The summer heat is no match for these breathable linen pieces for women.
Summer is underway, which means so is the sweltering summer heat. Adjusting your wardrobe for warmer days ahead is essential to staying comfortable, but that doesn't mean you need to be rocking athletic gear all summer long. Instead, adding lightweight linen pieces to your wardrobe is key to beating the heat without sacrificing style.
So, what exactly is linen, and why does it keep you cooler than other fabrics? Linen is a natural fiber that is made from the flax plant. Cellulose fibers from the flax plant are harvested, then processed into the beachy, elegant fabric we know as linen. The natural fibers allow air to circulate better than synthetic textiles such as polyester, resulting in a more breathable fabric that keeps you cool and comfortable. Linen is also stronger and stiffer than fellow natural fabric cotton, giving linen its signature slightly rumpled appearance.
Not only is linen more cooling than its synthetic counterparts, but it also lasts longer and puts less strain on the environment. Given its durability and breathability, linen is naturally more expensive than synthetic fabrics, but that doesn't mean investing in these pieces should cost an arm and a leg.
Below, we've rounded up the best affordable linen clothing for women, from elegant trousers and button-ups to playful dresses and rompers.
Affordable Linen Essentials for Women
Everlane The Linen Workwear Dress
Side pockets and patch pockets means this dress can keep all of your essentials on hand.
Abercrombie and Fitch Linen-Blend Foldover Set Top
This vacation-ready piece looks just as adorable paired with Abercrombie's linen pants as it does with your favorite jeans or skirt.
Old Navy High-Waisted Linen-Blend Utility Shorts for Women
Old Navy has an incredibly underrated selection of linen wardrobe staples, including these 3.5-inch shorts.
Dynamite Clothing Linen V-Neck Flare Mini Dress
Mini dresses are a must for the warmer season, and this linen-blend option is features a strappy back detail.
Urban Renewal Made In LA Eco Linen Tie-Back Tank Top
The perfect going-out top for summer is made from ultra-lightweight European flax linen — also available in black.
Urban Renewal Made In LA Eco Linen Maxi Skirt
Low-waisted maxi skirts are absolutely everywhere this season, and this simple style features a delicate bow at the waist.
Reformation Christen Linen Dress
This simply elegant A-line dress is easy to dress up with heels or down with sneakers.
Quince 100% European Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit
Made of 100% European linen, this jumpsuit has adjustable shoulder straps and a tie waist for the perfect fit.
Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant in 100% Linen
These butter yellow pants are equal parts elegant and cheerful. Make it a matching set with a chic cropped vest in 100% linen.
Banana Republic Costa Linen-Blend Tank
This linen-blend tank is well worth the investment for its ability to pair with virtually anything in your wardrobe.
J. Crew Linen-Blend Drawstring Short
"LOVE these comfortable shorts!" raved one happy reviewer. "They are light and airy, making them perfect for the hot summer days...but also feel as comfy as your favorite pj shots, making them perfect for work from home days!"
The Drop Women's Nala Twist Front Linen Mini Dress
This 100% linen dress is available in four fun colors, including this hot pink that'll help you bring out your inner Barbie doll.
Banana Republic Long and Lean Linen-Blend Blazer
Whether you wear it with matching trousers or use it to add polish to a sundress, this linen blazer is an essential piece of summer outerwear.