Given that summer is winding down, you’re likely ready to push all your warm-weather essentials to the back of your closet to make room for the latest fall trends. But as you prepare to bid adieu to your barely-there bikinis, beach-ready flip-flops, and your summer basics, like denim shorts, there’s one summer-adjacent piece that you’ll want to keep around as we shift into autumn—the linen shirt. A staple transitional piece that any fashion connoisseur will vouch for.
“When the weather begins to fluctuate, there are plenty of ways to make the best linen shirts work in your favor,” says Shalice Brawner, LA-based fashion and lifestyle content creator whose wardrobe is stacked with breezy linens. Brawner tells Marie Claire that linen shirts are ideal for layering because they're inherently breathable. “I would suggest styling a linen shirt beneath a cardigan or a blazer during the transitional season,” she says. “Follow this tip, and you’ll persevere through cool mornings and evenings while remaining comfortable during warmer parts of the day.”
Aside from layering, Brawner explains that there are other ways to give this quintessential summer style an autumnal twist. “Balance the breezy feel of linen with something heavier like a wool sweater and corduroy pants,” she says. The content creator also recommends sticking with warmer colors like “olive green, mustard yellow, rusty brown, and deep burgundy” to give your look a seasonal appeal.
Ready to welcome a linen shirt (or several) into your transitional wardrobe? There are plenty of designers that will happily meet your style needs this season. Labels like Banana Republic, Theory, and James Perse offer both long-sleeved and short-sleeved options. Lafayette 148 and Loro Piana have a range of roomy silhouettes for an elevated oversized. If you prefer a fitted silhouette, designers like J.Crew, Dôen, and Proenza Schouler have great foundational options, while Anine Bing and Zimmermann styles make a case for fall-friendly stripes and floral prints.
Ahead, shop Marie Claire’s extensive edit of the best linen shirts across multiple categories that you can wear now and throughout the fall season.
Short-Sleeved Linen Shirts
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Cool off in a linen shirt crafted with cropped sleeves.
The early fall season is often still riddled with hot days, so you’ll want to slip into a short-sleeved linen shirt that’s nice and airy. Brawner shares that Mango has some of the best short-sleeved styles that will undoubtedly keep you cool. “Plus, the brand’s selection features a cost-effective price point if that’s what you’re looking for,” she adds.
Find similar styles decorated with classic front buttons and sharp collars at Faherty, AYR, and Everlane. Alternatively, shop for a linen shirt with a scoop neckline at Banana Republic or choose Posse’s version, crafted with a cinched bodice.
These short-sleeved styles are indeed summery, so Brawner suggests teaming them with bottoms that check the “fall mood board” box to make them work for colder weather. “Pair your linen shirt with straight-leg jeans, tailored chinos, or even mini skirts layered over tights,” she says.
Long-Sleeved Linen Shirts
With countless ways to style a long-sleeved shirt for fall, you'll be reaching for one more often than not.
For those days when temperatures begin to dip, reach for a long-sleeved linen shirt that will provide coverage without causing you to break a sweat. “James Perse offers a breathable black linen shirt that is low maintenance and incredibly soft,” says Brawner.
Stay in neutral territory with Rag & Bone, FARM Rio, and Gabriela Hearst—there, you’ll discover versatile shades of baby blue, ivory, and navy. You could also dabble in the latest fall 2024 color trends (specifically olive green and burgundy) by way of Theory and Alex Mill.
Brawner recommends adding other lightweight layers if you’re seeking a bit more warmth in addition to your long-sleeved linen shirt. “Consider wearing your linen shirt with a denim jacket or a trench coat,” she says. To complete your outfit, opt for tailored trousers, ankle boots, and a structured handbag.”
Striped Linen Shirts
Decorate your collection of linen tops with vivid stripes.
There’s no better way to breathe life into your transitional wardrobe than with a stripe-emblazoned top. Nili Lotan's version offers a hint of contrast with brilliant white collars and cuffs. Anine Bing goes bold with a not-so-under-the-radar pattern that can be spotted from a mile away. Meanwhile, Max Mara, Veronica Beard, DONNI, and The Frankie Shop are laidback yet elevated with classic thin stripes.
If you go the striped route, try styling your look with plain bottoms that will allow your top to do the talking.
Oversized Linen Shirts
These days, shirt hemlines that fall below the hips are more stylish than ever.
It appears as though the “big shirt summer” trend is making its way into fall. Brands like Loulou Studio, Lafayette 148, Banana Republic, Loro Piana, and Vince are all endorsing the fit with spacious silhouettes and lengthy hemlines that are long enough to create the illusion of a mini dress.
Even Brawner has co-signed the style, sharing that one of her favorite oversized shirts belongs to the label Frank and Eileen. “Their linen button-up shirt is quite long and has a high-low hem for extra coverage,” she says. “It’s a true standout piece.”
Fitted Linen Shirts
If you'd prefer a tight-fitting look, try a linen shirt that hugs your shape.
Although the fashion crowd is certainly experimenting with roomy shapes this season and into fall, slim tops are spinning through the trend cycles, too. Slip into linen tops from Quince, Reformation, TWP, and J.Crew for a more fitted look. “J.Crew is one of my go-to brands for linen pieces, and their Baird McNutt Irish Linen shirt does not disappoint,” says Brawner. “It’s lightweight, extremely breathable, and fits perfectly.”
Apres Studio takes the fitted look a step further with a slightly sculpted waist, and Proenza Schouler demonstrates a unique approach with a wrapped design trimmed in leather piping.
Statement Linen Shirts
Make heads turn in a linen shirt covered with breathtaking prints.
Calling all style mavens who love to make a statement—Marie Claire curated the selection of linen shirts below just for you. Grow a garden in your closet with Madewell, Zimmerman, or & Other Stories tops, which flaunt bold floral blooms. You can charm onlookers with Alemais’ paisley button-up shirt, Tao Comme des Garçons’ bow-detail top, or Anthropologie’s lace cutwork blouse.
Meet the Expert
Shalice Brawner is a fashion and lifestyle content creator whose style is rooted in grace and sophistication. As a creator, she has collaborated with renowned brands like Nordstrom, Burberry, and Lululemon. She has also been featured in a variety of publications including Real Simple, Locale Magazine, and LA’s KTLA. Shalice’s journey inspires women worldwide to embrace elegance in every facet of life.
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