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Fashion

6 Breathable Linen Dresses That Will Keep You Cool All Year

You'll never want to take them off.

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Linen is often associated with warmer weather. When you travel to hotter climates, you’ll find all the locals are wearing linen dresses, shorts, tops, and hats, and it’s simply because it keeps you cool!

Why does linen keep you cool?

Linen fabric is designed specifically to keep you cool by allowing more airflow between the fibers. Linen is also a good absorbent and conductor of heat. The molecular structure allows the fabric to absorb up to a fifth of its weight in moisture before getting the damp spots as you would regular fabric. But before it gets to that point, the linen will evaporate the moisture.

Simply put, linen is cool to the touch, and will remove any sweat perspiration from the surface of your body.

These cooling linen dresses look great on all body types, and, with the right accessories, can be worn long after summer.

Cloth & Stone Frayed Linen Midi Dress

linen dresses

$148.00, Anthropologie

Features:

  • Frayed trim
  • V-neck
  • Attached belt
  • Shirred back detail
  • Side slant pockets
  • Midi silhouette

Designed with a classic silhouette, this frayed linen midi dress is the perfect outfit this summer. The fabric will keep you cool, and the unique texture and hints of color add a touch of personality.

One reviewer wrote: “I LOVE this dress! It’s linen so it breathes well, it’s true to size (I wear large) and the color is dreamy! Anthro — please make this in more colors and sizes! Do not miss out on this! I’m petite (5’0) so, it comes to just above my ankles. The high slit and cut is very flattering!”

Linen Midi Dress

linen dresses

$482, Nordstrom

Features:

  • Hidden-button half-placket
  • Jewel neck
  • Elbow-length sleeves
  • Drawstring waist
  • Side-seam pockets

This pleasant summery dress features a drawstring waist to provide a comfortable fit and side-seam pockets for practically. Bright yellow color and crafted from fine linen, this flowy dress falls naturally on your body, allowing you to breathe on those warmer summer days.

Button-Front Linen Shirtdress

linen dresses

$29.99 – $39.99, WomanWithin

Features:

  • Shirt collar
  • Button front
  • Self-tie belt 
  • 48” length

Take the heat off of your collar with this button-up linen dress. With a relaxed, yet sophisticated shape plus waistband to for more depth to the already intriguing pattern.

One reviewer wrote: “So cool, comfortable, flattering and soft. Hard to find natural fabric at this price point. Receive compliments all the time. I wash in cool water and hang dry. It is easy to care and ready to go! A winner that I am ordering more!”

Jessica London – Linen Fit & Flare Dress

linen dresses

$44.99 – $66.99, WomanWithin

Features:

  • 48″ length
  • Linen/rayon
  • Sizes run small

Lightweight, stylish, and comfortable, this dress has multiple prints and colors to choose from, many of which are perfect for picnics and garden parties. The midi silhouette works for every body shape.

One reviewer wrote: “I am a linen fabric lover. I have purchased three linen dresses. They are very comfortable and flattering. I get so many compliments. Very colorful.”

Striped Linen Faux-Wrap Dress By Ellos®

linen dresses

$44.90, WomanWithin

Features:

  • Fit & flare silhouette
  • Faux wrap surplice neckline
  • Self-tie & hidden zipper on wearers left side
  • Seam at waist w/ elastic in backside
  • Fully lined

The striped-linen faux wrap dress has a timeless design that will work for all seasons. The fit-and-flare silhouette hugs your top while the free-slowing skirt sways with the breeze.

TOMMY BAHAMA- Porte Fino Sleeveless Linen-Blend Shift Dress

linen dresses

$135.00 Nordstrom

Features:

  • Back keyhole button-loop closure
  • Jewel neck
  • Sleeveless
  • 100% cotton lining
  • 87% linen, 12% viscose, 1% Lurex® metallic fibers

This classic white linen dress ends at the knee and features a jewel-shaped neckline. This dress comes with a cotton lining, so you can rock the breathable frock without worrying about over-exposure.

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