Meet the Linen Dresses Every It-Girl Will Be Wearing This Summer
Breathable styles that blend timeless elegance with go-anywhere comfort.


Fleeting summer trends come and go, but one thing remains certain: the best linen dresses are here to stay. Made from gauzy fabric, this lightweight style offers instant relief from scorching heat, making it a must-have in every minimalist capsule wardrobe for warm weather. Plus, when it comes to styling, a streamlined linen dress does all the heavy lifting. Just slip one on, and all that’s left is to add a pair of summer shoes, sling a woven bag over your shoulder, and adorn your look with some whimsical jewelry.
My closet is overflowing with a collection of linen dresses for these reasons. Long days at the office call for Aritzia’s Countess dress, which features a modest neckline and a hem that falls below the knee. For sun-filled moments by the beach, I often rely on J.Crew’s Cabana frock, which can easily be dressed up for a shoreside dinner with elevated wedges and a designer handbag. As for the styles I’m craving, Veronica Beard’s Loreta dress is high on my wish list because of its elegant fit-and-flare silhouette that’s perfect for upscale occasions like a charming garden party.
If you want to add a touch of ease and sophistication to your summer wardrobe, look no further. I’ve curated a list of linen dresses that I’m wearing—and loving—this season.
As a minimalist who usually avoids prints, I’m making an exception for gingham this summer. Characterized by a classic checkered pattern, this style feels “timeless” rather than “trendy.”
Add a relaxed touch to your LBD with Alex Mill’s buttoned linen dress. It pairs well with casual leather sandals and a canvas tote bag.
DL1961 is known for its durable denim collection, but don’t overlook the brand’s linen line. I’m eyeing their Montauk dress, which features cute buttons and a sharp collared neckline.
Plastered with bold stripes, Madewell’s linen maxi dress has a strong nautical appeal. I’ll enhance the maritime vibe with fisherman sandals and a net bag.
I strongly believe that everyone should have at least one white dress in their summer wardrobe. If you want to expand your collection, start with this charming piece from Everlane.
I can’t take my eyes off Mango’s breezy linen dress. The asymmetrical shape and gathered fabric along the sides make this design a real gem.
If you haven’t heard the latest style news, let me tell you that polka dots are making a comeback in fashion’s trend cycle. Try out the look with Zara’s version, which is actually quite subtle.
The latest Gap x Dôen collaboration offers a range of droolworthy designs, but this dress is definitely my favorite. The empire waist and short puff sleeves create a flattering shape that I love.
Heading out for a night on the town? Elevate Favorite Daughter’s sultry maxi dress with a pair of strappy sandals and a luxurious shoulder bag. It’s a foolproof going-out outfit you can wear on repeat.
J.Crew’s Cabana dress will make you feel as if you’re wrapped in a cloud, thanks to its soft linen blend. Wear this beach-ready outfit if comfort is your top priority.
Aritzia’s Countess dress is now my favorite summer work outfit. The styling options are countless, but I usually pair it with sleek ballet flats, simple gold hoops, and a durable laptop bag.
It girls are wearing olive green this summer, so naturally, I’ve found a way to incorporate this gorgeous color into my personal style. I’ll be doing so with Reiss’s Roxanne sundress, which features spaghetti straps, an ankle-grazing hemline, and a bias cut.
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Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.