White linen dresses that’ll make life breezy this summer.

White Linen Dresses

Linen with its breathable, soft, moisture-wicking traits, is an ideal warm-weather fabric choice. (Not to mention it feels cool as hell, particularly on sun-scorched skin.) The textile works especially well on dresses in the summer, when easy, non-fussy clothing is key. Throw the color white into the mix (crisp, clean, simple, and again, easy) and you’ve got the makings of one of our favorite summer looks: the white linen dress. Not only does it work for virtually every activity you’ve got planned this season — from backyard family functions to post-work martinis in the city — it’s an excellent piece to take on vacation. Incorporating a few different versions of the white linen dress into your wardrobe will make your life a million times easier. (Imagine not stressfully ruminating over which outfits to pack and instead throwing in a few white linen dresses, a straw hat, a couple sandals and calling it a day? Game-changer.)

Below are 14 white linen dresses that should be on your radar this summer. From sleek and sexy to breezy and casual, there’s something for every mood — and vacation. 

OUR TOP PICKS

1.

Zimmermann Scallop-Trim White Linen Midi Dress

Shop Now at Saks Fifth Avenue

The scalloped trim lends this ivory number a polished femininity, but it’s the subtly sexy corset detailing on the back that stole our hearts. We like this with a flat sandal and a straw bucket bag for a sunny stroll through a seaside town in Italy.

2.

L’Agence Bella Linen Shirtdress

Shop Now at Saks Fifth Avenue

This white linen shirtdress features three-quarter-length sleeves and a flattering tie-waist, making it less Risky Business and more “something chic and easy to throw on over my swimsuit before dinner.” Adding a statement necklace to the mix would really up the ante here. 

3.

J.Crew One Shoulder White Linen Shift Dress

Shop Now at J.Crew

When the occasion calls for something a bit dressier (or the evening calls for a little dancing) this one-shoulder shift dress will do the trick—and in breezy linen, at that! The bow detail on the shoulder is especially lovely, and the short hem will make you want to break out your favorite strappy, heeled sandal to show off your sunkissed gams.

RELATED: One Shoulder Swimsuit for a Perfect Vacation

4.

Hansen + Gretel Roberta White Linen Dress

Shop Now at Saks Fifth Avenue

Now this is a maxi dress that’ll truly take you from day to night. The gradual flared silhouette makes it fitting for island-hopping or sipping poolside cocktails, while the fitted bust works for dinner somewhere more a bit more upscale than your requisite sand-on-the-floor beach shack.

5.

Sleeper Atlanta Off-The-Shoulder Linen Midi Dress

Shop Now at Net-a-Porter

This is really a two-for-one: The airy, voluminous sleeves can be worn over your shoulders or off, depending on your mood (or accessories). We love that the silhouette is flowy and relaxed, while the fitted bodice adds a little kiss of romance. A straw tote and punchy earrings would complete the look, though with this one, the world is your oyster.

6.

H&M Linen-Blend White Shirt Linen Dress

Shop Now at H&M

A chic twist on the standard shirtdress, this number is also a little feminine (thanks to the wrap tie at the waist), a little sexy (there’s a bit of slit), and supremely comfy. Dress it up with a colorful sandal or fun bag—ideally both—or go super casual with easy, neutral accessories for a minimalist vibe.

7.

Maia Bergman Basel White Linen Dress

Shop Now at Madewell

When you envision yourself strolling leisurely through the coastal villages along the Amalfi Coast—partner in tow, aperitivo imminent—you likely picture yourself in this dress. (Or something similar to it.) Between the lace detailing around the waist, the sweet-but-not-too-sweet ruffles on the sleeves, and the plunging V-neck, it’s both romantic and sexy.

8.

Everlane The White Linen Apron Dress

Shop Now at Everlane

An A-line hem that hits just above the knee prevents this otherwise simple dress from veering into ‘frumpy’ territory. We love the adjustable straps, too, but the deep pockets make it a true winner. At $78, this is one you’re going to want to add to cart ASAP. 

9.

Madewell Fresca Fruit Embroidered Cami Midi Dress

Shop Now at Madewell

A beach vacation at a family-friendly resort requires easy, comfy pieces that don’t require much effort (or any at all), and this relaxed white linen dress—with pockets!—checks those boxes and more. The fruit embroidery feels playful but not childish, and the peekaboo back is a cool touch.

10.

Ralph Lauren Collection Brigitta Tie-Knot Strapless Linen Voile Gown

Shop Now at Neiman Marcus

Yes, it’s a splurge. Yes, it’ll make you feel like a statuesque goddess. Yes, it’ll look just as chic worn with a flat sandal and little-to-no accessories as it will with a killer bag and even killer heels. If you’ve got a lavish summer soiree looming, congratulations—you’ve found your perfect white linen dress.

11.

& Other Stories White Linen Wrap Midi Dress

Shop Now at & Other Stories

The white linen dress is universally flattering and timelessly chic, and when you add white linen to the equation, you’ve got style and comfort. On especially humid days that call for lots of wandering (read: shopping), this’ll keep you light, cool, and trendy, especially with a pair of luxe sunnies and your favorite bag.

12.

Cult Gaia Orella White Halter Midi Linen Dress

Shop Now at Bergdorf Goodman

There’s just something about a halter dress. We love the geometric cut outs of this number; the gold metal prong adds even more of an artistic element. With a sexy open back and a playful, pleated silhouette, you’ll want to reach for this white linen dress when the night calls for dancing.

13.

Le Kasha Mawta Crocheted White Linen Midi Dress

Shop Now at Net-a-Porter

There’s something bohemian and effortlessly cool about crocheted pieces, and this form-fitting midi, made of organic linen, strikes just the right balance of free-spirited and polished. Wear a little slip dress underneath for a slinky, dinner-ready feel, or opt for a bra (or bikini top) and high-waisted bottoms and use it as an upgraded coverup. 

14.

Posse Mila Linen One Shoulder Mini Dress

Shop Now at Moda Operandi

Ruffles can be a bit tricky in that they can sometimes appear childish or silly. But done properly, as they are here, and they add welcome excitement to an otherwise basic white linen mini dress. The off-the-shoulder silhouette makes this piece the ideal canvas for chunky gold jewelry and an interesting heel.

Pro Tip

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Quality linen requires some TLC to keep it in prime condition. Ideally, hand wash your white linen dress in cool or lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Avoid the dryer and hang dry instead.

Though white linen has recently been lumped in with the dowdy ‘coastal grandmother’ trope taking TikTok by storm (thanks, Gen Z) and may occasionally conjure up unsexy visions of your mother-in-law’s tablecloth, the white linen dress has nonetheless prevailed as a summer wardrobe staple. Various iterations of it will remain firmly in our grasp until Labor Day — and probably long after that, too, because who likes to follow silly rules? White linen dresses don’t have to be boring, so seek out interesting silhouettes and  unique details that’ll make yours stand out this summer.

RELATED: 16 Summer Ready Linen Dresses To Keep You Cool

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