Finding the fine line in summer between looking good whilst keeping cool is a tricky one. Few things make getting ready more frustrating than when you’re hot and bothered and nothing you own is quite hitting the mark.
As temperatures rise, the key to nailing it is opting for lightweight, breathable fabrics to offer some form of relief and the one staple for any summer wardrobe is linen. Whether you opt for 100% linen, or a linen-blend (usually with viscose or cotton), it offers somewhat of a relief whilst still looking effortlessly stylish.
Whilst linen dominates the majority of my summer wardrobe in the form of shirts, trousers and skirts, one piece I cannot live without is a linen dress. Quite frankly, it's one of the chicest and easiest-to-wear pieces in my wardrobe, and as soon as you get past the creasing (trust me, no matter what you do you do, it will happen), I'm certain you won’t want to be without one either. The most stylish people I know (and follow on Instagram) agree, with plenty of influencers bringing out their linen dress of choice year after year for holidays or city heatwaves.
Linen has, of course, been around for years, but like anything in fashion has evolved over time. From shirt dresses to mini’s, whatever it is you’re looking for, I can guarantee you can find a linen iteration of it for any occasion. Whilst linen dresses are a minimalist's dream, it’s no longer reserved for its soft, desert hues, and is available in dopamine-inducing colourways too. But once you've found your perfect linen dress, how do you style it? That's where I come in.
Keep scrolling to see five chic linen dress outfits you can rely on in summer.
Linen Dress Outfits to Rely On This Summer:
1. Short-Sleeved Linen Dress + Leather Accessories
Style Notes: Linen as a whole can feel quite casual when wearing it, however it doesn’t have to be. Opting for a more structured, fitted style styled with leather heeled sandals and a chic bag instantly elevates it to evening appropriate.
Shop the Look:
Reformation is my go-to for chic, summer dresses that I bring out year after year.
Toteme nails is every time when it comes to sophisticated minimalist styles.
This bag has quickly climbed the ranks to become a fashion favourite.
A statement necklace will bring an added interest to the simpleness of a linen dress.
2. Mini Linen Dress + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: A mini linen dress is a must-have for a summer wardrobe. Every holiday I go on, this is the first thing that's packed into my suitcase. Strappy sandals go hand-in-hand with it to ensure it's the perfect outfit formula for ultra-hot days.
Shop the Look:
The decorative front buttons make this simple shift dress feel even more elevated.
Strappy sandals are so sleek and I love the silver embellished detailing on this Loeffler Randall pair.
It's no surprise this Loewe basket bag is a cult summer buy.
A cat-eye sunglass is a timeless classic shape.
3. Strapless Linen Dress + Tan Accessories
Style Notes: There’s nothing quite like the combo of a beige linen dress paired with tan accessories. It's an effortlessly cool put together look and gives a flawless, sophisticated finish. A strapless linen dress will be one of your most reached-for pieces in the height of the summer months and can easily be worn from day to night.
Shop the Look:
I have a few Massimo Dutti dresses and their quality for the price is absolutely unmatched.
Tan sandals are such a versatile style that can be paired with so many different outfits.
This Dragon Diffusion bag will look so chic paired with a linen dress for an effortlessly cool summer look.
Tortoiseshell is having a comeback right now and this Linda Farrow oval pair are so stylish.
4. Statement Linen Dress + Raffia Accessories
Style Notes: Allow your dress to do all the talking by opting for a statement piece. Whether it’s a bold neckline or bright hue, linen doesn’t have to be a simple style. Finish off your look by pairing it with a straw bag and hat.
Shop the Look:
Farm Rio is home to countless statement dresses, including this linen-blend floral frock.
Mint Velvet have nailed it with these sandals.
This DeMellier bag is at the top of my wishlist.
Jacquemus are experts in accessories at this point.
5. Maxi Linen Dress + Flip Flops
Style Notes: Whether you’re running errands or off to lunch with your friends, a maxi dress is the ultimate go-to. It’s long, loose fit and lightweight fabric will ensure comfort no matter the occasion. Flip flops are a go-to for an effortlessly chic finish.
Shop the Look:
Dôen never fails to make a gorgeous dress.
Don't mistake simple for boring, these flip flops will quickly become a core wardrobe staple.
I love the contrasting cord with gold metal pendant.
If I could go to one brand for summer accessories it would be Celine every time.
Shop Other Linen Dresses I Love:
Polka-dot dresses are seriously on-trend at the moment,
This khaki hue will pair well with so many different colours.
Every wardrobe needs an LBD.
Such a pretty shade of peach.
This cult favourite now comes in a linen iteration.
Easy and breezy.
I love this muted burgundy shade.
This looks way more expensive than its £55 price tag.
This went straight into my basket.
How cute is this?
A dress you can wear from now and well into the autumn season.
Perfect for holidays.
Such a fab, easy-to-wear mini!
I really love this timeless white midi from Whistles.
Perfect for work and the weekends.
Stunning!
Dress it up or down, the choice is yours.
