellished linen set. Paired together or worn separately, this crew neck and skort duo lets you comfortably enjoy charming walks through coastal towns or an oceanview dinner at the resort. Bring along a large basket tote to carry all your essentials and whatever you may shop along the way.
Friend dinner
Linen easily transitions to nighttime in the form of a sleek burgundy skirt. Add contrast in texture with a silk bralette and watch the compliments roll in. A classic ankle-strap pump helps tie the look together, along with a ’90s-inspired shoulder bag and a statement padlock necklace.
Picnic style
Enjoy what’s left of picnic season with a ‘fit that’s equal parts cute and comfy. A pair of dotted pedal pushers feels like the perfect piece to bring a dose of playfulness while remaining practical. Complete your look with an adjustable tie top and breezy Mary Janes.
Why trust ELLE
Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.