The ultimate summer essential: The linen shirt

The linen shirt is a versatile piece that pairs effortlessly with shorts, sandals, chinos, jeans or even under a lightweight cotton or linen blazer. Essentially, it complements almost everything in your wardrobe. The coarse linen fibres are loosely woven, allowing the fabric to breathe better than a tightly woven cotton shirt, making it ideal for warmer weather.

When you get warm and start to sweat in your linen shirt, the coarser weave of the linen fabric handles moisture better than cotton. It doesn’t cling to your body as easily and dries faster in the breeze, thanks to its breathable fabric. While many shy away from linen garments due to their tendency to wrinkle, choosing a fitted, relatively slim-cut garment that coordinates well with the rest of your outfit can turn those wrinkles into a charming feature.

In short, the cut and style support for the linen shirt, while the material's properties contribute to its laid-back appeal. The linen shirt might not be your go-to for an important office meeting, but paired with a lightweight cotton or linen suit, the wrinkles become a detail that adds character to the look.

We view the linen shirt as the perfect piece to elevate the style of a pair of swim shorts, as well as to tone down the formality of a suit, giving it a more relaxed summer feel. When worn with swim shorts, there’s no need to button it up at all; just wear it open like a casual jacket for stylish, comfortable sun protection.

With its classic, timeless charm, the linen shirt is an indispensable item in every summer wardrobe, a perennial favourite that is a staple summer garment.