I’ve worked in the fashion industry as a stylist and editor now for over a decade, and it’s only recently that I’ve started getting to grips with summer dressing. As a minimalist, I find that winter is easy—just layer classics like shirts and cashmere in a mix of neutral colours, throw on a good coat, and you’ve got a dependably chic look. But summer I’ve struggled with in the past. Part of me is drawn to all the colour, prints and frilly dresses, but then I remember it’s just not very me.
A few summers ago, in a desperate bid for inspiration, I looked to some of my favourite stylish people of all ages to figure out what it was they were all doing so right. Turns out linen was the common denominator in all of their outfits—from dresses to shirts and even tailoring. Of course, I went straight out and started building up my collection, and I’ve never looked back. The epitome of summer ease, linen, unlike recognisable prints or colour trends, is timeless, and the quality is long-lasting, so you can pull out the same classic pieces year after year. As soon as the temperatures rise, the light fabric works for relaxed weekends pottering around the house or running errands, it works for the office, and it even works as occasionwear. What’s not to like?
Despite linen being so superior in style and quality and looking darn polished, luckily, you don’t actually have to spend loads to add it to your wardrobe. Linen has become a huge category for the high street, and honestly, some of the best pieces I’ve found this year have been from more affordable spots.
Unsurprisingly, Arket—the minimalist mecca—does amazing linen pieces, and I can personally vouch for its shirts, shorts and linen trousers that I lived in last summer. H&M also has an excellent edit of everyday pieces this year, that are also really affordable. Meaning they're selling out fast. For smarter linen, I suggest looking to & Other Stories, whose linen dresses and tailoring rival any designer pieces I’ve seen to date.
Keep scrolling, then, for 30 of the chicest linen pieces worth investing in this summer. You’re welcome.
1. Arket
This collarless shirt feels especially minimalist.
An easy shirt to throw on on warm weekends.
These also come in a beige hue.
I think this will sell out so fast.
I love this whole look.
This comes in a range of colours from earthy hues to neon green.
Arket's red linen collection this season is so good.
I have a feeling you'd rely on these shorts all summer.
A white linen skirt can be styled for so many different occasions.
A layering essential.
2. H&M
So classic.
The kind of easy, throw-on trousers that you'll always be happy to have.
Perfect for those really sticky summer days.
This is such a gorgeous colour for all seasons.
Such a versatile summer shirt—and it comes in a wide range of colours, too.
This would be ideal to throw in your suitcase for a weekend away.
If I were you, I'd get the whole set.
Throw on for work, drinks or on holiday.
This pretty dress is perfect for work, weekends and weddings.
I'm obsessed with this blue.
3. & Other Stories
This easy summer dress also comes in black and two vibrant floral prints.
Linen doesn't have to be understated—I love this patterned set.
A neutral oversized linen shirt will always come in handy.
An easy, pull-on style that looks really chic.
A brilliant summer workwear piece.
A three-piece linen suit? I'm sold.
A classic summer black dress.
A linen blazer can take you from the office to weekend drinks.
This would be perfect for any summer events you have coming up.
Dress it up or down, the choice is yours.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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