My very first linen piece was an Eileen Fisher dress that was on super clearance. It was just a basic, boxy shift dress with a microgrid pattern, but I could not get over how comfortable it was or how freaking good it looked even with a just-woke-up bun and basic slides. No matter how many times I washed it, crumpled it in the closet, wore it to the beach, 6 years later it still looks brand new. That dress kick started a linen obsession when I realized it was the secret to looking and feeling good in 90%, Florida humidity, and I’ve been building my summer capsule wardrobe around this magical fabric ever since.
discontinued Uniqlo pants
What Makes Linen So Magical?
Before we get into the favorites, let’s take a little refresher on why linen is the best.
1) It is highly absorbent. This sounds like the opposite of what you want on a humid day, but linen can absorb up to 20% of its own weight in water before you ever feel it.
2) It breathes. Linen has a beautiful ability to drape on your body without sticking to it and allowing airflow but still being opaque enough that you don’t have to worry about giving anyone a little show.
3) It’s low maintenance. Most “nicer” fabrics require finicky care. Linen is machine washable and rarely needs to be ironed (just the occasional collar if you want crisp structure).
4) It’s freaking strong. 100%, good quality linen can be a bit of a sticker shock, but they can be lifetime, quality pieces. One of my favorite linen shirts is a navy, Ralph Lauren button-down that was my mom’s when I was in elementary school!
Linen blends tend to be more affordable (but without the complete benefits) and are a low commitment way to test the waters. I’ve started adding “nicer” options like MagicLinen (they have the best modern-classic silhouettes and come in the most stunning colors!!) to my rotation and they have me falling in love with linen all over again! I’ve rounded up some of my favorite from both categories so we can shop together.
Men’s Bilbao Shirt, White & Sofia Wrap Dress, White
This white dress is a prime example of the difference between cheaper and higher end linen. Not to knock on the lower end stuff (I have plenty of that, like the yellow pants above), but good quality linen has a nice heftiness & tight weave that actually makes wearing white possible! I look at this photo of Michael & me and think, wow, we look so relaxed & refreshed. And then Michael reminds me it was a 90°+, breezeless day in St. Augustine and I laugh maniacally as I hold my new favorite dress tighter.
Favorite Linen Dresses
Sofia Wrap Dress
Uni Midi Dress
Evangeline Kimono Style Dress
Favorite Linen Shirts
Lace-Up Blouse
Beauchamp linen, Short-sleeve Popover
Basic Long Sleeve Button-Down
I love linen jumpsuits for easy workday to night transitions. Just pair some statement earrings with them and they’re ready to rock. I’m obsessed with this cream, collared jumpsuit from Who What Wear and bought 2 just so I can dye one for another option.
Favorite Linen Jumpsuits
Cream Utility Jumpsuit
Verona Jumpsuit
Ikat Floral Jumpsuit
Favorite Linen Pants
Sanctuary Wide-Legged Cropped Pants
Linen Culottes
Saratoga Blue Striped Pants
Favorite Linen Outerwear
Bone Structured Cotton Linen Blazer
Cinnamon Sagres Linen Blazer
Blush Shawl Collar Jacket
Honestly, this entire post could have just been a linen lookbook from my entire closet, but I was cutting it close with the number of poses I know. Do you have a linen love story? Please share so we can gush about it together 💕
White Elephant Gifts Under $25 for Every Gift Exchange 
Floating Frame Finds for a Unique Display 
Six Summer Sandals for Serious Travel + Comfort 
love all the products from magic linen. it looks really great for the summer.