Delivering both breathable comfort and put-together polish, no garment is better suited for enjoying the sun.
The closest thing to summering in Europe, aside from booking an actual flight? Draping yourself in breezy lightweight loungewear. Linen shirts for women are key to achieving this calm-meets-chic aesthetic.
Just like fisherman sandals and crochet tops, finding the right pick makes getting dressed in the summertime a true breeze. So, we’re here to help.
How to wear women’s linen shirts now
Staying cool in humid weather while still looking pulled together is a challenge, which is why linen shirts are a go-to. Longer-length tunics are perfect beach cover-ups, while V-neck button-downs make for the ideal layer on a cool summer evening. When paired with matching separates, they’re an effortless entrance into the Coastal Grandmother alter ego.
And while white might be the classic linen colour, the summery fabric thrives in countless modernized iterations. Opting for an electric blue hue adds vacation-wear whimsy, while a chunky colour-block pattern offers contemporary coolness. Don’t be phased by the slight wrinkle-prone quality that linen shirts have; it’s only the marker of a beloved au naturel fabric.
Our fave linen shirts for women 2024
Best overall
Amazhiyu linen blouse
Often the best things in life are the simplest, and that statement proves true yet again with this top. Made of 100 percent linen, it’s a gem for uniform dressing, with three-quarter-length levees and a loose but well-structured design. Featuring an ultra-durable fit, it promises to absorb moisture and help support the natural circulation of air for breezy wear in the summertime.
Pros
- One of the best linen shirts to wear in multiple seasons
- Eight colours
- Easy pull-on styling
- Moisture-absorbing material
Con
- While machine-wash is possible, it’s encouraged to hand wash to conserve the quality
Best budget
Chigant womens cotton linen tank
Made of a cotton-linen blend, it promises softness with every wear. The comfy slip-on design makes for grab-and-go styling, while the V-neck detailing accentuates your décolletage. With a flowy silhouette, it cascades out without clinging uncomfortably to your body, making for no-fuss wear.
Pros
- Available in 23 colours/styles
- Machine washable
- Comfortable linen blend that is perfect for humid weather
Cons
- Some reviewers note that it felt stiff at first, so give it a few wears to soften up
Best luxury
Vitamin A Playa linen boyfriend shirt
Sure, linen shirts for women may be associated with crisp white seperates and breezy pastels, but that doesn’t mean you get have fun with prints. This Vitamin A piece freshens up the linen category via a vibrant colour-blocking pattern.
Pros
- Elegant oversized fit
- Colourful design that pairs well with neutral separates
- Roomier style that is ideal for layering
Cons
- Hand-wash only
Best sleeveless
Free People James linen top
This sleeveless (and backless!) top is timeless, sleek and playful as can be. With a slim-fitting silhouette and subtle peplum flare, it’s a smart pick for facing any heatwave head-on. Hitting just above the belly button, it’s perfect when paired with mid-rise jeans for a subtle skin-baring look.
Pros
- Available in five colours
- Suitable for machine wash
- Reviewers love that extra padding design means it can be worn without a bra
Cons
- Because this top is designed to be a standalone statement, it has less versatility than other options
Best long-sleeve
Uniqlo premium linen long-sleeve
Made of 100 percent European linen, this basic design by Uniqlo will always be a winner. Whether you wear it alone or as a layering piece to brush off the evening chill, it’s a reliable staple that delivers comfort and elegance.
Featuring a sharp collar, a button-down design and long sleeves that can be effortlessly rolled up, this slightly-oversized piece strikes a balance between elevated and easy-going.
Pros
- Nine colours
- Suitable for machine-wash
- Business casual silhouette
- Loose and comfortable fit with elegant finish
Cons
- Stiff until the first wash
Best organic
Eileen Fisher organic linen vest
Meet your new spring-summer essential. Eileen Fisher’s linen vest is a layering must-have, with a wide hem design that delivers breathability in warmer temps. The true focal point is at the back, where the subtle tie-up detail draws in the eyes and adds a slight cinch.
Pros
- Size inclusive up to a 3X makes wearing linen within reach
- Suitable for machine wash
- Available in two colours
Cons
- Pricier than other options
Best plus-size
Only Curve linen blend
This bright blue hue screams beach-side vacation. With a loungewear-meets-street-style design from Danish brand Only Curve, the size-inclusive button-up brings a Scandi cool girl effect to the relaxing associations of the classic linen chemise.
Made of a linen mix fabric, it’s lightweight without feeling sheer.
Pros
- Size-inclusive options up to a 2X
- Suitable for machine wash
- Relaxed fit with pockets
Cons
- Only one colour
Best tunic style
Unibelle linen button-down
If you love tunics, consider buying this ever-versatile linen shirt. Featuring a high-low design and a button-down front, the layering opportunities are endless with this breezy garment. Pair it with jean shorts and a tote for a laid-back ‘fit or throw it over a bathing suit for extra coverage during a day in the sun.
Made of a cotton-linen blend, its breathability keeps sweaty girl summer issues at bay.
Pros
- Available in 14 colours
- Suitable for machine-wash
- Breathable with just the right amount of stretch
Cons
- Some reviewers note that this runs large, so consider sizing down if you’re in between sizes
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