7 linen pieces under $50 that’ll keep you looking cool this summer

Thu, May 25, 2023 at 10:02:18 AM EDT

When the weather's at its hottest, linen is your best friend. Made from flax fibers, the breathable natural fabric has the magical (and scientifically proven) ability to pull moisture away from your skin without creating unsightly sweat stains. Linen is also relatively stiff, which means it sits further away from your body than cotton and doesn't stick like synthetics.

Here's some more great news about linen: It's the absolute perfect summer material. Tops, shorts, dresses and jumpers all look amazing in the light, structured fabric. It can also tend to get expensive, but we’ve found seven cool items that all cost less than $50. Keep scrolling for our favorite affordable linen picks.

This chic jumpsuit has a loose and flowy fit that will keep you super comfortable and is still tailored enough that you’ll feel put together. In the back, there's a big horizontal cutout that manages to be flirty and classy at the same time and won't at all get in the way of your ability to wear a bra. And of course, we have to say it — the jumpsuit has pockets! It's available in straight and plus sizes, and it comes in three colors besides this bright blue.

Not sure we’ve ever referred to a dad-style tropical shirt as "adorable" before, but this camp-collared button-up totally fits the bill. It has a boxy, slightly cropped fit that will look great with high-waisted bottoms and a French tuck. The drop shoulders and folded cuffs also help update the throwback look. Wear it when you want a bright, bold statement piece that’ll ensure you’re the center of attention.

When you need to look polished on a scorching hot summer day, this pretty maxi is the way to go. It has a flowing skirt and back cutout to provide maximum airflow and keep you feeling as cool as possible. The gathered fabric in front and buttons down the back add just a hint of sweetness on top, while the long striped skirt keeps it from being overly saccharine.

If shorts aren't really your thing, drapey wide-leg culottes are an absolute must-have for the hottest summer months. These palazzo-style pants have crisp pleating at the top, with a pull-on waist that's way more comfy than it looks. They’re the sort of covetable piece you can wear lounging around the house, into the office and everywhere in between. The pants are available in 11 colors, and realistically we’ll be snagging them in at least four different shades.

A long row of buttons down the front gives this tank a little more substance than the classic cami. It's interesting enough to wear solo but will also look great under a light cardigan or any other open-front top. Get it in this bright chevron print for a statement piece, or opt for the black or white versions if you want something more versatile. Subtle pleating in front and adjustable straps will help give the perfect fit for any body shape.

These relaxed shorts are the perfect bottom for a hot, casual weekend day. They’re super light and breathable, with a cute smocked waist and drawstring rope tie in front. Throw them on when you’ve had one too many days of denim but are looking for something just as low-key. In addition to this stone shade, they’re also available in white and black here.

Go for a boho aesthetic with this linen tube top. It has a cropped, flowy silhouette that will feel the very best kind of breezy on a sweltering summer day. Fabric gathering all the way around adds volume, with tie detailing in front to pull everything together. Pair the top with a long, billowing maxi skirt or a cute pair of short shorts.

This formula is definitely worth the hype.

Everything is under $45.

They’re less than $25.

It's so comfortable, and paired with the brand's cooling duvet cover, it's also perfect for summer.