Ahh, linen. Light, breathable and a must-have material when the boiling heat comes around. I practically live in my linen pants, linen shorts—I even sleep in linen sheets—so you already know the same goes for my tops, tanks and blouses, too. Google searches for linen have steadily increased over the past few months, hitting a peak this month, and I’m expecting that trend to continue climbing in the coming months. So, I took it upon myself to make it easy to get your hands on this hot commodity by scouring some PureWow reader’s favorite brands like Reformation (where I found the best overall pick that’s oversize-yet-tailored), Abercrombie & Fitch and Zara, just to name a few. Here, 21 of the chicest linen shirts for women that you’ll want to add to cart ASAP, whether you’re looking to stay cool or simply want a new staple.
21 of the Chicest Linen Shirts for Women That’ll Keep You Cool as Temps Rise
Lightweight and oh-so breezy
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How I Chose the Best Linen Shirts
When it comes to choosing quality linen, I consider and analyze several factors. Linen is best when at its true form, sourced from natural materials like flax. On this list, you’ll see a lot of muted, earthy tones and some pale yellows, an indication of great quality (though brands can utilize sustainable dyeing measures that give you more vibrant colors and patterns). And if you happen to notice these garments err on the pricier side of things, that’s an indication of some top-notch quality, as true linen is quite rare.
How to Style a Linen Shirt in 2024
No gimmicks or fancy-shmancy hacks here. Like a canvas, linen is meant to be worn in its natural state, which is easy and breezy. According to TikTok creator missy_elz, there are a myriad of ways you can zhoosh your linen blouse up, like opting for coordinating linen bottoms, tucking it in leather pants or wearing it with your favorite denim shorts. Taking inspiration from Karina Reske on TikTok, I even plan to pair a belted oversize linen top with bike shorts or style my linen shirts over swimsuits when I’m not wearing my beloved blue jeans.
How to Wash Linen Shirts
Great news: Washing linen doesn’t need to be complicated. Though some linen will need to be dry cleaned (which you can attempt at home if you dare) or hand-washed (here’s a step-by-step instructions to assist you), most linen can be washed on a cold cycle—delicate is best for maintaining the shape and quality—and either tumble dried on low or line dried. Just make sure to check your shirt’s tag for the brand’s specific wash instructions.
Below, you’ll find that I’ve included a range of linen and prices to accommodate every budget and style. For more information on how to assess linen for yourself, read on here.
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Best Overall
1. Reformation Will Oversized Linen Shirt
What I Like
- oversize, relaxed fit
- made with sustainable materials
What I Don’t Like
- pricey
Reformation
An oversize, crisp white button-down shirt is a must in any capsule wardrobe, and this linen stunner from Reformation is the moment. Not only is the linen lightweight and oh-so breezy, but it’s made from flax that, according to the sustainable brand, uses no water and emits a fraction of the carbon as cotton. It has a boxy fit and long, billowy sleeves that can be rolled up for a more lived-in look. Toppin off this classic button-down is the flat collar that relaxedly lays along the décolletage and a shirttail hem that fabulously drapes in the back.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colors: 5
Best Cap Sleeve
2. Ann Taylor Linen Blend Boatneck Tee
What I Like
- available in three fits (classic, petite and tall)
- relaxed fit won’t cling to your skin
What I Don’t Like
- fine fabric may be see-through
Ann Taylor
Don the color of the season in this beautiful boatneck T-shirt has ‘effortlessly chic’ written all over it. Comprised of a linen and viscose blend, you can expect this to feel softer than most linen shirts, which means less scratch and more enjoying how good you look while wearing it. Best of all, it boasts cap sleeves, so you can keep your shoulders covered but still relish a breeze every now and then without lifting your armpits for the world to see.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Colors: 2
Best Linen Set
3. Anrabess Sleeveless Crop Top Linen Set
What I Like
- comfortable, breathable material
- sophisticated cut is easy to style many ways
- purchase includes matching linen pants
What I Don’t Like
- material may shrink after washing
Anrabess
You can never have too many basic tanks, especially when they’re made of linen. This two-piece linen set from Amazon, which comes in 23 color options, has more than 2,000 five-star reviews and will have you looking like you stepped out of a European cafe. In fact, Amazon buyer Maria R. found that the chic blouse was the perfect blend of comfortable and breezy while on her trip. She says, “I bought it for a trip to Spain where the temperatures were over 100 degrees, and I wore [this] all the time because [it was] so light and airy and easy to dress with any outfit. My only complaints would be that I noticed…they do show sweat marks if you're sweating a lot (which walking 16,000 steps in 100 degrees meant a lot of lower back sweat for me).”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: S to XXL
- Colors: 23
Best Short-Sleeve
4. Quince 100% European Linen Short Sleeve Shirt
What I Like
- made from ethically woven linen
- hypoallergenic, durable and lightweight
- affordable
What I Don’t Like
- boxy fit may not flatter every shape
Quince
“As soon as I received this blouse, I did a quick wash and hung it to dry,” says one reviewer. “I was really pleased at how good it looked straight out of the dryer, didn't even really need to be pressed. Looks nice, I think it will get a lot of wear this summer.” Indeed you will, and that’s because this Quince shirt is made from 100 percent European flax, which is not only extremely cooling, but it’s purportedly “more sustainable and less resource-intensive to grow,” per the brand. Not to mention, it’s a great everyday T-shirt with a loose, boxy fit, making it a no-brainer for those who run hot and don’t want to deal with the worry of sweat stains under your armpits, on your back or under your boobs.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colors: 15
Best Linen-Blend
5. Abercrombie & Fitch Linen-Blend Set Top
What I Like
- pretty ladder trim embroidery
- adjustable straps
- affordable
What I Don’t Like
- sizing may be inconsistent
Abercrombie & Fitch
If you’re headed to a baby shower or looking for something to wear to brunch, I suggest you plan your outfit around this Abercrombie & Fitch top. It’s made from linen, viscose and cotton, so while it’s not 100 percent linen, it’s still breathable, forgiving and will keep you cool. I adore the loose-fitting silhouette, darling ladder trim embroidery throughout and the adjustable straps that will make it feel just right on your body. As for sizing, the reviews suggest the blouse has a naturally loose fit that may err slightly big, so I suggest referring to the size guide before purchasing.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Colors: 2
Best Pink Linen Shirt
6. Zara Linen Blend Printed Top
What I Like
- balloon sleeves have elastic cuffs
- square neck cut
- vibrant floral print and color
What I Don’t Like
- selling out quickly
Zara
This isn’t your average linen blouse, people. In fact, I’m still wrapping my brain around the fact that this statement piece from Zara is under $50. Be pretty in pink with this vibrant floral print that’s refreshingly more abstract than your typical flowery motif. That’s not all…it has a square-neck cut, smocked back and balloon sleeves equipped with elastic cuffs. In other words, it’s not just cute, it’s comfortable, too.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colors: 1
Best Linen Vest
What I Like
- flattering, longline cut
- quality fabric
- tailored silhouette
What I Don’t Like
- pricey
Alex Mill
ICYMI: Vests are trending, and I understand the hype after looking at this linen beauty from Alex Mill. Instead of a deep V-neckline, this vest has a classic crewneck and buttons down the chest for a cinched, tailored finish. The closures stop just above the belly button, making the blouse flare out and creating the illusion of an hourglass figure. Exquisite. One petite reviewer writes, “I’ve been looking for a crewneck, longline vest and this one from Alex Mill is so perfect. I usually HATE paying full price for anything, but I bought the vest in Navy first and once I felt the beautiful linen and saw [how] perfectly it fit, I had to buy it in white as well, especially when sizes were selling out so quickly!”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colors: 2
Best Long-Sleeve
8. Anthropologie Embroidered Linen Tie-Front Top
What I Like
- billowy, balloon sleeve details
- embroidery
- available in three fits (standard, petite and plus)
What I Don’t Like
- runs big
Anthropologie
Anthropologie’s linen blouse checks off all the boxes for a refined summer wardrobe. The large, balloon sleeves add a dramatic flair that’s whimsical and wearable. There’s embroidery at the end of the tapered sleeves and along the neckline and hem, but it’s the delicate button closures and tie front that steal the show. Fasten them shut or leave a few undone to reveal extra skin or a hint of your lace bra, if you’re feeling daring. “This top does run oversize, but the details are absolutely stunning,” says one Anthropologie customer. “A must-have if you’re a sucker for breezy white tops and embroidery.” Another buyer agrees, finding it roomy enough to fit her comfortably post-partum. It comes in three fits (standard, petite or plus) to guarantee a near-perfect fit.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 3X (petite options, too)
- Colors: 1
Most Luxurious
9. Vitamin A Playa Linen Boyfriend Shirt
What I Like
- lightweight
- quick drying
- matching shorts set
What I Don’t Like
- delicate fabric may tear easily
Vitamin A
This summer, I’m slipping on my bathing suits, grabbing a steamy beach read, applying tubes of sunscreen and heading straight for the beach, and this linen cover-up is the icing on top of my quintessential summer day for many reasons. “When I first tried it on, I was swimming in it, but then realized this shirt is for a very specific look. What made me go back to it was the quality, which was incredible, and now I think it's the perfect linen beach shirt,” gushes one buyer. The material is on the thinner side, so it’ll dry quickly if it gets wet. If you want a complete monochromatic set, snag the matching linen shorts and throw on a pair of comfortable sandals for the chicest beach-to-cocktail ensemble.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to L
- Colors: 18
Most Vibrant Linen Shirt
10. Farm Rio Festival Euroflax Blouse
What I Like
- vibrant, tropical print
- wavy, scallop trim
- elbow-length sleeves
What I Don’t Like
- delicate care instructions
Farm Rio
I can always rely on Farm Rio to supply vibrant prints like this stunning cropped blouse. It’ made with 100 percent linen and 100 percent attention to detail…no seriously, are you seeing that geometric floral print masterpiece? Not to mention, the wavy scallop trim will pop out (in a good way) when you pair it with high-waist shorts, jeans or skirts. I like that the sleeves are elbow length, because sometimes a gal wants a bit more coverage, and there’s a button closure at the back to make it easier to slip on and off without breaking up the fabric with a zipper.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Colors: 1
$140 at Farm Rio
Best Hook-and-Eye Linen Shirt
11. Madewell Scoopneck Crop Tank
What I Like
- quality fabric for the price point
- lightweight and breathable
- hook-and-eye closure
What I Don’t Like
- clasps can gape
- may not fit larger breasts
Madewell
“I purchased this linen top in surplus with the matching Harlow pants and it's such a cute outfit for spring and summer,” says one Madewell reviewer. “I love that the linen is not see-through and good quality, as there are so many other competitors that only have linen blends rather than 100 percent linen.” Plus, it has the cutest hook-and-eye closure all down the front, making for a cheeky peek-a-boo moment for a late-night dinner or fashionable trip to the bookstore. It’s easy to clean, too, since it’s machine washable.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 00 to 16
- Colors: 4
Best Halter Top
What I Like
- adjustable halter ties
- fabric is fully lined
- low back design
What I Don’t Like
- plunge neck and low back may be too revealing for some
Meshki
One word: Wowza. Here’s a linen blouse that isn’t boxy or shapeless whatsoever. Feminine and flirty, this halter top has gorgeous tie straps that you can tighten or loosen to your liking and a plunging V-neckline that’s designed to frame your collarbone and make the girls look dang good. As if that wasn’t enough, this blouse flows into a frill hem that you’ll appreciate on a hot day, and just wait until you see the low back design.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 3XL
- Colors: 2
Best Strapless
13. Quince European Linen Strapless Top
What I Like
- made from ethically woven linen
- hypoallergenic, durable and lightweight
- smocked back is comfortable and fits well
What I Don’t Like
- sizing may be inconsistent
Quince
If you want to put your décolletage on display, then look no further than this strapless linen number from Quince. It’s relaxed, flowy and exactly what you need when temps rise. “I was shocked at how comfortable and soft this linen top is and how it effortlessly stays on top without feeling like I'm toothpaste in a tube,” says Rachel Y., a Quince reviewer. Plus, the back is smocked, so you can bet it’ll feel comfortable.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colors: 4
Best Oversized Shirt
14. Zara Oversized Linen Shirt
What I Like
- versatile wear
- side ventilation makes it extra breezy
- affordable
What I Don’t Like
- not available in dark colors
Zara
Coastal cowgirl may be overtaking coastal grandma, but I’m certainly not over the “Nancy Myers-chic” aesthetic, and Zara’s oversize linen shirt screams a walk on the beach with Diane Keaton. It’s made from 100 percent certified European grown linen and embodies a modern take on a traditional tried-and-true blouse—just look at the buttons embellishing the side vents on either side. Wear it with the matching pleated pants to complete the monochromatic look or make it entirely your own by styling it as a blouse or tucking it into jeans.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Colors: 3
Best Sleeveless
15. Michael Michael Kors Sleeveless Button-Front Top
What I Like
- ruched front adds detail and stretch
- collar neckline
- slimming waist and princess seams
What I Don’t Like
- front buttons may pull at the seams
Michael Michael Kors
This sleeveless linen blouse is making us dream of lazy days sipping Aperol spritzes in Tuscany. There’s something extremely sleek about the button-up style and clean V-neck. Whether it’s the sharp collar that takes the look to the next level or the cut-off sleeves, I’m completely convinced I need it for my next trip I have yet to plan. Just look at that seamless tapering at the waist. And there’s no doubt that the ruched front will stretch and give throughout the day.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colors: 1
Best Camisole
What I Like
- square neckline is flattering on big boobs
- gentle feel on skin
What I Don’t Like
- fit may be snug at the top
Jenni Kayne
Jenni Kayne is a savior for all things knit and cozy, but this is your warning not to miss the brand’s precious camisoles, like this striped top of my dreams. This is guaranteed to complement almost every body shape, but it’ll especially suit those with bigger chests thanks to the straight neckline and subtle, vertical stripes. It’s made of a linen and viscose blend, which is a semi-synthetic fabric that takes on a silk-like texture but won’t absorb heat. So, you can bet this cami will feel softer to the touch than most linen silhouettes. For that reason, it can be worn with a simple pair of blue jeans or fancy trousers for an evening out.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Colors: 2
Chicest Linen Shirt
17. Eileen Fisher Organic Handkerchief Linen Box-Top
What I Like
- high quality fabric
- soft and breathable
- three-quarter sleeves provide arm coverage
What I Don’t Like
- not available in soft, pastel colorways
Eileen Fisher
Behold: a timeless blouse that’ll last you many seasons from none other than PureWow-favorite brand Eileen Fisher. Designed with three-quarter sleeves, a chic bateau neck and an effortless drape, this is the kind of piece that requires little to no effort to style. Given that fiery red has been trending these past few months, I’m partial to this bright apple shade, but there’s also a choice of bright pink, black and white. One buyer liked it so much she bought two, writing, “They are a perfect weight linen, soft and breathable—substantial enough to stay looking neat through a long workday. [Simply,] a classic wardrobe staple.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 3X
- Colors: 4
Best High-Neck Tank
18. Everlane The Linen High-Neck Tank
What I Like
- A-line fit
- high-neck coverage
- button closure detail at the nape of the neck
What I Don’t Like
- neckline may sit too high on some people
Everlane
This tank is selling like hotcakes at Everlane, and I’m honestly surprised it’s still in stock. It’s made from 100 percent linen and has a gorgeous high neck that accentuates the shoulders in the best way possible. The bodice of the blouse has a slight A-line fit, so it drapes away from your body ever so slightly, leaving plenty of comfortable room without losing your shape entirely. Besides this smooth, neutral bone white, it also comes in three other colors, brown and black and a sage green, so snag yours while it’s in stock.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 00 to 16
- Colors: 4
Most Romantic Linen Shirt
19. Reformation Paola Linen Top
What I Like
- delicate lace trims
- bow detail
- smocked back
What I Don’t Like
- fitted silhouette may run small
Reformation
Reformation is the ultimate one-stop shop for romantic and ultra-flattering fits. Case in point: this frilly blue and white floral linen that’s simply to-die-for. It’s completely sleeveless and features a sweetheart neckline that puts your décolletage on display. Like all of Reformation’s linen, it’s made from flax and can be washed on a cold setting and line dried to keep its quality. The slim-fitting top features a smocked back—a detail the brand is known to add to many of its pieces—so it’ll have a comfortable and flexible feel. My favorite part? The delicate details like the bow tied at the chest and the lace trim along the shoulder straps and hemline.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 0 to 12
- Colors: 3
Best Square-Neck
What I Like
- bow detail at the back
- square neckline
- pleated, loose fit provides a gentle flare and comfortable fit
What I Don’t Like
- bust may sit awkwardly on people with long torsos
J.Crew
Here’s a linen top you’ll want to wear all summer long, not just because it’s breathable and lightweight, but because it’s simply charming. Between the swingy, square-neck fit and front seam detailing, there’s a lot to love, especially the bow at the back. “[It’s] such a cute and versatile top,” writes a J.Crew reviewer. “The bow in the back and the pleat details in front add flare, [and there’s] a bit of a breezy swing to this top—in a good way.” It’s 100 percent linen and 100 percent cute.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 3X
- Colors: 4
Best Belted Linen Shirt
21. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Belted Utility Shirt
What I Like
- belted waist
- two chest patch pockets
- roll tab sleeves
What I Don’t Like
- limited colors and no non-striped options
Lauren by Ralph Lauren
I’m a sucker for a utilitarian look (hello, cargo pants), so when I laid my eyes on this belted linen blouse from Lauren by Ralph Lauren, my jaw dropped. It’s supposedly tremendously lightweight, which is quite impressive considering how much fabric makes up this garment, and it has these intentional buttoned placket and patch pocket details for optimal functionality. My favorite element? Easily the waist-defining belt that you can tie any which way your heart desires. On second thought, I’d like to add the roll tab sleeves—which keeps the fabric from falling—to my favorites, too.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 2XL
- Colors: 2