Women's Linen Pants & Shorts

Linen is a natural fibre made from the flax plant. The fibres are long and strong, which gives the fabric its crisp feel and helps it hold up to regular washing. Because the fibre breathes well, linen stays comfortable in the heat. For more information, read our guide to linen.

A wide-leg linen pant looks balanced with a fitted top or a tucked-in shirt. For a matched summer outfit, choose a shirt in a similar tone. On cooler evenings, add lightweight knitwear.

For work, wear linen pants in one tone with a top in a lighter shade, such as ivory or soft grey, and add a belt to keep the line tidy. For evenings, change to a fine knit top and add heels or flat sandals. Neutral tones and soft pinstripes are the simplest to mix and match.

Flat sandals or flats suit daytime outfits with linen shorts or wide-leg pants. For evenings, a leather shoe or a low heel gives a more finished look. Keep the shoes simple so the linen stays the focus.

Follow the care label first. As a general guide, machine wash cold on a gentle cycle or hand wash with a mild detergent. Dry in the shade rather than in a tumble dryer, which helps prevent shrinkage.