5 stylish ways to wear linen this season

It’s our go-to summer fabric for a reason…

Krissy Turner

20 June 2022

Anyone else spend 40 minutes ironing a linen shirt this morning? Only to then get off the tube looking like a crumpled mess? Join the club. But love it or hate it, linen is a huge trend this season, and for good reason.

After years seen as a dated fabric, it’s had a modern makeover of late in the form of tailored separates and chic dresses, and honestly, I can’t get enough. I’ve had three linen shirts and a pair of trousers on high rotation in the past week, and I’d argue it’s the only reason I got through the heatwave in style.

Here are five ways to wear it that work for every occasion…

For a big meeting at work

Workwear in summer is no mean feat: the printed mini dress or denim shorts you might turn to on the weekend just won’t cut it, but that doesn’t mean you need to sit at your desk sweating in a black suit.

A camel linen number is what’ll see you through, especially if you’ve got a big meeting and need to look smart. Team with a blouse and loafers for a professional look, then a grey T-shirt and chunky dad sandals for the foreseeable.

For a city wedding

An all-day wedding in the city and in the heat presents a ton of sartorial issues. You’ll need to stay cool, but look suitably glam and stylish, and a linen dress ticks every box. Of course, there’s no getting away from the inevitable creases, but a fitted bodice should minimise them, and a print should help to disguise.

Throw in some pastel heels, a cute bag and oversized earrings, and you have a day to night look that I guarantee will get you compliments.

For a brunch with friends

Jeans and a nice top is a go-to for cute occasions with friends, and where ‘nice top’ typically means a satin cami, a structured crop or a bodysuit, in the summer, especially if you’re brunching al fresco in the sun, linen is one of the wisest options.

The doesn’t have to mean a camel linen button-down, however. The high street is packed with bright options and my favourite is this oversized yellow number from Lindex. Wear it with your favourite blue jeans and strappy heels.

For a picnic in the park

Shorts co-ords are huge this season, and I’m a big fan. They can be dressed up or down to suit most summer events, and a casual picnic is the perfect time to debut a new set.

The best kind are in punchy shades: this Hush set comes in cobalt and pepto-pink, and only needs comfy sandals and a giant straw tote (for snacks, obvs) to be park-ready.

For a day date

Where your favourite satin dress might feel sticky and show sweat patches in the heat, linen will keep you cool and dries quickly. If you’re out on a cute day date, you don’t want to risk a long walk and having to worry about your outfit. A bold crop top with floaty wide-leg trousers is flattering and effortless, especially with a pair of walkable block-heeled mules.