FYI, These Breathable Linen Dresses Will Actually Keep You Cool in a Heatwave

You don’t need me to tell you that this summer has been scorcher. And while usually this is good news (at least for my tan), dressing for the August heat isn’t exactly an easy task. Be it a sweaty work commute or weekend plans you actually want to look good for, getting dressed is tricky AF when you have to think about the thermostat. Howevs, allow us to introduce our secret weapon for staying cool *and* looking stylish: a linen dress.

Linen is known for its comfortable, breathable qualities, making it more than ideal for warm-weather dressing. The only (minor) downside of the natural fabric is its propensity for creasing, making linen trousers an all-around casual look. Luckily, the same does not apply to linen dresses. Opt for a midi silhouette and embellished detailing—when paired with heeled flip flops, it feels dressed up enough for wedding guest territory. Or, simple summer sandals keep the easy, casual wearability linen is known and loved for.

So, no matter where you’re going and for what occasion, there’s a linen dress for you. To help you find the right style, we’ve compiled the best picks to shop right now.

Linen shift dress

If it’s maximum breathability you’re after, look to a linen shift dress. With its simple, straight-cut silhouette that hangs loosely from the shoulders, it offers a relaxed fit that is surprisingly flattering for most body types, especially if you opt for a mini length.

Linen shirt dress

If you prefer a little more coverage, a linen shirt dress is a classic style—and for good reason. With options for sleeve and hem length, I’d go with a design with a coordinating belt or adding your own to cinch you in at your narrowest point and offer a more flattering fit.

Drop-waist linen dress

Drop-waists have been a trending dress silhouette this summer and we’re not mad about it. Despite initial hesitation, I can report a drop-waist is more flattering than you might think. If you’re looking to mix up your summer style, give one of these linen numbers a try!

Linen midi dress

Prefer to stick to something tried and tested? You can’t go wrong with a classic midi dress, like this ASTR the Label style. It’s one of my favorite dress silhouettes thanks to its versatility alone. Quince’s under-$100 corset version, which looks sooo much like another pricey iteration I’ve been eyeing for a while, is another flattering pick.

Open-back linen dress

Bring a little drama to a linen dress with an open-back or back-tie detailing. Whether you opt for A&F’s halter maxi in the perf butter yellow or grab Free People’s easy breezy mini, these styles prove you can dress up a linen dress for a more formal occasion.