Whether you’re heading on an epic summer sojourn or simply looking to update your warm-weather wardrobe, stocking up on some linen staples is never a bad idea. Not only will the best linen clothing for women carry you through both formal and casual occasions, but they also tend to be light (a given, considering the fabric), breathable (it has natural moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool), and machine-washable (for easy care and maintenance). Of course, linen essentials are also versatile enough to wear multiple times throughout a trip—not to mention the entire summer season.
Wherever your summer travels may take you, pack wisely by bringing along some tried-and-true linen basics from trusted, Traveler-loved brands like Madewell, Anthropologie, Everlane, and Left on Friday. Keep reading for a few of our favorite light-as-air pieces of linen clothing for women, from dresses and tops to skirts and jackets.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
Shop the best linen clothing staples:
The linen button-down
When it comes to the most-worn linen clothing for women, button-downs are at the top of the list. They are great for layering over your favorite tops and dresses or simply wearing solo with a pair of matching pants, shorts, or skirts (that is, depending on the look you’re going for). This timeless wardrobe staple has a distinctively relaxed and laid-back style about them—and what’s especially great is that they truly go with anything. Whether you prefer them solid or striped, oversized or classic, we’ve rounded up our top picks below.
The linen pant
Nothing screams summer like a pair of breezy linen pants, which can easily take you from the beach to the bar—especially if you swap the flip-flops for a pair of heels, wedges, or sandals. (Bonus points if you choose to zhuzh up the outfit with accessories like chunky jewels or a cute clutch.) For an even more laid-back look, consider a pair of elastic waist joggers—which are just as comfy as a pair of sweats, though they’re much cooler and appear much more polished and put together—made with, you guessed it, 100 percent linen.
The linen short and skirt
The below selection of linen shorts and skirts are best described as stylish, airy, and comfy. For a more tailored look, snag a straight-silhouetted mini skirt or a pair of long-ish shorts (the one below from & Other Stories, which boasts pretty pleats and double pockets, checks all the boxes). Or, for a hint of playfulness, opt for a classic mid-length skirt adorned with buttons á la the Boden pick paired with a solid or patterned crop top or oversized button-down (if it’s also linen, all the better).
The linen top
A quintessential summer staple, the best linen tops will keep you cool all season long. Our top picks include everything from a timeless babydoll camisole that can be easily layered with a denim jacket to a sunny yellow-hued flutter-sleeve blouse (best styled with leggings, jeans, or bike shorts for a day of sightseeing or lounging in the airport), to a classic chambray-inspired shirt dress that can pull double-duty as a cover-up or chic mini dress for a fun night out. We’ve also got you covered with not one, but two cropped options to beat the heat: a square-neck one adorned with buttons down the back from Bella Dahl and a sleeveless polo option complete with a pointed collar and V-neckline from Theory.
The linen dress
Whether you’re headed to the beach, the airport lounge, or the bar, a great linen dress is breezy and versatile. You’ll find them in all different lengths (from maxi to midi to mini) and colors and patterns (options range from crisp whites and neutral olive greens to nautical-esque stripes and fun florals). Some frocks also have fun features like cut-outs, ruffles, and corset-style bodices. Ahead, a few of our favorite lightweight linen dresses from brands like Reformation, Tommy Bahama, and Left on Friday.
The linen jacket
Do yourself a favor this season by ditching your favorite overworn sweatshirt (you know the one) or bulky jean jacket in favor of something more lightweight, such as one of these linen jackets. These summertime staples are ideal for layering under your favorite tee or tank and can be worn both during the day and at night; size up for a looser, slightly oversized fit.
Linen blazers, meanwhile, offer a more preppy look, making them a must-have for business travel—especially in the scorching heat. For a less formal ’fit, look no further than our favorite button-front linen jacket from Michael Stars, which hits right below the waist and comes in a handful of hues like hot pink and bright green for a fun pop of color. The Quince option—which clocks in at under $60, comes in seven colors and patterns, and offers a light and airy construction—is another excellent choice.
The linen accessories
Thanks to its durability and featherweight feel, it’s no surprise that linen makes an excellent fabric for wearable accessories like baseball caps that won’t weigh you (or, more specifically, your head) down, summery tote bags, and lightweight scarves. The latter—especially the aptly named Airy Linen Scarf from Eileen Fisher that’s mentioned below—are great for breezy nights on the beach since they can be easily draped around your shoulders or, when not in use, simply stowed away in your aforementioned linen tote bag.
