Top up your wardrobe with linen tops
When the temperatures rise, we reach into our closets for tops that are breathable and lightweight. But that’s not where it stops. We also want to be able to grab items that are instantly presentable, and if possible, elegant. This is where linen tops come into their own. Linen tops are a great choice for spring and summer dressing. They look just right in an array of settings, whether it be at home, the office, at the beach or at an afternoon garden party. Linen is super versatile, so there’s good reason to nab some linen tops for your wardrobe.
Let’s look at the benefits of wearing linen tops, what types of linen fabric are available, what popular linen top styles you’ll come across, and some useful care tips.
Linen’s top attributes
Linen has long been known as, dare we say, a classy fabric? It is at once fine and durable, and has been popular across continents for its long wearing qualities, breathability, and for the fact it’s made using natural fibres.
Linen is a fibre derived from the flax plant, and is known for its exceptional ability to draw moisture away from the body. This means that when you wear linen in warm weather, it absorbs perspiration, then dries quickly, allowing you to stay cool and comfortable.
Linen is a very strong natural fibre, and can last for years. It also becomes softer the more you wear it, so over the years, your linen garments give more and more.
Linen fibre options
When you’re seeking out linen tops, you’ll encounter two main fabric options: 100% pure linen, or linen blends. There are advantages to each.
Pure linen is, of course, entirely plant derived, so it retains all the qualities we spoke of above (it’s breathable and moisture wicking). Pure linen is often a bit softer to wear than linen blends, which can feel a little itchy to some people, depending on the synthetic fibres it’s blended with. Pure linen does wrinkle easily, which though part of its natural charm, might put some people off, especially those who seek a very polished look.
Linen blends mix linen fibres with other fibres like polyester, viscose or even cotton. The synthetic fibres offer a little more stretch to the garment, but they also mean that the top might not keep you as cool as pure linen will, and you have to be mindful of the care instructions when washing.
Popular Linen Top Styles
There’s plenty of diversity out there when it comes to linen tops, and you should be easily able to find one in a style you like. Let’s run through the linen tops that will serve you well in your wardrobe.
Linen Shirt
A linen shirt is an absolute classic. Linen shirts are a prime option to wear for work, as they always look professional and their breathability means they keep you comfortable on hot days at the office. Worn with a cardigan or a blazer, the linen shirt is a stylish and durable option.
A linen shirt also looks great after hours. Try it with blue jeans, brown sandals and a shoulder bag. Roll the sleeves up and open a few buttons for a more relaxed, weekend vibe.
Linen Blouse
Linen blouses are similar to linen shirts, but offer a slightly softer, more feminine look. They come in both tailored, and loose cuts, and often include delicate details like broderie anglaise. You can wear a linen blouse in a variety of settings, whether it be at work, home, or out to brunch.
A linen blouse pairs well with a pencil or A-line skirt, or with tailored pants.
Floral Linen Top
Floral patterns add a touch of femininity and charm to linen tops. So if you’re headed to a casual engagement party, baby shower or such, then consider the floral linen top. Pair with denim shorts or a skirt for a relaxed, summery vibe.
Layered Linen Top
If you want something a little different, why not try a linen top with layering? These comfortable tops feature layers of linen fabric, and offer a textured, dimensional look.
Layered linen tops can be styled with slim-fit jeans or pants for a chic, everyday ensemble.
Linen Top with Embellishments
Though linen is known for its practical qualities, it doesn’t mean that it can’t be jazzed up a bit. There are a number of linen tops out there with eye-catching embellishments like sequins, interesting buttons, embroidery, shell details, or linen mixed with lace or broderie anglaise detail. So, if you’re worried your linen top might be conservative or dull, you needn’t be concerned.
An embellished linen top is a great item to wear for brunch. Pair it with a skirt or fitted trousers and heels for an elegant look.
Tunic-Style Linen Top
You’ll notice that linen is a great fabric choice for tunic tops. Great for casual outings, or to wear to the beach in summer, a linen tunic top allows for plenty of airflow. Linen tunic tops fall to approximately mid-thigh to knee length, and can be worn with pants, leggings, or with bare legs.
For a beach outing, wear your tunic linen top over your bathers. Consider belting the tunic at the waist if you want to create more of a dress look.
For a casual day trip, wear your tunic top with slim-fit jeans or leggings, or with lightweight cotton or linen pants.
Linen in Summer: A Classic Choice
There’s something quintessentially ‘summer’ about linen tops. We’ve all seen magazine covers with people walking along a beach wearing bathers with a loose linen shirt covering their arms. Or there’s the sleeves-rolled-up linen shirt over a white tank and blue jeans. The linen top is a classic in summer. White linen and neutral tones like beige, tan, and soft grey are timeless options that reflect sunlight and keep you cool. These colours are also incredibly versatile, and pair easily with a variety of other shades and styles.
For those who enjoy a pop of colour, bold linens in vibrant hues like coral, turquoise, or mustard add a fun and fresh element to summer wardrobes. Linen prints, including floral and geometric patterns, also offer a stylish twist on the classic fabric.
Caring for your linen tops
Look after your linen tops, and they’ll last a long time. Here are some tips for caring for your 100% linen tops (remember to always read the care instructions on the garment, in case it needs unique care, particularly if bold colours are involved).
Washing: If using the washing machine, choose a delicate wash setting, gentle laundry detergent, and cold water. Make sure there aren’t too many items in the machine, or any heavy, bulky items that may damage the linen. Also be sure to wash like colours together (don’t wash white linen with other colours, for example).
If handwashing, again, use a gentle detergent and cold water. Don’t let your linen top sit in the water for too long—just wash and rinse it immediately.
Drying: Air drying is the best way to dry your linen tops, preferably out of direct sunlight, as over time, the sun does degrade linen.
If you must use the tumble dryer to dry your linen top, use a very low setting.
Ironing: Linen creases easily, and holds its creases when dry. This is normal, and one of linen’s charms, but if you like a crisp appearance, you can iron linen. It’s best to iron your linen tops when they are still damp, using a linen setting (medium to high). You can also use a steamer.
Storing: Ideally, store your linen tops on a hanger, away from moisture.
Linen tops available at Femme Connection
Linen tops offer unparalleled comfort, breathability, and style. Whether you prefer the classic look of pure linen or the practical benefits of linen blends, there’s a linen top for every taste and occasion.
Femme Connection's collection includes a range of versatile and elegant linen tops, including blouses, tunic-style tops, relaxed shirts, embellished linen tops, floral linen tops, and linen tops in a variety of colours. There’s sure to be a linen top just right for you!
