I Searched for Chic, Non-See-Through White Linen Trousers—These 3 Pairs Came Out on Top

As someone who wears trousers more than dresses, summer can be a particularly tricky time. Whilst there are cooler moments when our trusted denim and favourite tailoring can support (this is the UK, after all), the hottest days call for a significant change. Over the past few years, I’ve found myself relying more and more on linen as a respite when it's hot and I still want to wear trousers. One style in particular features the most in my outfit builds and Saved-folder inspo: white linen trousers. So, with warm-weather dressing on the horizon, I set out to find the best white linen trousers for summer 2025.

Linen trousers come in an array of shades, but the bright summer days lend themselves to fresh, crisp whites. On my search for the best white linen trousers, I explored a range of different styles. The first I looked for was a pair of classic tailored trousers with a linen twist, to bring the polished feel of tailoring into the summer months with sharp pleats and (ideally) a great drape on the hem, in the lightweight fabric. If you're wondering how to look smart whilst staying cool at the office this summer, this is a style I'd recommend.

I also wanted to find some tie-waist linen trousers. Comfortable, adjustable and available in a variety of slim and wide-leg silhouettes, these have a more relaxed feel that lends itself to weekend outings. Not to mention, the ease of a drawstring or elasticated waist is so appealing. This style is primed for pulling on over swimwear or pairing with a simple T-shirt or tank top.

Not only have I scoured the internet for the best white linen trousers around, but I also hit the shops to put three specific pairs to the test. The first I've rated for years: the Olina Linen Pant from Reformation. They're the priciest of the three, but you can really feel the difference in the high-quality fabric.

Next, the Sloane pants from Abercrombie & Fitch are a best-selling style for the brand and a favourite amongst our editors. On noticing that these trousers came in a linen version, I knew I had to see if they lived up to the high standards of the original. Finally, I found myself in Zara on my lunch break (this happens often), and came across a pair of sleek white tailored linen trousers that had an elegant look and a pleasing price tag.

One thing that makes hunting for white linen trousers more difficult is that some can be pretty see-through, so I made sure that my three chosen pairs show nothing when accompanied by nude underwear.

Keep scrolling to read my review on the three best white linen trousers I've tried, and shop more excellent white linen trousers.

1. Reformation Olina Linen Pant

Style Notes: Last year was the first time I put Reformation's beloved Olina linen trousers to the test, and I was immediately impressed. The fabric is 100% linen, the drape is just right and the tie waistband adds a comfortable ease when wearing. Here, I tried my regular size medium in the regular length, which fit perfectly. Like most of Reformation's best buys, they also come in extended sizes and petite lengths.

Shop Reformation's Olina Linen Pant:

2. Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Trousers

Style Notes: Abercrombie's Sloane Pants have become an editor favourite in our offices thanks to their polished appeal and reasonable price tag. Now, the popular style comes in a linen version for summer. What I liked about this pair is the double lining, which ensures that your underwear won't show through. However, this means that this pair is more heavyweight than the others and made from a linen and viscose blend, rather than 100% linen. Here, I tried my usual size, which sat nicely for a lower-rise fit just below the belly button. If you wanted a higher-waisted style, I'd recommend sizing down. This pair also comes in Abercrombie's Curve Love fit.

Shop Abercrombie's Sloane Pants:

3. Zara Linen Blend Trousers

Style Notes: If you've had a peek at Zara's new-in edit right now, you'll know it's one of the strongest to date, so I set about putting its linen trousers to the test. As a brand that can make even the most affordable pieces look incredibly expensive, this tailored pair immediately caught my eye. They're the least opaque of the three, but you'd still never guess I was wearing black underwear here, so a nude pair will definitely be discreet.

I tried a medium and found they fit as a nice mid-rise waist, but if you wanted a higher rise, there's room to size down. Unlike the other pairs I tried, Zara doesn't offer petite trousers, and at 5'2", this pair came up incredibly long on me. That being said, a quick trip to a local dry cleaner can have a few inches taken off with ease.

Shop Zara's Linen Blend Trousers:

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