Picture this: It’s a warm summer morning, the sun is shining, and you’re getting ready for the day. You want to wear something that feels light, breathable, and stylish… something that keeps you cool without compromising on elegance. That’s when linen comes in.
If you’ve ever struggled to find the perfect balance between comfort and style, linen is about to become your new best friend.
Whether you’re heading on vacation, strolling through a farmer’s market, or meeting friends for brunch, linen pieces are the ultimate summer wardrobe basics that work for every occasion. Not only is this fabric effortlessly chic, but it also helps you embrace that relaxed, put-together vibe without even trying.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to look stylish with minimal effort?
Let’s dive into why linen is the perfect fabric for warm weather, how to style it, and whether it’s the right choice for you. (because yes, linen is not for everyone)
Ready to learn how to create quick summer outfits with linen? Let’s get started!
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
Why Linen is the Perfect Fabric for Summer:
When temperatures rise, heavy and clingy fabrics can make summer days unbearable. That’s why linen is the ultimate summer fabric. It keeps you cool, stylish, and comfortable all season long.
Here’s why it works so well:
🏆 Breathability: Linen’s natural fibers allow air to circulate, preventing you from feeling overheated.
🏆Moisture-Wicking: It absorbs moisture and dries so quickly, making it perfect for hot and humid climates.
🏆 Lightweight & Comfortable: Unlike synthetic fabrics that trap heat, linen feels light and airy on the skin.
🏆 Timeless & Versatile: Whether dressed up or down, linen pieces never go out of style.
Cute Summer Outfits With Linen:
Linen is one of the best fabrics for putting together stylish yet effortless summer outfits. Whether you’re going for a laid-back beachy look or a polished evening outfit, linen can do it all.
The best part? It keeps you cool while looking incredibly chic.
Here are some of my favorite summer outfits with linen that you can easily recreate:
- Breezy Beach Look: A white linen button-down over a swimsuit, paired with linen pants and strappy sandals.
- Casual City Exploring: Linen pants with a simple tank and white sneakers for all-day comfort.
- Effortless Brunch Outfit: A linen maxi dress with espadrilles and statement earrings.
- Polished Evening Ensemble: Linen pants and a going-out top with block heels for a breathable yet sophisticated outfit.
No matter the occasion, summer outfits with linen give you the best of both worlds: style and comfort! Now let’s get to some of those linen outfit ideas, shall we?
⭐️ Quick Summer Outfits: Everyday Linen Looks
Linen is perfect for creating effortless, everyday outfits. Try these combos:
- A white linen button-down with a front knot, paired with breezy wide leg joggers and sneakers. And don’t forget about your accessories!
- A white linen button-down with a front knot, paired with a breezy midi skirt and classic white sneakers. This is the perfect mix of effortless and chic! And don’t forget about your accessories! Statement earrings, layered necklaces, and sunglasses add the perfect finishing touch.
- A white linen button-down, worn open as a light layer over a basic tank top and flowy wide-leg pants, creates an effortlessly chic look. Complete the outfit with neutral espadrilles, a woven crossbody bag, and delicate jewelry for a polished yet relaxed vibe! 😊
- A linen jumpsuit or linen maxi dress paired with leather sandals for weekend errands or brunch. I actually just ordered this linen dress and I can’t wait to see how it fits! (I’ll add the pic here, no worries)
⭐️ Exploring in Linen: Practical and Stylish!
Whether you’re wandering through a new city or heading out for a casual adventure, linen can keep you comfortable and stylish. I travel full time while living out of a 20′ carry-on bag, so I think I can say traveling with linen is my expertise 😅
Because we only travel to warm weather destinations, this is the real way I was able to test linen and that’s how I fell in love with it too. It’s really the perfect fabric for when it’s hot outside!
Try these cute vacation looks with linen pieces:
- A linen button-down and linen pants for a relaxed but stylish beachside outfit. In the photo below I’m layering it with this gym crop top that also looks great with my regular clothes! (that’s how I maximize every piece inside my little suitcase as a full time carry-on traveler)
- A white linen button-down, loosely tucked into a flowy midi skirt, creating the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Styled it with Birkenstocks and a wide-brim hat, and you have an outfit that’s ideal for exploring under the sun while staying effortlessly chic.
- Style your linen shirt over your one-piece bathing suit for a cute, yet simple beach day outfit. Yes, you can use your linen shirt as a cover-up! I do this all the time.
- A linen button-down over a maxi dress + sneakers for a chic, stylish and comfortable day of explorations. Pro tip: when deciding which dresses to pack, make sure to bring dresses that are either sleeveless or with simple sleeves. This way you’ll be able to style your linen shirt over it and create even more outfits during your trip!
- Linen pants and a going-out top for a balanced look that works for sightseeing and a casual dinner. These linen pants are amazing and so comfortable! I love them in brown, but they have so many cute colors available.
- A white linen button-down, tied at the waist, layered over a flowy printed mini dress for a breezy, stylish beachside look. Pair it with Birkenstocks, a cute headband, and sunnies!
Linen is Timeless, But Is Your Closet Functional Enough to Style It?
Owning beautiful linen pieces is one thing, but styling them effortlessly depends on how well it goes with other pieces in your closet.
If your wardrobe feels overwhelming, take this Closet Score Quiz to see if it’s time to simplify and refresh. And no worries, I’ll tell you what to do depending on your score!
⭐️ Linen for Going Out: Dress It Up!
Linen isn’t just for relaxed, casual looks. It can be styled for fabulous evenings out, too. Summer nights can be hot! But no worries, with linen you won’t be a sweaty uncomfortable mess!
Try these some of these cute summer outfits with linen:
- Linen pants paired with a chic going-out top and espadrille wedges for an elegant but breathable look.
- A linen maxi dress like this one, with statement earrings for an effortlessly stylish summer dinner outfit.
- A white linen button-down tied at the waist over neutral wide leg pants for a relaxed yet polished evening ensemble.
✈️ Why I Love Traveling with Linen!
As a full-time traveler, I need clothes that are light, versatile, and stylish. Linen ticks all those boxes!
It’s perfect for hot destinations (which are the places we mostly visit), looks effortlessly chic in vacation photos, and works from day to night with just a few accessory swaps.
My go-to linen pieces when traveling?
✅ A linen button-down (works as a shirt, cover-up, and layering piece)
If you’re traveling soon, I can send you a customized packing list that’s tried and tested – you just have to answer 2 questions about your trip, and you’ll get your packing list in 30 seconds! 🧳
What To Read Next?
- How to create a gorgeous summer capsule wardrobe with just 25 pieces.
- 7 timeless pieces that will never go out of style!
- How to wear a maxi skirt? – Shopping tips for your body type!
🚫 Who is Linen NOT For? 🚫
While I love linen, I know it’s not for everyone. If you’re someone who:
- Hates wrinkles: Linen creases easily, and if you prefer a crisp look without steaming or ironing, it might not be your thing.
- Wants stretchy fabrics: Linen has minimal stretch, so if you love ultra-soft, form-fitting materials, you might find it too structured.
- Prefers low-maintenance clothing: Though linen is durable, it does require some care to maintain its best look, like proper washing and storage.
You may have noticed that I didn’t list linen being expensive as a con, and that’s because high quality linen can be affordable, thanks to… 👇🏼
My Favorite Affordable Linen Brand: Quince ❤️
If you’re looking for high-quality linen without the hefty price tag, Quince is my go-to. Their linen pieces are classic, well-made, and budget-friendly.
Whether you need a staple linen dress, a chic linen blazer, or comfortable linen pants, Quince has amazing options that make styling linen easy breezy.
They also have other fabrics, but this post is about summer outfits with linen! Here are some other linen pieces I just ordered that have excellent reviews! I can’t wait to see how they fit:
- This gorgeous printed linen midi dress
- These linen shorts in navy (I have this top already, so I really want to make it like a DIY Matching Set)
- The same linen pants I already have, but in black (I think they would be an amazing option to go out)
- The same button down I have in white, but I ordered it in ‘light cargo’
Final Thoughts About Linen:
If there’s one thing I hope you take away from this, it’s that linen is the ultimate summer wardrobe hack. It’s effortlessly stylish, incredibly comfortable, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re jet-setting to a tropical destination, planning a city break, or simply looking for the easiest way to stay chic in the summer heat, linen has you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Give your wardrobe a little refresh and invest in a few timeless linen pieces. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Now, tell me: how are you styling your linen pieces this summer?
Let’s chat in the comments!
XO,
Aimara
P.S. If styling linen (or anything in your closet) feels harder than it should, remember to take the Closet Score Quiz! Find out if your wardrobe is working for you or if it’s time for a refresh. (and no worries, I’ll tell you exactly what to do depending on your score)
About The Author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
Other Style Related Articles You Will Love:
1️⃣ 70+ outfit ideas with a denim jacket.
2️⃣ How to style a white blazer
3️⃣ How to find your personal style (5 steps)
4️⃣ How to create your first capsule wardrobe (30 pieces, 100 outfits!)
5️⃣ How to wear white sneakers!
Did you learn how to create quick summer outfits with linen? Save it on your Pinterest for easy access anytime!
Leave a Reply