Okay, we’ll admit it. We’re linen obsessed. From understated, minimalist dresses to breezy trousers, there’s a lot to love about the warm-weather hero, and there’s no wardrobe that couldn’t benefit from having a light linen option stored away ready for an impending heatwave. Summer is the best season for slipping into easy, fuss-free layers, and the linen shirt in particular has been providing the fashion set with plenty elegant of options for years and years.
From Meghan Markle’s airport looks to Angelina Jolie’s holiday wardrobe, linen shirts appear time and again when looking for summer inspiration, and now that the the weather is finally warm enough to break out airy shirts (before we quite literally break out in a sweat), now there’s no better time to talk about the different ways to wear them.
Even though the linen shirt is a timeless classic, it can be easy for it to feel quite “samey”. Thankfully, we’ve come up with a handful of easy-to-replicate outfits that bring the shirt up to date with just a few key pieces and some standout accessories. So before you pair a plain white shirt with a safe beige trouser, here are five easy outfits all built around the linen shirt that feel effortlessly cool. You’re welcome.
Style Notes: The shirt and shorts co-ord is back for another summer, and we couldn’t be happier. This instant outfit is a masterclass in how to look put together in just five minutes, no planning required. Simply pull on and add a slip-on sandal and a basket bag for a summer look ready for the beach, weekend errands or brunch with friends.
With Nothing Underneath co-ords come in just about every colour and fabrication, but the linen is a personal fave.
If there’s any accessory to be seen with this summer, it has to be a raffia basket bag.
Pared-back perfection from Russell & Bromley.
Can’t decide between classic gold or trending silver? Wear both at once.
Style Notes: If there’s one trend you can rely on to return every summer, it has to be safari. From utility pockets to khaki greens and sandy browns, the urban explorer aesthetic manages to appeal to everyone in some way, shape or form. Whether it’s cargo shorts, chunky sandals or camo dresses, the easiest way to elevate a linen shirt from simple to chic is by putting together a look fit for exploring far-flung destinations (even if you don’t have a holiday booked…yet).
A universally flattering shade of green.
Be still my beating heart. A linen skirt that feels entirely modern.
I’ll never tire of Dragon Diffusion bags, especially the styles large enough for everything but the kitchen sink.
I know, I can’t quite believe these are high-street either.
The only thing more versatile than a pair of black sunnies? A pair of tortoiseshell ones.
Style Notes: Sorry sarongs, our favourite new cover-up is an oversized shirt worn open over swimwear. Nothing takes a look from beach to bar quite like it (and doubling up on linen can only be a good thing). So dig out your favourite bikini, add a comfortable sandal and recline in a linen ensemble that’s less matchy-matchy than the co-ord, but equally as impactful.
This shirt is currently one of M&S’ bestsellers this week, and it’s easy to see why.
I don’t know what I love more, the colour or the cut.
Unexpected green makes a fun upgrade from camel.
Dune’s iconic Loupa sandal is back in more colourways and materials, but classic black is a summer staple.
There isn’t an outfit that can’t be improved by a simple gold chain.
Style Notes: And here we present the solution to your “should I take a jacket?” queries–styling a loose shirt as outerwear. When it’s slightly too windy for bare arms but far too warm for a denim jacket, add a linen shirt and nonchalantly roll up the sleeves for a laidback take on occasion dressing. In fact, we’re wondering why we didn’t do it sooner.
This looks just as good tucked into white denim as it does worn open over a floral dress.
Wedding season called and H&M just answered.
These look at least triple their actual price tag.
An instantly recognisable piece from The Row is most definitely a wise investment.
Style Notes: After carefully planning your outfits all week, the weekend is your time to relax in a simple look that is as polished as it is practical. This pairing is proof that jeans and trainers will go with just about anything in the right colour palette, and this off-duty spin on the linen shirt is a look that even the most inconspicuous A-lister would approve of.
With seven different colourways, you’re spoilt for choice.
Agolde’s Pinch jeans have become the stuff of legend thanks to their exceptional quality and fit.
New Balance are continuing their run of sought-after trainers with the 550.
XXL totes are having a (big) moment this season.
Is it just me, or does every off-duty celeb, editor and model own a baseball cap?
