Found in Issue No. 299
How To Wear Linen In The Chicest Way
- Edited by
- Des Lewis
- Words by
- Frankie Graddon
The Trouser
Pull-on drawstrings, easy straight-legs, tailored and wide – whatever the silhouette, linen trousers are one of the hardest-working summer items. Style them with a crisp cotton shirt and leather thong sandals for everyday, add a luxe tee for the weekend, wear them over a chic one-piece and with a woven tote on holiday.
The Dress
Consider a cool linen dress your one-step summer dressing formula. You won’t go wrong with classic black and white. For those seeking a pop of colour, reach for earthy tones that chime with the natural characteristics of the fabric. Whether going short or long, keep the look effortless with luxe sandals and a tote.
The Co-Ord
Breezy linen combined with the versatility of a matching set makes for supremely easy summer dressing. Pick your favourite silhouettes – be they pyjama separates or something more structured – and style simply with sleek flats and sunglasses.
The Suit
Solve the dilemma of hot-weather workwear with a linen suit. A more casual cut (a relaxed-fit blazer, wide trousers) will keep the look cool and comfortable. Contrast the natural fabric with super-slick leather accessories. Or dress the look up for weddings with barely-there sandals and sculptural jewellery.
The Shorts
If your long-time shorts type has been denim, consider switching things up with a linen pair. Both casual and tailored styles come with a polished yet relaxed aesthetic, thanks to the soft structure of the fabric. Add a belt and team with a coordinating linen top or classic cotton T-shirt.
The Longline Waistcoat
The longline waistcoat has cemented itself as a core wardrobing piece. When rendered in linen, it makes for a smart summer style which can be added to lightweight tailored trousers for the office or a slim skirt for evening.
The Top
Diversify your summer rotation of cotton blouses and tanks by adding a linen top into the mix. Simple shapes work best: a classic shell, halter or camisole will refresh the look of your jeans and cargos. As for the evening? Opt for black with gathered detailing and style with sleek trousers.
The Skirt
Skirts feel all the more relevant this season, and linen is one of the chicest ways to wear them. With a little more weight than cotton and silk, the material gives more form to a skirt silhouette, making it a good option for smarter city and evening wear.
The Shirt
We’d go as far as to say that every summer wardrobe needs a linen shirt. A classic, airy button-down will prove invaluable over the hotter months, worn with tailoring, denim or even as a cover-up over swimwear. A relaxed fit offers maximum breeziness. Stick to versatile staple colourways: black, white, blue or a stripe.