Jessica wears a white linen dress from Posse.
For some reason, linen has never really been a fabric that I've warmed to. I think it's due to my reluctance to buy clothing that is so obviously restricted to the summer months which, in UK terms, usually means a period of about eight weeks. I'd much rather buy something I can justifiably wear all year round. Historically, I have also never been someone who feels comfortable in that "bohemian beach-dweller" vibe that so often dominates summer collections.
But this season, due to the glorious weather ahead, I have conceded that actually linen might be just what I need right now, and the more I browsed 2023's offering, the more I found my attitude changing. Far from the free-flowing frocks that previously defined the trend, now linen comes in a wider range of styles, including short sets and clean-lined tailored trousers (though we're still huge fans of the linen dress).
Comfy, cool and undeniably chic, linen is setting itself up to be the fabric of the summer, and when a timeless style is having a moment in the spotlight we're always on board, as we know these pieces will keep working hard for many years to come. So, if like me, you're new to the lures of linen, I recommend scrolling down and checking out the cool-girl stylings of Chrissy Ford, Marianne of Smyth Sisters, Rachael Clifton, Oluwaseun, and Monikh Dale. You never know—you might just become a convert.
1. Shirt + Shorts + Printed Tee + Trainers
Style Notes: Short sets are a hot ticket item this season, particularly in linen, as it’ll help keep you cool even on the hottest summer days.
SHOP THE LOOK:
I adore the colour and cut of this shirt.
This printed tee is high up on my wish list.
On a hot summer's day, you won't find a more comfortable option than these shorts.
You can never go wrong with a pair of Veja trainers.
2. Wide-Leg Linen Trousers + Linen Shirt + Trainers
Style Notes: Breezy and chic, it’s easy to understand the appeal of linen trousers. Make like Marianne and pair yours with a linen shirt and white trainers for a simple warm-weather outfit solution.
SHOP THE LOOK
The perfect white shirt.
Arket has some of the best trousers of the summer season.
Don't overlook belts when building your summer looks.
New Balance trainers aren't just trendy, they're also incredibly comfy to walk in.
3. Short-Sleeve Linen Shirt + Bikini + Sunnnies
Style Notes: Why save your best linen buys for the city? Use a bright or printed linen shirt as a stylish beach cover-up.
SHOP THE LOOK
Such a pretty colour scheme.
White swimwear always looks so elevated.
See what I mean?
What would your beach outfit be without a pair of statement sunnies?
4. Linen Midi Dress + Basket Bag + Mary Janes
Style Notes: If you want to achieve the linen look with minimal effort—or take it to one of the weddings in your calendar—opt for a breezy midi dress in the natural fabric. We'll be carrying basket bags with our linen frocks this season.
SHOP THE LOOK
I love the fit of this dress.
This bag is so special I'd want to put it on display when I'm not using it.
Our editors really rate & Other Stories jewellery.
These will work just as well for weddings as they will for drinks out.
5. Linen Blouse + Colour Pop Midi Skirt
Style Notes: Chances are you already have a white linen shirt in your wardrobe. Give it a new lease of life with the addition of a bold skirt, just as Monikh has done here.
SHOP THE LOOK
A no-brainer investment.
A beautiful addition to any outfit.
The colour of this skirt is nothing short of stunning.
These sandals look so expensive.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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