If you haven’t noticed yet, linen shirts have regained their place among men’s style choices, and the only real question is why did they ever go somewhere in the first place. After all, they check all the boxes men often cite when choosing their clothes: they’re soft, comfortable, and can add a tactile touch to just about any ensemble, be it classic or dressy. While once creasing and wrinkling were drawbacks, many of today’s linen offerings blend in cotton to reduce or even eliminate that concern entirely.
For all occasions
Made of ultra-soft cotton and flax, the Makkrom shirt has a well-stitched small sewn collar that allows your neck to breathe while still looking stylish. It’s a button-down, so there are fitting options on the top and bottom. But if you don’t like your look to be too fitted, it’s best to go a size up or check Makkron’s sizing guidelines. You’ll feel that zen with it on.
For all seasons
At a 55 percent linen and 45 percent cotton blend, this shirt has the elevated look of linen but flexes like cotton. It’s soft to the touch but wicks moisture as dutiful linen does. And because it’s a roll-up, you can use it from spring to early fall (or year-round if you’re in a warm climate). Dress up, dress down, this is a shirt that can stand on its own, or be combined with a sports jacket or spring sweater.
Pull-on closure
This smart Henley puts a nice spin on the pullover convenience of the style. Button a jacket over it, throw a sweater over it, and you have a smart, dressed-up look. Throw it on amid a heatwave, and look brilliant all over again. You’ll love the ¾ sleeves look, and the offering of solid colors (particularly the dark green). This shirt is built as a loose fit, but sizes run small so if in doubt go up. And please be sure to hand wash.
Styles and options
For those who like to accompany style with practicality, Amazon’s Essential is a perfect fit. A short sleeve with a patch chest pocket, this classic look works for formal wear as much as it does for relaxing weekend attire. Its 55/45 linen/cotton machine washable mix provides easy care, and the endless array of colors and patterns might lure you into buying more than one.
A favorite everywhere
Strong men be warned – the hugging short sleeves are sure to accentuate your guns. There’s a reason this style is popular and timeless. From Mexico to Miami to Tampa and beyond, the guayabera — a button-down linen-based shirt with four pockets and embroidery or pleats down the front — has evolved into a fashion statement for upscale dinners and afternoon cocktails. This 100 percent linen offering stays true to that, offering easy wicking amid the most humid conditions, and a shoulder-hugging loose-around-the-middle look that compliments every sized man.
