Cool & Easy Summer Style: Linen Pants and Striped Cotton Shirt Outfit
It can be a challenge to feel crisp and neat in summer heat. I’m a fan of linen for its cooling breathability, but yes, it will look a bit rumpled after a few hours. To offset that “wilted” look, I’ve paired these favorite linen pants with an easy, striped cotton shirt for structure and crispness.
I’ve been shopping my summer closet and playing with some new combos. I picked up this shirt a few weeks ago, but this is its “debut” here. It’s available in sizes 00-24. I’m wearing size 6, and could probably have sized down one size. I think this red is pretty neutral, so could probably work for most seasonal palettes.
This striped shirt also looks great with blue jeans. Though to keep from looking like a flag, I like to add some camel or brown accessories. For those of us who are petite, cropped styles like this are a boon, but I know they’re not for everyone, so here are a few more striped shirts to add some polish to your summer looks (without the swelter).
Summer Stripes for the Dog Days…
👉Style tips: 100% cotton fabric will be most breathable. A relaxed or slightly oversized fit in lightweight fabric with a crisp structure that stands away from the body will allow for maximum air flow. Pushing or rolling up the sleeves will also keep you cooler as well as adding structure (unless you’re in the sun and wanting some coverage).
A striped shirt can also be a vehicle to add some color in a more subtle way. If that’s your goal, look for thinner stripes, or a lower contrast combo (like the Alex Mill shirt shown above).
What do you like to wear to keep cool and look neat in the heat?
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I love this look, Susan! Everything about it, the sandals, jewelry, shirt, and pants. This is inspiration for me for next spring in southwest Florida. The cropped shirt is perfect and works so well for us petites.
I love to wear short (knee length) A-line dresses, in linen…with a linen slip underneath…the 2 layers of linen is very cooling…and the slip makes for a layer to collect wrinkles…I have used a ‘slip dress’ from Amazon as my ‘slip’, but I’m tempted to make one from a lighter linen…RTW dresses that are ‘mini’ are usually perfect for my petite but leggy frame.
Though not a fan of linen due to its wrinkling properties, have found fabric in it that has a pattern or is dark in color is helpful in disguising them. Whereas, do like cotton (and their blends) as most offer an elevated look (comes in a wider selection) and requires little if any maintenance (ironing or steaming).
-Brenda-
Very breezy material and a one particular big and long dress with slippers.
Like your outfit.
Greetje
Linen pants and linen or cotton shirts & t-shirts, definitely my summer uniform in SC! I have shorts and crop pants, too, in cotton, but linen is best! Downy Wrinkle Releaser is a game changer, spraying your linen in the evening or morning before wearing really does help! Long or short dresses are fun, too, which I pair with cotton/lycra gym bike short underneath.
Your picks are always the best for inspiration! I love the shorter cut on the red and white shirt, which would transition beautifully with sweaters! Thanks always for your brilliant inspirations!
Love the red and white stripe cropped shirt with your linen trousers. You look terrific wearing a little color!
I’m a true jeans girl and suffered through previous summers in jeans. This year I tried a new silhouette. I bought six pairs of cotton pants in a loose, pull on style. Nothing too baggy, I’m petite, but a looser cut than I’m used too. I paired the pants with slim fitting cotton tank tops. I wasn’t sure I could get away with a tank. It’s all in the fit, like the pants. Birkenstocks instead of closed shoes. To sum up, looser, barer, natural fibers.
I am going to Greece in September on a pilgrimage with my church. . Have you ever been? Wondering if you have a capsule wardrobe for a trip like that? It will include three days on a boat cruise to Turkey. Thank you.
Hi Jeanne, I have not yet visited Greece, but it’s on my list! You can check out all of my fall capsule wardrobe ideas here: Fall Travel Wardrobe Ideas