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
The perfect white linen shirt.
I love throwing these on on warm weekends.
These shorts are so comfy! The perfect holiday pair.
Arket introduced linen co-ords last year, and I'm obsessed with these short-sleeve shirts paired with the drawstring shorts and trousers above.
I have these in both colours because they're so good.
This looks great thrown over a tank top and jeans.
A slouchy shirt always looks expensive and doubles as a great beach cover-up.
These are a great smart-casual option.
I have a feeling you'd rely on this dress all summer.
I'm looking to switch my neutrals up with classic blues this summer.
2. H&M
These look so comfy.
As it's part of H&M's premium selection, this dress will surely last you a long time.
This is perfect for summer.
Does it get more classic?
These were best sellers last year.
I can't believe how expensive this affordable blazer looks.
Cropped shirts work really well with high waisted trousers and jeans.
These popular trousers seem to have quite regular restocks.
I love this classic nautical stripe, especially if you're spending time by the British seaside this summer.
Such an easy dress to throw on for work, drinks or on holiday.
3. & Other Stories
This is such a pretty dress for summer events. I tried it recently and would recommend sizing up.
A light but smart summer jacket.
I just invested in these because I'm sure they'll sell out shortly.
An easy, pull-on style that looks really chic.
These are on my summer wish list.
Such a pretty summer top.
A classic summer LBD.
What a set!
An easy shirt you can wear with the shorts above, jeans, trousers and over swimwear.
Dress it up or down, the choice is yours.
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