23 Linen Dresses to Keep You Effortlessly Cool (and On-Trend) All Summer Long

Name: The Drop Fiona Dress
Brand: The Drop
Price: 42 USD

It's the one fabric we want to live in

Author image: Courtney Campbell bio: A photo of a woman with curly blond hair

By Courtney Campbell

•

Published Mar 16, 2024

Additional reporting by

Brittany Gibson

Nathalie Feingold

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Best Linen Dresses for Women 2024: Three women in black, tan, beige linen dresses outdoors

Brunnaco/Garnet Hill/Tuckernuck

Everyone just seems to be in a brighter mood come summertime. The only downside to the season is that it often comes with sweltering temperatures that could have you go from looking cute to looking like you just ran a marathon. (Glowy skin is in. Sweaty skin? Not so much.) Fortunately, a stylish solution to that dilemma comes in the form of the miracle material known as linen.

From linen pants to linen sheets, the fabric is heralded as the go-to for hot weather due to its unmatched breathability, durability, absorbency and sustainability. So, why not add some linen dresses to your lineup this season? We've done the work for you and rounded up some of the most sophisticated (and top-rated) linen dresses for women that are guaranteed to keep you looking and feeling cool this season, no matter the heat index.

The Best Linen Dresses for Women at a Glance

Best Value Linen Dress

Quince Button-Front Dress

$50 at Quince

Best Linen Mini Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Mini Dress

~~$80~~; $56 at abercrombie & fitch

Best Linen Maxi Dress

Jenni Kayne Margot Dress

$355 at Jenni Kayne

Best Linen Slip Dress

Splendid Breeze Dress

$188 at Splendid

Best Linen Tank Dress

Amazhiyu High-Low Dress

from $40 at amazon

How We Chose the Best Linen Dresses

To pick out these easy, breezy dresses, we looked at popular retailers that we have shopped at in the past to find top-rated linen or linen-blend pieces. Some are tried and true staples from the brands while others are new favorites for the season. We were also sure to include linen dresses available in a variety of price points, styles and sizes, so you're bound to find something you love from the 23 best linen dresses below.

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Quince

Best Value Linen Dress

1. Quince Button-Front Dress

Quince

If you're looking for a dress that effortlessly combines comfort and style, the Quince button-front dress is a top-tier pick. This frock is made from high-quality linen, which not only feels great but also keeps you cool when the weather is anything but that. The relaxed fit, tie belt and button-front design also make it plenty versatile and suitable for a ton of occasions. Not to mention, its timeless silhouette will give you something to wear for years (and years) to come. Oh, and it has pockets!

Fast Facts

Size Range: XS to XL

$50 at Quince

Woman wearing floral puffed sleeved dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

Best Linen Mini Dress

2. Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Mini Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

This Abercrombie & Fitch puff-sleeve mini dress boasts a lightweight linen-blend fabric and a flirty silhouette that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It features a flattering ruched bodice that creates a lovely shape, plus it has pockets. The best part about this dress, however, might be that it's available in petite, regular and tall sizing so it won't be too mini on taller frames (or too long on shorter ones). "The fit is great, and the quality of fabric is not too thin or thick," writes one buyer.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to XXL (petite, regular and tall)

~~$80~~; $56 at abercrombie & fitch

Jenni Kayne

Best Linen Maxi Dress

3. Jenni Kayne Margot Dress

Jenni Kayne

This breezy number is an absolutely stunning piece that is perfect for beach days, picnics or dressy garden parties. Made from high-quality linen, the minimalist maxi is both breathable and durable, while the subtle striped pattern can even help elongate your figure. "The pictures don’t do this dress justice," says one review. "The fabric is stunning. The fit is lovely too. Looking forward to living in this beautiful piece of clothing all summer long." We can see why.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XS to XXL

$355 at Jenni Kayne

Splendid

Best Linen Slip Dress

4. Splendid Breeze Dress

Splendid

This chic slip dress is made from a soft blend of rayon and linen, making it the perfect warm-weather pick to take you from a day at the beach to a fancy brunch with ease. It touts a flowy, relaxed shape, plus an adjustable tie back that lets you customize the fit of the straps. Layer it with a cute cropped denim jacket and a pair of platform sandals, and you’ve got the perfect summertime getup. "This dress is beautiful. The fabric is not too sheer, is soft and comfortable, and it has a flattering shape. It is very pretty. I love the color. I was thinking the neckline wouldn't be my favorite, but it looks great," raves one reviewer.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XS to XL

$188 at Splendid

~~$188~~; $40 at nordstrom rack

Amazon

Best Linen Tank Dress

5. Amazhiyu High-Low Dress

Amazhiyu

For days when you want to look cute without the effort, allow us to introduce you to the very versatile Amazhiyu tank dress with a cool high-low hemline. Throw this baby on and enjoy instant, easy-breezy summertime vibes, which entails allll the flowiness and functional pockets. Plus, you can grab it in several different colors without breaking the bank. "I loved this dress," praises on review. "I bought it to walk around Orlando during spring break. I stayed cool and comfortable all day. Bonus: It machine washes AND dries very well." Say no more!

Fast Facts

Size Range: XS to 3XL

from $40 at amazon

Best Linen Dresses: White Tiered Linen Dress

Eberjey

Best Tiered Linen Dress

6. Eberjey Kesia Dress

Eberjey

This Eberjey Kesia linen dress is so light and billowy, you might even want to wear it as a nightgown on sweltering summer evenings. The flowy tiered skirt adds plenty of dimension, and it includes pretty ruffled details to boot. Not to mention, styling is super easy, whether that involves opting for a denim jacket and ankle boots for a Western vibe or a blazer and high heels to look more dressed-up. As one reviewer puts it: “Chic meets bohemian. Love this dress for every occasion!”

Fast Facts

Size Range: S to L

~~$288;~~ $202 at Eberjay

$288 at anthropologie

Best Linen Dresses: Black Button-Up Shirtdress

Verishop

Best Linen Dress For Work

7. Brunnaco Arya Safari Dress

Brunnaco

Shirtdresses are made for summertime, and linen shirtdresses make this classic silhouette even more appropriate for those hot summer days filled with back-to-back meetings. Hand-sewn by local artisans in Bali, this 100 percent linen number also includes a fabric belt which adds some cinch to the waist for a flattering, yet office-appropriate look.

Fast Facts

Size Range: S to L

$150 at verishop

Farm Rio

Best Linen Dress for Vacation

8. Farm Rio Red Palermo Sleeveless Midi Dress

Farm Rio

Gorgeous, gorgeous girls wear gorgeous, gorgeous dresses…which is where this vibrant Farm Rio linen number comes in. With a bold tropical pattern, square neckline, fun beaded straps and open back with ruched detailing, this maximalist maxi does not lack in style or comfort. Your future self will thank you for all the stunning vacation photos you'll be taking in this beaut.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to XL

$265 at Farm Rio

Best Linen Dresses: Green Mini Shirtdress

Everlane

Best Linen Shirtdress

9. Everlane The Linen Shirtdress

Everlane

Everyone needs at least one borrowed-from-the-boys shirtdress in their collection (we don’t make the rules), and this Everlane pick ticks that box—plus several others. Its sustainable, simple design (crafted from European flax linen) makes it ultra-versatile for any kind of styling and it harnesses the impressive ability to become an instant wardrobe staple. "[It] fits great, [is] easy to wear, looks smart and polished with minimal effort. My favorite style!” writes one reviewer.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to XL

~~$98~~; $78 at Everlane

Madewell

Best Square-Neck Linen Dress

10. Madewell Square-Neck Mini Dress

Madewell

Love the look of a sophisticated square neckline? Same, which is why we've got our eye on this 100 percent linen mini from Madewell. The looser short sleeves serve as a contrast to this mostly structured style, which boasts a fitted silhouette, textured bodice and, yes, super flattering square neck, along with a shirred cutout detail at the back. Whether you don it on a date or out to brunch with the ladies, it's sure to cut a fabulous figure while keeping you from overheating.

Fast Facts

Size Range: 00 to 16 (standard and plus)

$110 at Madewell

Tuckernuck

Best Linen Tunic Dress

11. Tuckernuck Champagne Collier Dress

Tuckernuck

With its white contrast trim and luxe mother-of-pearl buttons, this linen tunic dress screams elegance...and was practically made for a chic European vacation. No, really—the design is inspired by the rolling vineyards of Provence, France. No wonder they call the color “Champagne,” since “khaki” or “beige” just wouldn’t do it justice.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XSS to XXXL

$198 at Tuckernuck

Banana Republic

Best Cutout Linen Dress

12. Banana Republic Lisa Linen Dress

Banana Republic

This sleek and sexy halter dress totally looks like a high-end designer piece—without the hefty price tag. Everything from its backless design to its twist-front bodice and side cutouts make this number (and you, by extension) stand out in a crowd. The best part is its versatility, which allows you to throw on some sandals or slip on a pair of heels depending on where the day (or night) will lead you. Besides, of course, the skin-baring cutouts and back, the frock is fully lined and fitted through the chest and waist, extending down into a flowy skirt.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to XL (regular and petite sizes)

$220 at Banana Republic

Woman wearing coral maxi dress with square neck and sleeves

Loft

Best Empire Waist Linen Dress

13. Loft Puff-Sleeve Dress

Loft

Channel your inner Bridgerton babe in this romantic empire-waist number, made with a breathable blend of linen and viscose. It showcases a stylish ruched square neckline and princess-worthy puff sleeves that feel dressy enough for a summer wedding or garden soiree. It gets bonus points for being friendly to larger busts. As one 5-star reviewer writes, "If you’re at all top heavy, the top is super flattering while minimizing the look of extra weight in [the] thighs." But that's not all—it's also on sale. Scores across the board.

Fast Facts

Size Range: 00 to 20/22 (regular and petite)

~~$100;~~ $49 at Loft

Amazon

Best Linen Wrap Dress

14. Amazhiyu Linen Dress

Amazhiyu

A comfortable wrap dress is always the right answer—and this Amazon gem is no exception. Designed with adjustable spaghetti straps, a self-tie closure and V-neckline, the frock is beloved by reviewers for its quality, comfort *and* pockets. In other words, you’ll probably (read: definitely) be reaching for this little number time and time again (and not just because of its affordable price tag).

Fast Facts

Size Range: S to XXL

$44 at amazon

J.Crew

Best Linen Beach Dress

15. J.Crew Cross-Back Beach Dress

J.Crew

This airy maxi, decked out in delicate nautical stripes, was literally made for a vacation. It’s made from a lightweight blend of linen and cotton, with a cross-back design and high front slit for even more breathability on hot, sunny days. Pair with some gold accessories for dinner on the pier or just throw it on over your bikini for a barefoot stroll on the beach. And don't worry if it gets brushed with sand—it's also conveniently machine-washable.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to 3X

~~$118;~~ $85 at J.Crew

Ralph Lauren

Best Tie-Waist Linen Dress

16. Ralph Lauren Tie-Front Linen Shirtdress

Ralph Lauren

Aside from its charming lavender hue (which happens to be very trendy this year), this light and flowy Ralph Lauren shirtdress comes adorned with a ladylike tie-front detail, which you can adjust to your liking for a cinched silhouette. We also like its elbow-length sleeves with buttoned barrel cuffs and its midi-length hem that’s suitable for work, date night and everything in between. Just take this Bloomingdale's shopper's word for it: "This dress is so elegant. The fabric is a [mid]-weight linen, not at all flimsy or sheer."

Fast Facts

Size Range: 00 to 28

$185 at Ralph Lauren

$185 at bloomingdale's

Garnet Hill

Best Minimalist Linen Dress

17. Garnet Hill Easy Slip Dress

Garnet Hill

Whether you slip it into your daytime or nighttime wardrobe rotation, this streamlined slip is worth showing off—and often. The bias-cut number is made with high-quality European flax linen and boasts adjustable straps, a subtle V-neckline, and an impressive amount of 5-star ratings from (very stylish) people who can’t stop talking about how fab it is. Here's one that's quite promising: “I bought this dress in two colors, and I'm glad I did. This will be my go-to dress on hot summer days. The fit is perfect, and the weight of the linen is just right.”

Fast Facts

Size Range: 0 to 18

From ~~$129~~; $79 at Garnet Hill

Asos

Best Linen Dress with Bow Detail

18. ASOS Design Double Bow Dress

Asos Design

This unique midi lands at the intersection of elegant and flirtatious, with a double bow detail at the waist, high back slit and flattering V-neckline. In other words, it's the perfect choice for a variety of occasions. Plus, it’s affordably priced, making it an accessible frock for a wide range of budgets. Just note that some reviewers say the top and shoulders seem to run larger than the bottom half, but that shouldn't be an issue if you're more filled out up top.

Fast Facts

Size Range: 0 to 14

~~$65~~; $33 at Asos

Gap

Best Linen-Cotton Blend Dress

19. Gap Puff Sleeve Shirtdress

Gap

Feeling indecisive? You’ve come to the right place. This Gap linen/cotton-blend midi dress touts fun puff sleeves coupled with a tailored shirtdress look, giving you the best of both worlds in more ways than one. It even has a tie belt you can add or remove as you please to switch up the vibe. Plus, buyers say it's so comfortable and breathable, it'll be hard to wear anything else this summer.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to XXL (regular, tall and petite)

~~$70~~; $34 at Gap

linen dresses for women the drop hot pink puff sleeve mini

Amazon

Best Flirty Linen Dress

20. The Drop Nala Dress

The Drop

This twist-front linen midi dress from The Drop is a must-have for anyone looking for a flirty summer dress to wear for daytime picnic dates or al fresco brunch cocktails. The ruched detailing on the bodice adds a unique touch to the classic linen fabric, while the puff sleeves and flouncy skirt give it a touch of whimsy. The best part? The pockets are functional, which is a super convenient addition practically guaranteed to make you love this frock even more.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to 5X

From ~~$70~~; $48 at amazon

linen dresses for women tan tank wrap with white stripes knee length

Amazon

Best Linen Cocktail Dress

21. DKNY Surplice Dress

DKNY

This sleek and stylish linen/viscose dress features a midi-length skirt, tie waist and surplice neckline that’s suitable for a variety of occasions, especially those requiring more cocktail-esque attire. Pleating at the shoulder gives the piece even more dimension, while the look of its alternating pinstripes adds to its overall classy aesthetic.

Fast Facts

Size Range: 6 to 16

from $61 at amazon

Reformation

Best Off-the-Shoulder Linen Dress

22. Reformation Bridgton Dress

Reformation

Think linen can't be sultry and slinky? This 100 percent linen frock will have you thinking otherwise. With its fitted bodice, high side slit and oh-so-casual off-the-shoulder sleeves, it hits just the right balance of sexy and elegant. A smocked back and zipper closure, meanwhile, ensure you get the best, most comfortable fit. The most alluring part, perhaps? Like all Reformation pieces, it's responsibly made. What's not to love?

Fast Facts

Size Range: 0 to 12

$248 at Reformation

linen dresses for women the drop white long sleeve maxi shirt dress

Amazon

Most Versatile Linen Dress

23. The Drop Fiona Dress

The Drop

This long linen shirtdress is super versatile and can truly be anything you want it to be. Grab a statement belt and wrap it around your waist for a chic look, wear it layered under a long cardigan for a cozy look or wear it on its own for a simple-yet-stylish work look. The beauty of this linen frock is that it’ll look fab no matter how you style it. According to reviews, it has a nice weight to it, but still feels incredibly cool on hot days. "The material isn’t see through and it washes well...it’s great for hot summer days even with sleeves," raves one happy buyer.

Fast Facts

Size Range: XXS to 5X

~~$70;~~ $42 at amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Look Good in a Linen Dress?

Once you find a dress that's flattering for your figure, that's pretty much all you need to look good in a linen dress. The material is light but can be fashioned into a ton of styles, as seen above. The beauty of a linen dress is that you can just toss it on and be good to go. However, you can still opt to style one with chunky jewelry and heels to dress it up, or keep things low-key with a pair of simple sandals. For more flowy linen numbers, consider cinching it at the waist with a statement belt to add both pizazz and figure-flattering shape.

What Should You Wear Under a Linen Dress?

Linen can be a thinner material, so if you're wearing a lighter color that isn't lined, you might want to wear something under it to ensure nothing is seen through. The best solution is to wear a slip, half-slip or slip shorts, or you can try less noticeable nude undergarments.

Courtney Campbell

Freelance Writer

Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.

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Brittany Gibson

Freelance Writer

Brittany Gibson is a NYC- and CT-based freelance writer with a background in SEO. She has bylines in BuzzFeed, Insider, Real Simple, Reader’s Digest and more. When she’s not writing about products, you’ll likely find her trying out new coffee shops, hanging with her Maltipoo, Mochi, listening to Taylor Swift or scouring the internet for new petite fashion finds to fill her already-crowded closet with. Follow her on Instagram @brigibson. She has been writing for PureWow for half a year.

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