Linen Clothing for Women: 7 Essentials to Add to Your Packing List

08.08.2023 - 18:37 / cntraveler.com

Summer may be in full swing, but it’s never too late to rethink your warm-weather wardrobe—and that's where lightweight linen staples come in. Not only will the best linen pieces carry you through both formal and casual occasions, but they also tend to be light (a given, considering the fabric), machine-washable (for easy care and maintenance), and, of course, versatile enough to wear multiple times throughout a trip.

Wherever your summer travels may take you, pack wisely by bringing along some tried-and-true linen basics from trusted brands like Madewell, Anthropologie, Everlane, and Left on Friday. Keep reading for a few of our favorite light-as-air pieces of linen clothing for women, from dresses and tops to skirts and jackets.

Do yourself a favor this season by ditching your favorite overworn sweatshirt (you know the one) or bulky jean jacket in favor of something more lightweight, such as one of these linen jackets. Linen blazers offer a more preppy look, making them a must-have for business travel—especially in the scorching-hot summer heat. For a less formal ’fit, look no further than our favorite button-front linen jacket from Michael Stars, which hits right below the waist and comes in a handful of hues like hot pink and bright green for a fun pop of color.

Nothing screams summer like a pair of breezy linen pants. Wide-leg linen bottoms can easily take you from the beach to the bar—especially if you swap the flip-flops for a pair of heels, wedges, or sandals. (Bonus points if you choose to zhuzh up the outfit with accessories like chunky jewels or a cute clutch.) For an even more laid-back look, consider a pair of elastic waist joggers—which are just as comfy as a pair of sweats though they’re much cooler and appear much more polished and put together—made with, you guessed it, 100 percent linen.

The below selection of linen shorts and skirts—which are available across a range of price points, from under $80 to $300—are best described as stylish, airy, and comfy. For a more tailored look, snag a straight-silhouetted mini skirt or a pair of long-ish shorts (the one below from Anthropologie, which boasts a built-in belt, checks all the boxes). Or, for a hint of edginess, opt for a mid-length skirt with a slit paired with a solid or patterned crop top or oversized button-down (if it’s also linen, all the better).

A quintessential summer staple, the best linen tops will keep you cool all season long. Our top picks include everything from a button-embellished camisole that can be easily layered with a denim jacket to a nautical striped tee (best styled with leggings, jeans, or bike shorts for a day of sightseeing or lounging in the airport), to a pretty pleated shirt dress that can pull