Unlike team-logo baseball caps and chunky white athletic kicks, the boxy, too-long linen shirt is one dad staple we’re not trying to resurrect. That is, not without some heavy revisions. While a linen shirt can be incredibly practical in the summer months (see: wedding season), the breezy, Margaritaville look doesn’t work for everyone. No offense to dad’s chill Jack Nicholson vibes.
To that end, here’s how to take the summer staple and give it a young-guy spin. Because, just like dress shirts and crewneck tees, the details really make all the difference.
Look for a slimmer fit and shorter sleeve.
NN07 Miyagi camp-collar shirt
A linen shirt might be a breezier look than your standard broadcloth shirt, but that doesn't mean it should be flapping in the wind as you walk down the street. Look for shirts with a trim cut through the body and, if it's short-sleeved, a cuff that hits your bicep instead of your elbow. That'll take about ten years off the shirt alone.
Try a different cut, color, or print.
Our Legacy box fit linen shirt
The problem with a white or ivory linen shirt is that it can look a little Fabio in the wrong light. To ward off romance-novel vibes seek out more lively, edgy versions of the breezy basic. Would your dad wear this trippy print from Our Legacy? We think not.
Navigate around sweat stains.
Arje The Jacques linen shirt
If you're a sweater, or you know you'll be in the sun all day, plan ahead. Linen is better than a synthetic fabric but that doesn't mean you won't get pit stains. Try an undershirt or go for black, navy, or white shirts which won't show underarm sweat like gray or blue tend to do.
Know whether or not to tuck it in.
Frescobol Carioca striped linen shirt (was $174, 60% off)
A too-long linen shirt is a friend to no one. If you bought something short and boxy (see: this season's popular vacation shirts) you're good to let the hem fly free. For a more traditional, long-sleeve shirt, try tucking it into chinos or smart trousers for a more polished look.
Launder it more often than not.
Todd Snyder linen button-down shirt
The linen shirt is allowed to be rumpled, that's part of its charm, but don't take that as permission to let it sit on the floor of your closet in between wears. Dry clean more often than not so the fabric looks fresh instead of unkempt. You might not want to dress like dad, but you don't want to embarrass him either.
7 More Linen Shirts We Like
Diesel short-sleeve linen shirt
Want to toughen up the linen shirt? Make it military.
Bonobos washed linen shirt (was $98, 40% off)
Your favorite winter flannel, now in a fabric you won't positively roast in.
Freemans Sporting Club camp collar linen shirt
The palest shade of pink is a wedding-season flex for the ages.
Indigo blue gives you double-denim energy without double-denim pit stains.
Uniqlo linen long-sleeve shirt
Go ahead and fall in love with this $30 French linen shirt. Uniqlo makes it in 11 colors.
Blue Blue Japan wave print linen shirt
Island vibes, now without the balloon sleeves and palm trees.
Everlane pinstripe linen shirt
Respectable pinstripes and a button-down collar let you bring the linen shirt to work.
