Summer Refresh: How to Style a White Linen Shirt for Men and Women
By: Emily Whitehill.
Published on
- 3 min read
Ah, the classic white linen shirt. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of your summer wardrobe—versatile, cool, and always on trend. Whether you’re aiming for a relaxed beach vibe or a sharp city look, the white linen shirt is your best friend. Let’s dive into how to style this quintessential piece for both men and women.
For the Ladies: Casual Chic
Ladies, we know you love a piece that can take you from a morning coffee run to an evening stroll on the beach. A white linen shirt does just that. Pair it with high-waisted denim shorts for a look that’s effortlessly chic. Roll up the sleeves and add a chunky belt to cinch the waist, giving structure to your ensemble. Slip on some strappy sandals, and you’re golden.
Accessorize with a straw tote and sunglasses for that perfect summer flair. Remember, it’s all about looking breezy while staying comfy. And with the sun high in the sky, the white linen reflects light, keeping you cool as you enjoy the day.
For the Gents: Beach Ready
Guys, when the temperature rises, you want to look hot without feeling it. Enter the white linen shirt. Pair it with lightweight chinos or Bermuda shorts for a look that’s ready for the boardwalk or a seaside dinner.
Roll up the sleeves and leave it unbuttoned over a tank top for that relaxed, I-just-stepped-off-a-yacht vibe. Go for leather sandals or boat shoes—sockless, of course—to round off this holiday-ready look. As the sun sets and the sky turns to a warm golden hue, your white linen shirt becomes the perfect transition from day to night.
Mix and Match
The beauty of the white linen shirt is its ability to play well with others. Mix textures and layers for an interesting, dimensional look. Women can pair it with a silky maxi skirt and men can layer it under a summer blazer for those cooler evenings. It’s all about balance and letting the linen take center stage.
Office Appropriate
Yes, you can take your white linen shirt to work! Women, tuck it into a tailored pencil skirt and add a blazer for a professional yet summer-friendly outfit. Men, pair it with light-colored dress pants and a leather belt. Keep it crisp and make sure it’s well-ironed—you want to look sharp, not like you’ve just rolled out of bed.
Evening Elegance
For those summer nights when the invite says ‘smart casual’, the white linen shirt is your hero. Ladies, pair it with a flowy, high-waisted skirt and delicate jewelry. Men, try it with dark jeans and a blazer. Add a watch and some smart shoes, and you’re ready to make an impression under the stars.
Care and Keeping
Remember, linen tends to wrinkle, but that’s part of its charm. Embrace the creases for casual occasions, but for more formal settings, a quick iron or steam will do the trick. And always check the care label—linen is durable, but it deserves some TLC to keep it looking its best.
Conclusion
There you have it—your guide to styling a white linen shirt for any summer occasion. It’s all about the mix of ease and elegance that this timeless piece brings to the table. So, whether you’re hitting the beach or the boardwalk, a barbecue or a boardroom, make the white linen shirt your go-to for staying cool while looking hot this summer.