15 Best Linen Dresses for When It’s Too Hot for Anything Else

If you, like most of us, still need to hoof it into your place of employment, this wonderfully draped mid-length silhouette is an excellent compromise between traditional workwear and the hot pants and tank top you want to be wearing. For more conservative settings, consider pairing it with platform loafers or black pumps; casual settings call for strappy sandals or cute mules.

• Sizes: XS–XXL
• Colors: 1 option

A cinched-in, corset-like waistline, subtle pleat details on the skirt, a fiery red color—this linen maxi dress has all the makings of a look that your dinner or drinks companions won’t soon forget. According to reviewers, the fit runs a bit large, so if you’re on the fence between two sizes, go for the smaller one.

• Sizes: 0–12
• Colors: 3 options

Inherently a bit crinkled and waistband-free, this roomy, breathable linen shirtdress with short sleeves is ideal for scenarios in which you’ll be sitting for long periods of time (like being in a car or on a plane). Once you arrive, feel free to shove it into a beach bag to throw over a swimsuit.

• Sizes: XXS–XXL
• Colors: 4 options

Yes, yes, of course all linen dresses are inherently well-suited for summer days. However, between the gingham print and short hemline on this one, it basically looks like it was made with barbecues and pool parties in mind. To really see through its Allie Hamilton in The Notebook potential, pair it with ruby lipstick and white Keds.

• Sizes: XS–4X
• Colors: 6 options

At its core this one is just a really well-cut, fit-and-flare minidress, but what sets it apart are all the unexpected touches: an asymmetrical neckline, dramatic sleeves, an oversized bow that hangs down the back. And since everyone knows the best part of weddings is dancing to guilty pleasure songs, its short, swishy skirt and stretchy back panel are its best features.

• Sizes: UK 4–16
• Colors: 1 option

There’s no better moment to swap your dainty and delicate spring garden prints for something a little bolder than when cookout and block party season starts to heat up. The hot house floral motif on this sleeveless linen minidress, in particular, is basically begging to be worn to some sort of outdoor socializing situation (although the look would work equally well with sneaks on any old day that’s way too warm for pants). Keep in mind, however, that reviewers report it being slightly roomy around the chest—the straps are not adjustable—so depending on your body type, you may want to go with a smaller size or invest in minor tailoring.

• Sizes: 00–16
• Colors: 1 option

Between the flirty, just off-the-shoulder sleeves and thigh-skimming length, this bubblegum beauty is such a fun (and easy) thing to toss on when you want to look fabulous but still feel free enough to dance and run around all night. Better yet, because this one has a micro hemline, you can wear it with flat sandals or sneakers and still cut a very long, leggy silhouette.

• Sizes: 0–12
• Colors: 2 options

The flowy fit and open back of this linen maxi make it a no-brainer addition to one’s summer wardrobe. Choosing between the colors, however, is a different story. While the black and white, of course, are timeless picks—and the floral pattern feels right for a wedding—we’re quite partial to light yellow, if only for its big Andie Anderson energy.

• Sizes: 0–12
• Colors: 4 options

Dead set on covering up in boiling heat? Linen clothing is definitely the answer—especially if the item in question is covered in colorful, beach-ready stripes that could’ve been lifted from a Slim Aarons image. Despite its very covered-up look, this V-neck design has so much breathability, and is a smart way to add an extra layer of protection from the sun if you’re going to be outside for long periods (a giant sun hat wouldn’t hurt either).

• Sizes: 0, 4–12
• Colors: 3 options

If Kendall and Kylie Jenner’s European vacation wardrobe is something that jives with your style, consider this romantic ruched bodice midi-length design from Anthropologie. Really, it doesn’t require much more than ankle wrap sandals and a bold lip, but bonus points if you layer in some gold jewelry as well.

• Sizes: XS–XL
• Colors: 2 options

Imagine waking up on one of those sticky, humid July mornings when it’s barely 9 a.m. and you’re already starting to sweat—that’s exactly when you reach for this breezy, tiered number, which will float around your body to keep you as cool as possible. In short: It’s one of those summer dresses you’ll be so grateful to have on hand for the next scorcher because on days like that, who has the energy (or will) to put thought into getting dressed?

• Sizes: XS–XL
• Colors: 2 options

While this one is just a universally lovely look on anyone, in any color, the white option is an especially apt choice for brides-to-be. Scoop one up if you need something for your bridal shower or rehearsal dinner (or both—we love an outfit repeat!) and feel good about the fact that it’s understated and timeless enough to wear after the wedding as well.

• Sizes: 00–24
• Colors: 3 options

Here’s a cute number beloved by Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle who wore it on her trip to Ecuador. “The heat in the Amazon is humid, so I knew I need to pack all my most breathable clothing. This tan dress was perfect for vacation pictures and comfortable enough to wear all day. One thing to note is that the front square neck tends to go down.”

• Sizes: 2XS–XL
• Colors: 2 options