Linen is something of a wonder fabric. Made from the flax plant, it’s extremely strong and lightweight. Its versatility has made linen a cherished staple for tablecloths, towels and bedding for centuries. Fun fact: The term “linens” is now synonymous with those domestic items, even if they’re not actually made from linen. In the fashion world, linen is a sartorial superstar, especially in hot weather.
Here’s why it’s so popular: Like cotton, linen is eco-friendly and natural. But linen is sturdier. The reason being that the flax plant is tough and, once harvested, it needs to be stored for long periods to soften up the fibers. After that point, flax linen can last a remarkably long time; up to 30 years (cotton, by contrast, has a lifespan of five years). Linen is particularly great in steamy, humid weather since it has water-wicking properties, which draw sweat off the skin, and it dries quickly. Flax fibers are also hallow, which allow air to pass through, creating a beautifully breathable fabric.
Although you can pull on linen year-round, it’s an obvious choice for summer pieces—notably, breezy pants, which are fluid and easy to wear on sweltering days. If you’re in the market for new options, a few shopping pointers to keep in mind: Linen is more expensive than cotton, given its durability and the craft that goes into creating it, but you don’t need to spend a fortune. Linen blends, for example, tend to be more affordable, and it’s also wise to invest in styles that will hold up well and become classics in your wardrobe. Here, 13 of the best linen pants to shop this summer.
Wide-Leg And Draped Styles
Madewell: Pleated And Chic
Why they’re great: These pants are loose but also tailored so they don’t overwhelm you. Reviewers praise the flattering, comfortable fit and ultra-breathable cotton-linen blend. Key criticism: Since these pants are extremely popular, inventory might be limited—the petite and tall sizes are sold out. Other options: These pants come in three colors. Check here for other linen pants in more colors, lengths and fits.
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Anthropologie: Statement-Making
Why they’re great: This long and loose style has a glamorous, ‘70s silhouette that’s great for everyday but also dressier occasions. The pants come in a standard and petite lengths. Key criticism: Not everyone loves pleats, which create a more voluminous look. You can pair with a cropped, more fitted top to balance out the proportions, though, or consider straight leg styles instead. Other options: This style also come in white. Check here for more of the brand’s linen pants.
J.Crew: Relaxed And Classic
Why they’re great: These bestselling pants get top marks on fit and quality. They’re loose but not sloppy thanks to the drawstring waist, and the non-see-through linen comes in six versatile colors; you can also find tall, petite and standard lengths. Key criticism: Some colors have sold out, so sizing is limited in certain shades. Other options:Check here for more of the brand’s linen pants.
Gap: Softer And Slouchy
Why they’re great: These pants are blended with a linen-rayon weave, which gives them a less rigid silhouette with more movement than a traditional linen. They’re cut with a high waist and flared leg for comfortable ease. Key criticism: If you like a more structured pant, you might find these too flowy. Other options: These pants come in three neutral colors. Check here for more of the brand’s linen pants.
Jenni Kayne: High Quality Linen
Why they’re great: These pajama-style pants are cut from 100% linen and hold up well over time, which makes them a wardrobe classic. While they’re technically sleepwear the style is versatile enough to wear anytime. Key criticism: The brand recommends dry cleaning, not machine washing these pants. Other options: This style also comes in an ivory white shade. Check here for other breezy linen pieces from Jenni Kayne.
Straight-Leg And Tapered Styles
Athleta: Sleek Linen Joggers
Why they’re great: If you prefer a more tailored look for your linen, these jogger-inspired pants are gathered at the ankle and have a slimmer leg. They come in regular, tall and petite lengths. Key criticism: The pockets are zippered, which can feel bulky against the smooth linen. Other options: They’re available in four shades (including a peach that’s currently on sale). Check here for more linen pants to consider in different styles, lengths and fits.
Free People: Colorful And Printed
Why they’re great: The linen blend is loose and airy while the silhouette is tailored with pleats and a buttoned waist, which creates an interesting masculine-feminine contrast. The fabric is woven to create a graphic print as well. Key criticism: These only come in one length, with a 30-inch inseam, which can be hard if you’re not tall. Other options: You can shop them in a cream-colored shade as well. Check here for more of the brand’s linen pants.
J.Crew Factory: An Affordable Steal
Why they’re great: You can dress up or down these drawstring pants, which have a cuffed hem that shows off your ankle for a flattering effect. The leg is loose but not too baggy. Key criticism: Some reviewers say the white color is transparent. Other options: These pants come in six colors (the darker tones are more likely to be non-transparent); check here to see the brand’s other affordable linen styles.
Alex Mill: Tailored And Timeless
Why they’re great: These linen blend pants are work-friendly, comfortable and well-fitting. They’re garment dyed through a process that adds rich pigment and prevents transparency. Key criticism: The white color had low inventory at the time of publishing. Other options: These pants come in four colors. Check here for more linen options from Alex Mill.
Ankle-Length Cropped Styles
Reformation: Vacation-Ready And Bold
Why they’re great: The cropped wide-leg style is cool on hot days and has a flattering fit for a variety of body types. The pink color punches up your summer wardrobe and pairs well with other neutral-toned pieces. Key criticism: The low inventory—some sizes have sold out already. Other options: These pants come in two colors. Check here for more of Reformation’s linen pants.
Banana Republic: Lightweight For Hot Days
Why they’re great: These pants are cut from a blend of linen, breathable cotton and lyocell, a sustainably sourced fiber that adds a flowy drape to the style. On hot and humid days, this weave prevents that sticky feeling and doesn’t wrinkle easily. Key criticism: Some reviewers found that inseam sizing varies. Other options: This style is available in three colors. Check here to see the brand’s linen shop, with a variety of pants, shorts, shirts and dresses.
Athleta: Travel And Beach-Friendly
Why they’re great: These relaxed, wide-leg pants hit above the ankle for added breathability and versatility when walking and traveling. The pull-on waistband makes them easy to slip on for days spent in the city or at the beach. Key criticism: They run slightly big. Other options: This style comes in three colors. Check here for more linen pants in different colors and fits from the brand.
Quince: High Quality Linen Without The Markup
Why they’re great: Direct-to-consumer brand Quince is known for carrying luxurious fabrics at affordable price points. These 100% washable pants are cut from European linen and have handy pockets (two in front pockets, one in back). Key criticism: The sizes go up to XL but as of yet, the brand doesn’t carry plus-sizes in this style. Other options: These pants come in five colors. Check here to see the brand’s linen shop, which includes pants, shorts, shirts and shirtdresses.
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