The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (2024)

In our mind, there are few fabrics more inextricably linked to summer than linen. It is a remarkably tactile material that drapes around your body in a way that feels downright sexy when done right, propensity to wrinkle and all. Linen is a fabric that ages gracefully—each crease, fold, and pucker a new chapter in its story.

The right linen shirt also goes a long way in summoning big bohemian vacation energy. The best of 'em should be soft and fluttery, prone to swaying gently in welcome gusts of wind, especially when left half unbuttoned as if casually thrown on as an afterthought. There's a reason linen shirts remain a perennial staple of summer style: They're super lightweight, and the textured surface immediately confers a certain degree of respectability on the wearer, regardless of whatever else he's got on.

In the right linen shirt, you'll be able to conquer the summer heat and, worse, humidity with grace and distinction. And we have 12 swell options that fit the bill, whether you're looking for something short-sleeved or long-sleeved, something printed or something plain, something for when you're on vacation or for when you just need to take a mental one.

best basic linen shirt

J.Crew Short-Sleeve Baird Mcnu*tt Irish Linen Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (11)

best basic linen shirt

J.Crew Short-Sleeve Baird Mcnu*tt Irish Linen Shirt

Now 32% Off

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (12)Comes in Classic, Slim, and Tall fits
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (13)Has pockets
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (14)Buyers say it runs large

J.Crew sources its linen from an Irish mill that's been perfecting its technique since 1912. This shirt should probably cost more on this tidbit alone, but thankfully it doesn't.

best chic linen shirt

Bonobos Easy Linen Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (15)

best chic linen shirt

Bonobos Easy Linen Shirt

Now 53% Off

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (16)Plenty of color options
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (17)Comes in Regular, Short, and Long lengths
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (18)Buyers wish it was softer

Bonobos is no longer just the pants king. The brand, which initially specialized in trousers, now offers a full range of tops, including a bevy of linen shirts, that have dominion over others in the market.

best funky linen shirt

Tombolo ‘Vongole!’ Cabana Linen Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (19)

best funky linen shirt

Tombolo ‘Vongole!’ Cabana Linen Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (20)Has patch pockets
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (21)Unique, bold look
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (22)Buyers report the neckline is deeper than expected

Tombolo's selection of embroidered shirts, especially this cabana style, can be described in one word: delicious.

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best everyday linen shirt

Todd Snyder Sea Soft Irish Linen Camp Collar Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (23)

best everyday linen shirt

Todd Snyder Sea Soft Irish Linen Camp Collar Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (24)Has chest pocket
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (25)Plenty of color options
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (26)Pricier than other similar styles

Equal parts rugged and refined, this camp collar shirt, made of Italian linen, is the ideal throw-on-and-go item.

best classic linen shirt

Portuguese Flannel Classic Summer Linen Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (27)

best classic linen shirt

Portuguese Flannel Classic Summer Linen Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (28)Super lightweight and breathable
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (29)Curved hem allows for versatile untucked or tucked styling
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (30)On the pricier side for a plain shirt

It's right there in the name: This is a classic summer shirt. Pair with your best shorts or pants and be merrily on your way.

best printed linen shirt

Bugatchi Orson Floral Linen & Cotton Camp Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (31)

best printed linen shirt

Bugatchi Orson Floral Linen & Cotton Camp Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (32)Cool design
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (33)Roomy feel
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (34)No pockets
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (35)Not 100% linen (40% cotton)

Summer is the time to pull out some funky and fresh prints, and Bugatchi has a damn great one. This camp collar shirt is meant for days spent by the sea and sand.

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best dressy linen shirt

Incotex Grandad-Collar Linen Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (36)

best dressy linen shirt

Incotex Grandad-Collar Linen Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (37)Sophisticated style
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (38)Has details like grandad collar and mother-of-pearl buttons
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (39)$$$

For summer, swap out your stiff button-ups with something more easy, breezy, and, most important, linen. Incotex has a great option that's a piece of cake to dress up.

best sustainable linen shirt

Alex Crane Playa Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (40)

best sustainable linen shirt

Alex Crane Playa Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (41)Plenty of color options
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (42)Has a chest pocket
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (43)Pre-loved look is hard to dress up

Made with sustainably grown French linen, this faded-hue shirt has the look and feel of something that's already been a closet staple for years.

best elevated linen shirt

Banana Republic Castello Linen Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (44)

best elevated linen shirt

Banana Republic Castello Linen Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (45)Easy to dress up or down
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (46)Timeless look
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (47)No pockets

BR walks a fine line between laid-back vibes and something more chic and handsome with this staple white shirt.

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best affordable linen shirt

Uniqlo Premium Linen Long-Sleeve Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (48)

best affordable linen shirt

Uniqlo Premium Linen Long-Sleeve Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (49)Great price
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (50)Plenty of color options
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (51)Buyers report it lacks shape and tailoring

A perfectly fitted premium linen shirt for 30 bucks? Say no more.

best versatile linen shirt

Quince 100% European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (52)

best versatile linen shirt

Quince 100% European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (53)Easy to dress up or down
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (54)Great price
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (55)No pockets

It's hard to believe that you can score a tailored linen shirt this good for a price this great, but Quince is all about subverting and exceeding our expectations.

best luxury linen shirt

Loro Piana André Arizona Linen Shirt

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (56)

best luxury linen shirt

Loro Piana André Arizona Linen Shirt

Pros
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (57)High-quality, trusted brand
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (58)Made from luxe yarn-dyed slub linen
Cons
  • The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (59)$$$

If you want to feel true luxury this summer, Loro Piana is the choice for you. From the mother-of-pearl buttons to the lightweight fabric, you'll want to live in this all season long.

The 12 Best Linen Shirts for Summoning Big Vacation Energy (2024)

FAQs

What color linen shirt to wear? ›

For a classic look, the go-to color styles are a light blue linen shirt, a navy linen shirt or a white linen shirt. To keep it casual, pair it with deep blue denim jeans, chinos or even shorts. Opt for the light blue shirt with loafers for a casual summer day at the office.

What are the benefits of linen shirts? ›

6 Benefits of Wearing Linen Clothing
  • Durability. While linen clothing may be pricey, they're a timeless investment that will serve you long enough. ...
  • Linen is environmentally friendly. ...
  • Linen has temperature-regulating features. ...
  • Linen clothes are antibacterial. ...
  • Linen wear is hypoallergenic. ...
  • Linen is anti-static.
Dec 26, 2023

Which is better for summer, cotton or linen? ›

Although cotton absorbs a little more moisture, it is unable to wick moisture away from the skin as effectively as linen. Linen is both breathable and highly wicking. Wicking means linen draws moisture (sweat) away from the skin and dries quickly, keeping you more comfortable in the heat.

What type of pants to wear with a linen shirt? ›

Jeans, chinos and tailored trousers can all work well with a linen shirt, but which to opt for will depend largely on the occasion in question. When you need to go casual, style a light-coloured linen shirt with navy blue denim straight leg jeans and finish off with sand coloured suede desert boots.

What color linen shirt is best for summer? ›

Choose the Right Color: Opt for light and classic summer colors like white, light blue, pale pink, beige, or light gray. These colors not only keep you cool in the heat but also exude a fresh, summery vibe. Fit Matters: Ensure your linen shirt fits well. It should be slightly loose but not baggy.

How can you tell if a linen shirt is good quality? ›

Linen clothes made in high-quality fabrics have even and smooth colors. If the fabric comes colored, it has to have a rich, vivid color with no signs of discoloration or fading at any part of the item. Natural linen color may vary depending on the season, soil, and other factors.

Does linen give you energy? ›

Wool and Linen both have a signature of 5000 mHz! That amazing naturally created feature of the fabrics will also give energy to your body as you wear it.

How often should you wash a linen shirt? ›

Keep in mind that over washing is not good for clothes, so we advise to only wash your linen items when needed and to spot treat stains rather than wash the whole article. Some linens, especially those untreated or more complex shapes such as suits or jackets, may have more specific instructions for washing.

Are linen shirts good for travel? ›

Linen, derived from the flax plant, is a natural fabric known for its breathability and durability. These qualities alone make it a fantastic choice for travel.

How long do linen shirts last? ›

Durability and Longevity

In reality, any cotton clothing could last for a season or approximately 5 years maximum, but linen clothing goes beyond one season and one decade. In fact, with proper care and washing, it could even last for up to 30 more years or past your lifetime.

Is 100 linen good? ›

According to the IMT Comfort Index the ratio between insulation and breathability indicates what fabrics are most comfortable to wear. 100% Linen scores the highest comfort with an index of 0.388 followed by cotton with a score of 0.386 and PES being last.

Why are linen shirts so expensive? ›

The appeal of linen's unique qualities, labor-intensive production requirements, and growing demand for sustainability collectively contribute to its premium price. Moreover, linen's timeless elegance and eco-friendly appeal continue to captivate consumers interested in investing in both quality and the planet.

Should linen shirts be tight or loose? ›

It's important to choose a shirt that's neither too tight nor too loose. A well-fitting linen shirt should be comfortable, allowing you to move freely without feeling constricted.

Should you wear a tee shirt under a linen shirt? ›

Do you wear an undershirt with a linen shirt? You don't have to, but there's nothing wrong with it. Linen shirts look great on their own, but you can easily add a tee underneath for some extra warmth. Crew necks are good, and scoop necks are even better (they go with that whole carefree summer beach vibe).

Should you fold linen shirts? ›

Caring for Linen

A downside of linen is that it creases easily, so it is best not to fold your linen clothing, they should be hanged. Fashion is more accepting of the wrinkled look of linen, and it has carved out its own unique “lived in” look.

What color looks good on linen? ›

It's very easy and convenient to match natural linen color with other neutral colors such as white, brown, grey, and black.

What color shirt is most flattering? ›

One rule of thumb is that colors which create a contrast in brightness with your main skin tone can be flattering. For example, “jewel” tones like ruby or emerald can flatter paler skin, while oranges and yellows can flatter darker skin, no matter what the undertone is.

When should I start wearing linen shirts? ›

What Season Should Linen be Worn? Linen does not have only one season appropriate to be worn, it has proven to be perfect for any weather and time of the year! You can easily enjoy linen for the hot days and layer it stylishly during the chilly months of winter.

Is linen hot or cool to wear? ›

Linen is another top choice for a breathable fabric for hot weather conditions. It is also very light and is loosely woven which allows heat to escape from the body. It absorbs a lot of moisture and dries quickly, keeping you cool and dry. It tends to be stiff, but that also means that it is not sticking to your body.

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