I'm 32—This Is the Summer Trend I'm Buying From M&S, Arket and H&M

In my experience, linen is one of those fabrics that gets a bad rap. My theory is that there are a lot of people who hate ironing (I mean, fair enough), and as a result, don't understand just how chic it can be. Other than its propensity to crease easily, I also think it's often associated with a kind of old-fashioned or dated hippie style, so people fear it might age them. I can see why: Flowing, shapeless outfits hardly make you feel streamlined and polished. But the latest linen items I've spotted on the high street couldn't be further from that.
Right now, in my expert opinion, there are three high street stores leading the way when it comes to linen: H&M, Arket and Marks & Spencer. The good news is that each one has its own style. If you're looking for warm-weather-ready items that won't look out of place on a night out or on the beach, then H&M is where to go. But if you're after tailored items and co-ords then it's Arket you want to head to (the matching sets are a staple in my summer wardrobe). As for M&S, this is where you want to go for throw-on dresses and basics, and their pull-on linen trousers are also a sellout hit. So keep scrolling for the best affordable linen buys you'll find this spring and summer.
Shop the Linen Fashion Trend:
1. ARKET
2. H&M
3. MARKS & SPENCER
For those who love a matching set.
There's something about this neckline that feels so premium.
I'm a big fan of the pairing of this blazer with the matching trousers.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her top-selling column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily interned at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she managed the fashion team and travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
-
Simone Ashley Is in the Fast Lane
Since her breakout role in Bridgerton, our Spring Issue cover star has quickly risen to A-list status. Up next, she masters the rom-com leading lady.
By Liv Little
-
The Spring 2025 Shopping Guide: Where to Buy the Biggest Trends of the Season
Your short list of the season's key buys.
By Kristen Nichols
-
These $20 Old Navy Flats Are Just as Chic as the $900 Pair I Have Been Coveting Since Last Spring
These are guaranteed to sell out.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
These Are the 7 Stylish Shoe Trends Fashion People Will Be Wearing With Jeans This Spring
I see chic denim outfits in your future.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
If You Have Great Taste, You Don't Want to Miss These 30 Chic J.Crew and Madewell Sale Picks
So many gems. So little time.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Chicest European Women Have Convinced Me to Try This Effortless Accessory
Simple yet so chic.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
29 Spring Items From Free People That I'm Shopping for 2025
These are going to go quickly.
By Chichi Offor
-
I Looked at Every Single Quince Item, and These 5 Are the Ones You Want
Perfect basics with a trendy spin.
By Copelyn Bengel
-
10 Things to Buy in March for a More Expensive-Looking Wardrobe
Your monthly shopping list.
By Allyson Payer
-
I'm a Former Revolve Buyer—These 26 Items Are on My "Buy for Spring" List
By Anna LaPlaca