The 12 Best Linen Shorts to Keep in Your Rotation This Summer
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Summer is almost here (hooray!) and with the change of seasons comes a change of wardrobe. It’s time to pack away your warmest coats and boots and make room in your closet for maxi dresses, skirts and, of course, all the shorts. After all, they're the ultimate warm-weather staple, and come in as many styles and fabrics as you can imagine. And while everyone enjoys the athleisure aesthetic of bike shorts, or the laid-back look of jean shorts, nothing beats the easy, breezy feel of linen, especially when the temps are verging on scorching. The best linen shorts supply a classy-yet-casual vibe that works for beach days, barbecues and even the office—all it takes is some smart styling, and the timeless staples really can take you anywhere. If you’re in need of a new pair or three, you’ve come to the right place. Read on for the 12 best pairs of linen shorts for women that you’ll want to don all summer long.
How I Chose the Best Linen Shorts
Linen shorts are available in a wide range of options, so I looked to some of PureWow editors’ (and readers’) favorite brands for everyday basics, office-appropriate attire and vacay-ready looks for their summer shorts offerings. I also made sure to include a variety of price points, fits and lengths, so no shopper would be left behind. When looking for linen shorts, I found it important to consider the specific fabric blends as well; 100 percent linen is light and crisp, but won’t have a lot of stretch (which is why many linen shorts are designed with elastic waists), while linen-blend fabrics tend to have more give. That being said, I included more tailored options as well, so you’ll be able to wear many of the shorts featured below well beyond the beach. Linen is also prone to wrinkling, so make sure you’re prepared to steam or iron your shorts prior to wear.
The Best Linen Shorts at a Glance:
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1. J.Crew Remi Shorts
Dubbed "the perfect linen shorts" by a slew of shoppers, this best-selling pair from J.Crew checks all the boxes. They're made from a sturdy-yet-lightweight blend of linen and Sorona (a plant-based fabric), and feature pleating details and cuffs that give them a perfectly tailored look. Thanks to their high waist and 4-inch inseam, they cut an elegant silhouette that can easily be dressed up or down. They get rave reviews across the board, but reviewers do note that they run somewhat large, so you might want to size down for a slimmer fit.
2. Universal Thread High-Rise Shorts
Target never lets us down. Currently on sale for less than $20, this linen-blend style from the retailer offers a super affordable take on the boxer shorts trend, from their notched hems to their fun striped and floral patterns. The shorts feature an elastic waist with a drawstring, so comfort is a given, but some reviewers note that they loosen up with wear, so keep that in mind when choosing your size.
3. Athleta Linen Retreat Mid-Rise Shorts
If you’re scrolling past Athleta’s non-workout wear, you’re missing out. These 100 percent linen shorts are designed to feel as comfy and breathable as your favorite running shorts, but are beautifully constructed (hello, zipper side pockets), and certainly sleek enough to wear to brunch. I love the hot pink for a pop of summer color, but since multiple reviewers mentioned buying more than one pair of these sporty beauties, you also might want to stock up on 'em in all the hues.
4. LNX Ruffle Flowy Shorts
The flirty ruffle hem on these linen/cotton shorts sets them apart from the sea of styles on the market, and also makes them just a bit more formal than your average drawstring pair. They are on the longer side (17 to 20 inches depending on the size) without being frumpy, so they’re the perfect upgrade to your everyday casual look. The best part? They have pockets!
5. Quince European Linen Shorts
Shoppers love Quince pieces for their quality, commitment to sustainability and transparent pricing, and these linen shorts are no exception. Made of 100 percent European flax linen, which the brand says is a more sustainable and less resource-intensive material, they’re not only hypoallergenic and temperature-regulating, but also easy on the environment. Be honest: You can already picture yourself wearing them to every summer barbecue (and using their eco-friendly factor as a conversation starter).
6. Abercrombie & Fitch Eyelet Pull-On Shorts
When you want an effortless summer look that still feels put-together, reach for these shorts—especially in one of the two eyelet versions. Pull-on styling means they won’t feel constricting (even after that third happy hour margarita), and the high rise is both flattering and perfect for styling with your favorite crop top.
7. Maeve The Colette Longline Shorts
Anthro stans (like myself) know that the Collette pants are some of the most flattering out there, so it’s a summer miracle that they now come in a shorts version. The linen-blend fabric includes a hint of elastane, giving it a bit of stretch that enhances the fit wherever it hugs your figure. The longer length is a great option if you don't want to show a lot of skin, while the wide-leg silhouette and large patch pockets make them look particularly hip.
8. Everlane The Linen Way-High Drape Shorts
Who says you can’t wear shorts to the office? Literally no one after you pop on this suiting-inspired pair. Everlane’s Way-High linen pants ($98; $74) recently received top billing on PureWow's list of the best linen pants, and these shorts follow in their oh-so-polished footsteps. The high-rise waist flows into front pleats for a chic, tailored look, which is made even dressier by the sleek welt pockets at the back. Pair with Everlane’s oversized linen blazer ($178; $134) for an updated take on a summer suit.
9. Automet Two-Piece Set
Matching sets are still the look for summer, and this co-ord look is total perfection. The square-neck top has a slightly cropped silhouette that drapes wonderfully over the high-waisted shorts, which themselves feature pleats and pockets. With over 800 5-star reviews calling this linen/rayon set "super flattering," "comfortable," and "airy,” there's a good chance it'll become your new go-to.
10. Onia Air Boyfriend Short
Linen shorts can sometimes err on the slouchy, casual side, but this tailored version, blended with lightweight lyocell, is sleek enough to wear on a night out. The button front keeps the fit on point, while the rest of the design is simple and chic. Pair with a simple t-shirt for day, and your favorite “going out top” for a girls' night out.
11. Lulus Effortless Instinct Paper Bag Shorts
These may be the most flattering linen-blend shorts I've ever tried. The button front and tie waist create a gorgeous silhouette, and the wider leg opening is breezy and almost skirt-like. These are very fitted at the waist, and don’t have stretch, so check the sizing before ordering for the perfect fit. (Psst: They're on sale right now with code HELLOSUN. You're welcome.)
12. Zimmermann Natura Linen Floral Belted Shorts
If you’re looking to break out of a dress rut for your party looks this summer, look no further than these floral shorts, which are made from 100 percent linen but maintain a gorgeous drapey look thanks to the pleating. They may be pricey, but they’re stunning, and will be perfect for your next event. I love that they’re flared at the hem, giving them movement when you walk (or strut), along with the fact that they come with a matching gold-buckled belt that instantly takes the look up a few notches.
18 Pairs of Linen Pants That Will Keep You Chic and Cool All Summer Long
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