As the summer heat looms, I find myself bracing for another season of sweat. Winter has its layers to combat the cold, but summer? No amount of peeling off can beat the blazing sun. For guys like me, whose sweat glands work overtime, summer dressing needs serious strategy. Enter linen - the miracle fabric that makes surviving the heat almost enjoyable.
With its moisture-wicking superpowers (it can absorb five times its weight in sweat!) and rapid drying abilities, linen is a no-brainer. Some say wearing linen is like being 3–4 degrees cooler than wearing cotton or silk. True or not, one thing's clear - linen keeps you feeling fresh. Let’s explore why this fabric is a must-have and how you can style it effortlessly.
T-shirt
Who said linen is just for dress shirts? Linen t-shirts are lightweight, airy, and have a drape that flatters your frame. They’re an upgrade from your regular cotton tee, giving off a more refined vibe.
Aurélien's linen jersey-knit T-shirt in a light beige-yellow hue is effortlessly versatile for styling.
The Aurélien linen T-shirt with a jersey knit. Its light beige hue makes it effortlessly versatile.
I find linen T-shirts have a better drape compared to cotton. Especially when styled tucked in, a basic crewneck short-sleeve T-shirt in linen often outshines its cotton counterpart in creating a more flattering silhouette.
Brands Worth Exploring:
Aurélien
Officine Generale
Sunspel
Polo
Need something smart-casual? Linen polos blend the relaxed feel of t-shirts with a touch of sophistication. Most designs incorporate cotton for added softness and elasticity, making them an excellent pick for work or weekend outings.
Brands to Check Out:
Luca Faloni
Arket
Mango Man
Dress Shirts
If there’s one piece that defines linen, it’s the classic dress shirt. Perfectly suited for casual or semi-formal settings, linen shirts embrace wrinkles as a style statement rather than a flaw. They’re the antithesis of stiff office shirts - ideal for beach vacations or summer garden parties.
Brands to Explore:
Asket
ISTO.
Uniqlo
shorts
Confession: I’m not big on shorts. I often opt for long trousers, even when the heat is relentless. That said, a summer wardrobe without shorts feels incomplete. Linen shorts maximize the fabric’s breathability, keeping you comfortable during the hottest days.
Brands to Look At:
120% Lino
Hartford
Ralph Lauren
Linen Trousers
Linen trousers are where elegance meets comfort. While they lean more casual than formal, they’re perfect for breezy summer evenings or relaxed office days.
Pro tip: Pleated linen trousers are stylish but don’t expect the pleats to stay sharp all day. Linen’s wrinkles are part of its charm, so embrace the lived-in look.
Neutral tones like ivory or cream are excellent summer staples, but don’t shy away from pastels or bold colors if you’re feeling adventurous.
Brands to Consider:
Ripa Ripa
Onia
NN07
Linen may not have the sleekness of silk or the versatility of cotton, but it’s the reigning champion of summer fabrics. From t-shirts to trousers, it’s a fabric that lets you stay cool and look cool. So, if your wardrobe is missing this summer essential, now’s the time to fix that.
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