What is the best summer staple? That depends entirely on whom you might ask. For the dress fanatics, it's all about an endless supply of breezy summer frocks, while relaxed shorts and sleek tank tops are pretty much non-negotiable for minimalists. Whatever your go-to summer uniform of choice, one thing's for certain: the best pieces of the summer are all crafted in linen. My own wardrobe is practically bursting with linen trousers and an assortment of linen shirts, but lately I've noticed an overlooked basic on the most stylish women strolling through the city. They're all swishing through the heatwave in elegant linen skirts.
Sure, we've been flirting with lace-trimmed midis and charming boho skirtsthis season, but the best linen skirts come with the kind of effortless elegance that firmly puts them in the 'timeless summer essentials' camp. They're cool (quite literally) and come with a natural ease, sprezzatura the Italians call it, that simply looks chic – whether you're heading to your morning meeting or relaxing on a sunny beach, Aperol in hand, naturally. Lightweight and breathable, even linen's predisposition to creasing way to easily is part of its charm. It's proof, really, that you've got far better things to do than steam your outfit, while still looking amazing regardless.
In a neutral palette of ivory, beige, chocolate brown, and muted pastels, whether you opt for a calf-length midi or a floor-grazing maxi, linen skirts are an incredible foundation piece that work just as well with a sleek tank top and sandals as they do with a crisp button-down and trainers. Don't believe us? Take a closer look at the SS25 runways where Max Mara sent tailored linen skirts down the catwalk, paired with Oxford shirts and matching blazers. Elsewhere, Miu Miu showcased knee-length cotton linen-blends paired with utility jackets, and Jacquemus rendered the summer staple in a trendy butter yellow.
Linen skirts have also been a cool girl staple with our favourite A-listers, including Kendall Jenner and EmRata, styling theirs in different ways virtually every summer. A piece of good news: the high street, too, has plenty of excellent options. Case in point, Arket's Linen-Blend Skirt that's been popular with our favourite tastemakers lately, thanks to its crease-resistant make and the sleek column-like silhouette, evidently incredibly easy to style.
Shop: Arket's Linen-Blend Skirt
www.arket.com
Naturally a bit dressier thanks to its black hue, Arket's ankle-skimming skirt is less prone to creasing thanks to its linen-blend construction. I love how comfortable the elasticated waist is during the heatwave, while the darker shade means it's ideal for rainy spells as well. Pair yours with a tucked-in shirt for the office or with a sleeveless linen top for the weekend.
Uniqlo, meanwhile, has a swishy linen-blend skirt, which can be styled with a baby tee and ballet flats for off-duty flavour. If your brief for the summer is maximalism, however, then Staud's fish-print skirt or Reformation's trendy polka mini take are both great options. Imbued with charm and sophistication, whether you opt for a simple neutral skirt or invest in one with a statement flourish, our edit of the best linen skirts will help you waft through heatwaves and rainy summer evenings alike, no sweat (literally).
Shop: The Best Linen Skirts 2025
www.marksandspencer.com
Cut along the bias for a swishy A-line fit, M&S' linen maxi also features a side split for added movement. Available in oatmeal, black and chocolate, the brand offers the skirt in petite, regular and long, meaning no matter your style or body type, this maxi will seamlessly slot into your wardrobe.
On sale
shop.mango.com
Slip into Mango's linen sarong for beach days, whether you're headed to Croatia or Cornwall – the wrapover design is perfect for pairing with a bikini. Alternatively, you could wear it with a boho blouse and heeled flip-flops for a relaxed weekend in the city.
www.uniqlo.com
Uniqlo may be known for its cashmere knits and affordable denim, but the high street retailer does linen well too. This simple skirt is cut for an A-line fit and gently skims the calf, allowing your fresh pedicure to shine.
www.thereformation.com
If you're not one for maxis, Reformation has an array of mini linen skirts. We're eyeing up the Veranda skirt in a trendy polka dot print that'll give you that LA cool girl look, whether you pair it with a boxy T-shirt, a sleek tank, or the matching halterneck top.
On sale
www.cos.com
COS is our go-to destination for well-crafted basics, and its line skirt offering is brilliant. Case in point? This linen-blend maxi in a soft pink shade that's as elegant as it is comfortable. A summer must-have if we ever saw one.
www.meandem.com
This tan linen-blend maxi from celeb-loved brand ME+EM is another excellent option for your work wardrobe. Cut for a flowing fit, the wrap style creates the illusion of inverted pleats for a trendy touch that'll look great with a white shirt as well as sporty polo shirts for a preppy look.
www.net-a-porter.com
ICYMI, the style set has christened this the sardine summer with fish motifs taking over everything from T-shirts and dresses to jewellery and bags. Why not jump in on the trend with Staud's playful linen maxi covered in colourful fish? Lean into the trend with the brand's TikTok-famous sardine bag in tow.
On sale
www.nobodyschild.com
You really can't go wrong with a white tiered skirt in the summer, especially when it's made from linen and is perfectly swishy. Style it with cowboy boots and a frilly blouse for a boho look.
www.freepeople.com
We love a multitasker, and this Free People linen-blend skirt will probably be the hardest-working hero in your summer wardrobe. The knee-length skirt features a comfy wide-waistband that can be folded over as a skirt or worn at the bust as a strapless mini dress. That's multiple holiday looks sorted with minimal suitcase space.
On sale
www.stories.com
Trust & Other Stories to put a feminine spin on the staple with embroidery detailing and a pretty scalloped hem. Perfect for wearing with lace blouses and strappy suede sandals.
On sale
aligne.co
Straight fit with elevated dart details at the waist and a split down the back for easy movement, Aligne's Mia linen and cotton-blend maxi skirt is a simple yet effective staple. We're not saying you have to pair it with the matching linen waistcoat, but we'd highly recommend it.
www.zara.com
Another great summer wardrobe necessity, this brown midi from Zara is cut with a front slit and features a knotted detail at the waist as well as a bead and shell trim that practically screams beach holiday.
www.net-a-porter.com
Zimmermann knows a thing or two about summer dressing and its take on line skirts is the prettiest we've seen with a beautifully draped fit covered in a lilac bandana print. Style yours with suede sandals and a straw tote.
farmrio.uk
The bright red shade and vibrant floral print perfectly encapsulate Farm Rio's signature vibrant charm. Made from 100% linen, it's finished with a scalloped hem and an elasticated waistband.
Main image credits: ©Instagram/@jessfulbrook @leanne.white_
Hitanshi Kamdar is a senior commerce writer for Grazia. Hitanshi is always on the hunt for the latest trends, emerging designers and the internet’s most bizarre style discourse. When not writing, she can be found IDing outfits during Netflix binges and shopping for the latest It-girl shoe trends.