In terms of summer textiles, linen truly stands out. The cloth made from flax is airy, natural, lightweight, and ideal for hot, humid conditions. Rather than adhering to perspiring skin, linen actually draws away from it; it’s a fantastic fabric for summer clothing. The drawbacks are, of course, that linen summer dresses can be pricey, prone to wrinkling, and frequently a little rougher than, say, cotton.
But worry not—we’ve gathered 15 highly regarded linen dresses for this edition of Hype Machine that are not only fashionable but also reasonably priced, silky, and breathable—perfect for stuffy, humid days. The best part is that all of these breezy summer dresses have been recommended by actual customers who are either planning summer vacation outfits, updating their job gear, or just figuring out how to work with their seasonal wardrobe to withstand the rapidly approaching triple digits. It’s time to join them and purchase yourself some of the most stylish linen dresses so you can look great all season long.
Lulus See The City Beige Button Front Tiered Midi Dress
The Best Tiered Linen Dress
Summertime is the ideal time for a flowy, comfy tiered dress, especially if it’s made of linen. This Lulus choice, with its roomy full skirt and adjustable drawstring, is perfect for carefree days spent exploring the city and being prepared for whatever the day may bring.
As one reviewer puts it, “This dress is just incredible!” “It’s perfect for everyday wear; the cut is great and the fabric is very light without being see-through at all.”
Abercrombie & Fitch Premium Linen Scalloped Mini Dress
The Best Mini Linen Dress
This tiny linen dress is the perfect way to make a statement, whether you’re hosting your bachelorette party by the beach or taking a coastal vacation. We are completely infatuated with this dress because of its wide straps, square neckline, and scalloped edges.
“I adore this tiny linen outfit! Sincerely, I had just skimmed over it on the website. However, after trying it on in person, I fell head over heels! Fits true to size; the white fabric is lined and opaque. The pattern is elevated by the scallop detailing. One reviewer says, “I’m wearing this to my bridal shower.”
J.Crew Capitaine Shirtdress
The Best Versatile Linen Dress
Wear this adaptable shirtdress loose for running errands or dress it up with an everyday belt for the workplace.
“I am excited to wear this as the weather gets warmer. It has a loose fit with slight shaping, and I appreciate the longer sleeves, pockets, and modest hemline. Just looking at it makes me want to go on a summer vacation,” a critic comments. “I can wear an XL or L depending on the style, and the L was quite roomy, although the fit is on the larger side. Not with the belt, please. I purchased the light blue one, and if the light pink colour was available, I would buy another one right away.”
Madewell Cassie Button-Front Midi Dress
The Best Linen Cover-up Dress
It’s not always hot and stuffy to wear office dress in the summer. With the shirtdress from Universal Standard, you can add some flair while remaining cool and comfy throughout the day.
For our sweltering summers, linen is my preferred fabric. This dress is amazing. Ideal for jogging, work, or laid-back summer activities. A reviewer notes that it is “true to size, not too fitted, and just the right length.”
Jenni Kayne Day Dress
The Best Conservative Linen Dress
Jenny Kayne’s day dress can be a wonderful choice if you require that extra layer of sun protection. The maxi-length, button-down dress gathers at the waist and features midi sleeves. We adore the sophisticated, retro-inspired style, which will look great this summer whether you’re strolling along the beach or in the office.
Since it’s difficult to locate linen dresses with a defined waist, I was drawn to the Day Dress. I bought the black in a small,” a reviewer comments. “Upon opening the dress, I was struck by how well-made and substantial the fabric was. To further secure it than just the buttons, there is a tiny metal clasp at the waist. The skirt had a lot of volume and fullness. Although I did dress it up a little for the office, I plan to wear it much more casually. I am 5’7”, 150 pounds, hourglass, 32DD, and usually wear a size 6 in dresses.
Aritzia Golden Hour Linen Dress
The Best Smocked Linen Dress
This flirtatious linen dress is a true representation of the cottagecore vibe. What’s not to love about tie straps and adorable smocking?
“I adore this outfit. Light, comfortable, and adaptable to any outfit. Small fits perfectly; I usually wear a medium or small,” a reviewer comments.
Maeve Linen Shirt Dress
The Best Long-Sleeved Linen Frock
This button-down maxi perfectly embodies the wavering grandma vibe of the seaside. What’s not to love about this self-tie waist and basic stripe pattern?
“I bought this for my birthday in April. The first week of June saw its arrival. I almost decided against it after seeing a dress I liked on sale. A reviewer says, “This dress is everything, so I’m so glad I didn’t cancel.” “The material looks like linen yet isn’t rough or crunchy. It has lines. Has pockets. Even with the self-tie, it looks fantastic. A broad leather belt looks better. Still, it’s quite lengthy. It skims the floor over my 5’9” frame. I am eager to pair it with my thick-soled pewter sandalsThe nicest birthday present I’ve gotten for myself in a while.
Magic Linen Royal Toscana Linen Dress
The Best Linen DressFor The Beach
Your new go-to linen garment for relaxing by the pool will be Magic Linen’s Royal Toscana Linen Dress. It features two side pockets, an eye-catching asymmetrical high-low hem, and a back button fastening with a coconut motif, all in keeping with the theme.
“I adore the linen dress I own, Royal Toscana. It fits perfectly and is of excellent quality. I’m very excited to wear it to the beachside dinner in July! A reviewer exclaims, “I just wish I had bought another in a different colour.”
Masai Copenhagen Nydela Linen Shift Dress
The Best Linen Shift Dress
Wear this colourful shift dress by Masai Copenhagen to keep things light and airy. With its elbow-length sleeves and ruffled V-neck collar, it’s ideal for days when you’re not sure what to wear.
“I adore this outfit! One reviewer extols the virtues of it, saying, “Cold and comfortable on summer days—tested it on a 90-some degree day and love[d] the way it breathed.” “I got a size large; it fits nicely, is a little roomy, and looks amazing with a belt.” Given that this brand does in fact run a little large, [I] might have been able to get away with the medium.
H&M Linen Shirt Dress
The Best Linen Cover-up Dress
Barbie adores the beach, and her linen cover-up is the ideal addition to any water-themed activity. The translucent button-up, which is slightly oversized and made entirely of linen, is ideal for throwing over any wet swimsuit after a swim.
“The cut is traditional and the blue is stunning. most linen gowns and this particular one… I reduce in size. A reviewer states, “I usually wear a XXL, but I ordered this dress in an XL, and it is wonderful.
Banana Republic Pauline Linen Midi Dress
The Best Brat Summer Linen Dress
Summertime brat girl culture has arrived at Banana Republic. We adore how easily gorgeous and simple this dress is to wear. It would look great with brown sandals and gold accessories.
Reviewer: “Beautiful colour and silhouette.” The dress is well-fitting and not excessively short. Ideal for a summertime gathering and effortlessly dressed up or down. This suits my 5’3″ body; I received it in a petite.
Everlane The Linen Daytripper Shirtdress
The Best Oversized Fit Linen Dress
This garment is the ideal illustration of how sometimes simplicity really is better. You can wear this warm-weather staple—which has stripes, an oversized fit, and a high-low hem—and go about your day.
“I adore this outfit! Not only is it really comfy, but it is flattering,” a reviewer remarks. “I would normally opt for a medium or small, but I got the extra small after trying it on since it is so oversized and I am only 5’2”.”
DKNY V-Neck Linen Maxi Dress
The Best Low-Maintenance Linen Dress
Introducing the classic linen dress you’ve been missing from your closet. A casual, sleeveless maxi dress by DKNY is suitable for any setting and occasion. Wear it with a striking necklace for an impromptu weekend breakfast with friends, or dress it up for a book club read on your patio.
“You should always have this black dress in your closet. A reviewer exclaims, “It fits me perfectly and I love the softness of this dress.” “Even after a few washings, the stitching is expertly done and retains its colour beautifully. It would be wise to purchase this clothing.
Ralph Lauren Linen Shirtdress
The Best Occasion Linen Dress
Want to look great in a summer-ready fabric for a major meeting or a semi-formal birthday celebration? Choose this Ralph Lauren Linen Shirtdress, which with its fit-and-flare form and front tie at the waist, perfectly balances the casual and dressy style categories.
One reviewer says, “Reminds me of something Lauren Bacall would have worn.” “Looks amazing wearing my straw hat!”
Quince 100% Organic Linen Short Sleeve Dress
The Best Linen Dress For Work
An excellent choice for any workplace situation, this number features a collared shirtdress neckline, an optional sash, and a moderate length. The airy item is a summertime essential for those muggy days when you don’t want to wear a suit or trousers to work. It comes in eight distinct neutral colours.
“The linen is such a great quality for the price, and it’s the perfect work dress for summer,” says one customer. “I’m in DC where it’s incredibly humid and this dress is nice and breathable when I have to step out in the heat.”