Linen tops to wear now and later
An unseasonal heat wave this week sent me scrambling for some warm weather outfits. So I dug out a favorite relaxed linen shirt to wear while out and about in the heat. Whether you’re planning a sunny getaway, or live where temperatures are already climbing, it’s good to have a few linen tops at hand.
Spring is the best time to shop for linen shirts and tops, especially if you’re looking for shirts with sleeves. (Once we get closer to summer, I notice that styles get more bare and beachy.)
Linen tops (with sleeves) for women
Relaxed-fit classic linen shirts can be a versatile option. Wear them buttoned or open over a tee or tank. Tuck them in, knot the front, or wear them loose. Layer them under a jacket or cardigan. Pop the collar, roll up the sleeves…
I have a version of this Eileen Fisher shirt from several years back, and still wear it during the warmest seasons. It’s always included in my travel wardrobes for warm weather destinations. I wear it on its own as a top, unbuttoned over a tank top, or as a swimsuit cover up. I let the wrinkles fall where they may and don’t bother with the iron. Sizes Petite P to 2X.
The cheetah print on this lightweight shirt is a fun touch. When it’s too warm to layer, a print can add visual interest to your outfits. Sizes X-Small to X-Large.
This classic chambray shirt has tab sleeves and a longer curved hem. It’s available in more colors in Misses, Petite, Plus and Tall sizes.
The contrast stripes on the pocket and placket of this shirt add subtle interest. If you’re looking for more of a color pop, it’s also available in a fun pink stripe. Sizes 00-16.
Here’s another linen shirt from Eileen Fisher; this one’s offered in some interesting colors, including this Berry. Sizes Petite P to 3X.
If wrinkles are a sticking point for you, check out the no-iron linen shirts from Chico’s. They really do stay looking crisp! This ikat print style is available in size 00(0-2) to 4(20-22).
Other styles
Embroidered palm trees liven up this linen camp shirt. Sizes X-Small to Large (fit info says it runs small).
A lively batik print and bell sleeves make this top perfect for an evening out. (Plus HERE.)
This striped linen popover is available in both blue and green, in Misses, Petite, Plus and Plus Petite sizes.
And sometimes you just need a good, basic tee. The nice drape of the linen jersey fabric keeps the relaxed fit from looking boxy. (And it half-tucks well.) Several colors available, sizes XX-Small to 3X.
Linen knits can be another way to enjoy the comfort and breathability of linen without the wrinkles. This striped elbow sleeve tee is available in X-Small to X-Large, Plus HERE.
More women’s linen tops
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Linen works so well for me here, in TX. Although, we are having up and down (and cold!) weather. I feel compelled to also share this top that I recently found at Macy’s, it’s a beautiful subtle, contemporary print.
Not 100% linen, but still. The online photos don’t do it justice, I’m afraid. https://www.macys.com/shop/product/bardot-printed-button-front-balloon-sleeve-top?ID=13295661&CategoryID=255&isDlp=true
Hi. That looks like a really cute top, but is it cropped or really 26 inches?
I love linen and wear it a lot in summer. Last year Chico’s had some nice linen tees at a reasonable price. I would jump on the green shirt from J Jill but I’m 5’3″ and even the petite is like a tunic on me. The look of a long shirt over a cami is nice but I don’t want the extra layer in the summer. I’m on the lookout for more tees or a camp shirt in my colors at a reasonable price. I’m an autumn and giving up white was as difficult as giving up black. Really limits the selection of summer tops.
I buy mostly natural fibers, so, I do love linen! I did my seasonal closet swap over the weekend. I was aghast at how much clothing I had! Blouses I forgot I bought, jackets (16 spring weight!) some still with tags. In my climate we go from frigid to hot seemingly overnight. The fine gauge knits and medium weight pieces just don’t get worn much.
I love my linen-blend pants and shirts for late spring and summer. Last year I bought a linen T-shirt, but I haven’t worn it much. It’s scratchy. Are all linen T-shirts like this? Should I try again?
Usually linen knits will soften up after being worn and washed. You can also try steaming after washing to soften.
Thank you, Susan, for the helpful suggestions.
I love linen, especially here in MS where it gets downright scalding in the summer! This is a bit off topic however, I was wondering what your take is on traveling to Europe now that there is war there. I’m asking because I’m trying to plan a trip to somewhere, but we are stuck on this. We would like to go to Denmark but think that is way to close for comfort. What is your view?
Hi Eva, while the war in Ukraine is upsetting and tragic, I don’t think it poses a substantial safety concern for travel to western Europe at this time.
Thanks for your input.
What a great compilation of linen shirts with sleeves — thank you!
For those readers asking you for travel advice related to Ukraine, I suggest the Department of State’s official travel site:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/
Sign up for travel advisories and keep abreast of COVID, war, and terrorist activities.
PS. Thank you for the needed reminder to get off my rear and order linen shirts today! You are so right when you say this:
>>Spring is the best time to shop for linen shirts and tops, especially if you’re looking for shirts with sleeves. (Once we get closer to summer, I notice that styles get more bare and beachy.)
Susan, out of curiosity, as a petite have you tried on the EF linen jersey tees that are in misses sizes? I love the fabric but had to return the s/s tee I’d ordered online because the shoulders and sleeves fit me terribly (5’3). I wish EF made more in petites and I’d love to find some well fitting, non-sheer, linen jersey s/s tees (from any brand)!