Linen Lovely
Linen is not only a cool choice for hot days, but it can be a sustainable choice, too.
Linen is a luxurious fabric and wearing it can make you feel like you’re swanning around St Tropez, going to parties on private yachts. Of course, some people don’t like the fact that it looks creased but that’s the nature of the fabric. One thing we all like is the fact that it is more planet-friendly than cotton. In production it takes far less water and requires less fertiliser and pesticides. Flax, the plant it’s made from, is used for other by-products too (linseed and flaxseed oils) so nothing gets wasted and it can be grown in poor soil.To be absolutely sure no harmful pesticides have been used in the production you can check that the garment you are buying is certified organic. Look for the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certificate, or that the brand states where the linen is produced. European linen has to adhere to sustainability guidelines. Linen is good value for money as it’s hard wearing – the ancient Egyptians knew this as they used it for mummification!
SHIRT CUT
In a cotton/linen mix, the cut on this shirt is oversized, so it’s sure to keep you cool when the heat is on. Wear with white jeans or linen trousers.
Linen shirt, £17.99, hm. com
TOP CHOICE
This classic style has Masters of Linen Certification which guarantees it has been responsibly-produced. It works well under jackets. Sleeveless top, £135, agnesb.co.uk
WEDGE WONDERS
Natural rope wedge espadrilles are the perfect pairing with linen, and what’s more, wedges are comfortable and easy to wear. Carina 60 Castaner espadrilles, £85, net-a-porter.com
EVENING COVER-UP
A pretty scarf is a summer essential for beach days and for covering up and adding a stylish light layer on an evening out.
Linen-rich fine stripe scarf, £49, whitecompany.com
DAISY CHAIN
Pick out one of the colours in a linen top or dress with these bold, fun statement earrings.
Orange daisy chain earrings, £55, toolally.com
TERRIFIC TUNIC
From White Stuff’s linen shop, this 100 % linen tunic is a breezy summer’s day essential. Wear it to the beach over a swimsuit, with flip-flops or with cropped trousers for day or evening.
Sunny Harper tunic, £59, whitestuff.com
DRESSED UP
Wear this shirtdress with flat sandals and basket or dress it up for evening with heels and a clutch. The linen/viscose mix fabric means it drapes beautifully. Shirtdress, £42, next.co.uk
STRIPEY STYLE
A summer must-have, this button through skirt is midi length and so easy to wear. Great with a white T-shirt and slides or try it with a shirt, a tan belt and strappy flat sandals. It’s in a cotton/linen mix.
Linen striped A-line midi, £35, marksand spencer.com
COOL TREWS
Made from 100% European linen, these classic tie waist trousers can be worn casually or smartened up. The wide leg and length means they are flattering and you can add length by wearing them with wedge heels such as espadrilles.
Sustain Laura print blouse, £65, Jacqui linen trousers, £85, and sandals, £69, hobbs.com