Men's linen shirts often get a bad rap, and for good reason. They can be ill-fitting, billowing garments that are far from flattering. The linen shirt is often an afterthought, the default ‘summer’ shirt that’s worn simply because of the lightweight, breathable fabric it’s made from.
But the linen shirt deserves so much more than this, and thankfully, a handful of brands are giving it the attention it deserves. Men's linen shirts are being produced in all manner of interesting cuts and shapes, and, as ever, they remain a great option as the weather heats up. Scroll on for our pick of the best linen shirts for men, plus a few helpful styling notes.
Why you need a linen shirt
Made from the fibres of the flax plant, linen has always been popular because of its natural breathable and moisture-wicking properties. It’s an ideal fabric for wearing in spring and summer as it won’t weigh you down and will keep you from overheating, unlike more traditional shirting fabrics such as poplin or Oxford cloth.
Linen also happens to be a planet-friendly alternative to cotton, as it requires a whole lot less water to produce and its durability means it will stand the test of time. Well cared for, linen should last you a lifetime. And it will only get better with age.
How to wear a linen shirt
Shake off connotations of baggy-shirted holidaymakers and look out for linen shirts with slimmer, more tailored fits, which will allow for the natural stretch of the fabric while flattering the wearer. The beauty of the linen shirt is its inherent versatility: it will serve you just as well on a sun-drenched holiday – teamed with swim shorts and espadrilles – as it will in the office, as part of a more polished look with matching linen trousers and loafers. If you're going down the casual route, embrace linen's natural creases in all their glory – they'll enhance the laid-back aesthetic you're after. For those more formal occasions, you might want to consider a cotton or Tencel blend, which will be less prone to creasing.
For a twist on the classic linen shirt, keep an eye out for retro-style Cuban collars, linen overshirts and functional pocket detailing that will inject your outfit with a workwear-style edge.
Best men's linen shirts to buy in 2024
There's a lot to love about linen shirts. Check out the best men's linen shirts on our radar right now.
CDLP
Discover the Patch Pocket Jacket in Off White by CDLP – a blend of comfort and style. Crafted with a relaxed, straight cut, it features a hidden five-button front closure, two patch pockets, and adjustable cuffs. Tailored from a linen and Tencel™ Lyocell blend, it offers breathability and a luxurious drape. Made in Portugal, it epitomizes modern sophistication.
Ripa Ripa
Inspired by Gianni Agnelli's 1960s summers in Capri, the Ripa Ripa Camicia Capri Righe Rosse is a vintage-cut linen shirt. This half-way cross between a polo and a shirt is perfect for seaside days. Made of 100% Italian linen, it becomes softer with wear. Handmade in Napoli, it features a polo shirt neck "alla francese" and a regular fit.
Billy Reid
The Billy Reid Short Sleeve Linen Tuscumbia Shirt is the epitome of lived-in luxury. Crafted from garment-dyed, lightweight linen, it features a button-down collar, signature notch pocket, and genuine mother-of-pearl buttons. With a standard fit and box-pleated body, it's thoughtfully finished with an heirloom ribbon under the placket.
The Resort Co
Crisp linen shirts abound at The Resort Co, the Stockholm-based label that specialises in sustainable, enduring vacation wear made from the finest materials in Portugal, Italy, and Spain. From resort shirts, overshirts and jersey shirts, they have just about every style to suit your every need.
Besnard
The Besnard Olive Linen Button Down Shirt is a summer wardrobe essential. Made from soft, breathable linen, it ensures cool comfort on warm days. This dark olive shirt complements various trousers, featuring a soft button-down collar, placket front, box pleat, and chest pocket. Handmade in Italy with traditional techniques and mother-of-pearl buttons.
Vilebrequin
The Vilebrequin Pyramid Polo Shirt is ideal for hot days with its lightweight linen jersey fabric. It combines a simple, straight cut with short sleeves, a buttonless placket, and two back eyelets. The tone-on-tone embroidered turtle adds a subtle touch of elegance, making it perfect for casual sophistication.
M'Essentiel London
Introducing the White Linen Jacket Elevato from M'Essentiel London: Tailored in exquisite white Italian linen, it epitomizes timeless elegance suitable for any occasion. With a modern yet refined style, this jacket is versatile for year-round wear. Sourced from Lombardy, Italy, and meticulously handmade by artisans in London, it exudes unparalleled craftsmanship and sophistication.
Velasca
Velasca is perhaps best known for its meticulously made footwear, but the Italian label has recently turned its hand to to apparel, and it's safe to say we're very much on board with the offering. Top of our wish list is this elegant linen shirt. Made in Italy using French linen, it features mother of pearl buttons and a soft collar. Style with Bermuda shorts and espadrilles.
LESTRANGE
London-based label LESTRANGE presents a linen shirt that's perfect for year-round wear, not just the summertime. The secret? They've combined the easygoing properties of linen and injected organic cotton to give the fabric added softness and crease resistance. Plus, a hint of added stretch increases ease of movement. Choose from four versatile hues.
ASKET
ASKET prides itself on producing a capsule wardrobe of garments that are both easy to wear and made to last. Its linen shirt ticks both those boxes. Cut with a tailored fit and boasting a button-down collar and rear box pleat, it features a relatively short hem, which allows it to be worn untucked – the ideal way to wear a linen shirt.
Luca Faloni
When it comes to beautifully made menswear staples, Luca Faloni is a no-brainer. The 'Made in Italy' label has mastered classic garments like the linen shirt. Its grandad collar version is made in Northern Italy from the finest Italian linen and features a casual band polo collar and a relaxed fit. Choose from a range of subtle colours and pair with chino shorts and espadrilles or throw on a linen blazer for more formal occasions.
Artknit Studios
Occupying the space between a shirt and a cardigan, this lightweight knit from Artknit Studios is made from a blend of linen and organic cotton, which gives it an unparalleled softness. In typical Artknit fashion, it's sustainably made and fully traceable, so you can feel good about your purchase. Wear it unbuttoned over a plain white tee for an effortless weekend look.
Aurélien
Made from breathable and super-soft linen, this long-sleeved shirt from Aurélien is a luxurious warm weather addition that you won't be able to get enough of. With a tailored fit and spread collar, it makes for a sophisticated option that will look great with tailored trousers and dress shoes at an elegant evening soirée.
Polo Ralph Lauren
The Polo Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Cotton-Linen Camp Shirt offers a fuller cut through the chest, waist, and sleeves, ensuring comfort. Featuring a camp collar, buttoned placket, short sleeves, and a left chest patch pocket, it’s crafted from a cotton-linen blend. The pleated back yoke and signature embroidered Pony complete this timeless piece.
Massimo Dutti
The Massimo Dutti Regular Fit Linen Shirt combines classic style with comfort. Made from 100% linen, it offers more room in the torso and arms for a relaxed fit. Featuring button fastening and buttoned cuffs, this shirt is a versatile addition to any wardrobe, perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
Club Monaco
The Club Monaco Short Sleeve Slim Linen Shirt is designed for rising temperatures. Crafted from breathable linen, it offers a slim fit with a 29" length. Featuring a button-down point collar, chest pocket, and short sleeves, this versatile shirt is perfect for a sophisticated yet casual look.
Frescobol Carioca
The Frescobol Carioca Angelo Linen Shirt offers a relaxed approach to summer style. Cut from fine Italian linen, it features a classic camp collar and short sleeves. This smart-casual shirt is perfect for effortless comfort and sophistication, ideal for any warm-weather occasion.
Loro Piana
The Loro Piana Elia Shirt, designed for warm weather, features a relaxed grandad collar and is made in Italy from a light, breathable linen and silk blend. Patterned with neutral-toned stripes, it’s perfect for pairing with Bermuda shorts and sandals, ensuring both style and comfort.
For more shirting styles, read our ultimate guide to men's shirts.
For the ideal footwear to pair with linen shirts, check out our guide to minimalist sneakers.
