When temperatures are high, the thought of donning a pair of jeans is enough to make anyone feel hot and uncomfortable. Shorts can be a great option for summertime, but they’re not to everyone’s liking, especially if you prefer a more covered-up look on the bottom half.
Linen pants are breathable, versatile and unlike synthetic fabrics (which tend to trap heat), linen is great for keeping the body feeling and looking cool as the coolest cucumber on those hot, humid days.
You may have a pair already stowed away in your closet (if not, we highly recommend browsing the range at Quince, including gorgeous dresses and overalls). If you’re unsure what to wear them with, no sweat: this is all you need to know.
Office Appropriate
When AC just isn’t enough, a pair of linen pants paired with a blazer in the same fabric will see you right. While we all love a good co-ord, contrasting (rather than matching) pieces still look put-together. Simply add a tee in black or white to ground the look and slip on a pair of loafers.
Dressed Up
When it’s time to clock out, swap your work shoes for a pair of sandals or ballet flats, or a block or platform heel, if you prefer a little more height. Dress up a plain tee with a delicate metallic necklace, and add a lip stain for polish. Hey presto: your day to night look, in a matter of minutes.
All the Right Buttons
For a breezy, simple outfit, style your button-down (a light, slightly oversized version is best) with linen pants, but add your own finishing touch: a well-rolled sleeve, an expertly executed half-tuck of the shirt hem, or even tying it into a crop top adds an unexpected twist to an otherwise simple outfit. Wear with sandals or slip-ons, and add a woven bag for textural contrast.
On the Beach
We tend to think of coastal coverups as being one of two categories: kaftan-style tops, or sarongs. If you’re not keen on either, there is a third option: pairing your linen pants with a two-piece is handy for dressing in a flash. Wearing them over a body-suit style one-piece is next-level, taking you from the beach to the bar, restaurant, or wherever you’re headed next.
Act Casual
Whether you’re lounging at home, picnicking at the park or just running a few errands, adding sneakers (flatforms if they’re a little longer in the leg) to your linen pants takes the guesswork out of weekend dressing. Wear a tank top or a graphic tee, and throw on a light cardigan for cooler evenings.
Styling
Finally, a word on care and styling. Linen is notorious for creasing, and there are ways to tackle this (including hanging items out to dry so the worst of the wrinkles drop out, but we say just go with it: overly stiff linen can look too stuffy.
As for style, a loose fit will keep you cooler than any other. For color, a neutral go-with-anything tone will work with most items you already wear, but if you’re attending a kid’s birthday (or sitting on the grass), you might want to avoid lighter shades in favor of black or navy.
