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This Summery Fabric Is Basically a Personal Air Conditioner

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The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and we’re sweating just thinking about humidity. We love summer! No really, we do, but only when we’re prepared with the appropriate outfit. And that doesn’t have to mean showing up to the office in bike shorts and a spaghetti strap tank (admittedly, HR likely won't approve of that move). 

Instead, might we suggest just wearing linen? Rocking the natural, woven fabric is practically like walking around as a human AC unit. This is the only way to wear a suit and (gasp!) a long-sleeve top in 100 percent humidity. It’s the quintessential material of summer for a reason—linen is totally breathable, making it feel like you’re wearing practically nothing at all (but is actually much more, um, office-appropriate). Ready to get on the linen train? Here are 12 easy, breezy pieces to keep you cool now…and through all of summer’s dreaded heatwaves.

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linen blazer
Nordstrom

Vince Cotton & Linen Blend Jacket

Conquer summer like a boss in this classic staple.

reformation jumpsuit1
Nordstrom

Reformation Kass Linen Jumpsuit

File this under: Must be worn in the Hamptons.

linen shirt dress
Goop

Fabiana Pigna Lottie Linen Shirtdress

Trade in your favorite cotton poplin shirtdress for a more breathable option.

Buy It ($375)

long linen coat plus size
Nordstrom

Avec Les Filles Oversize Linen Duster Coat

See? You can still rock a coat when it’s as hot as hades.

isabel marant
Nordstrom

Isabel Marant Étoile Telicia Ruffle Linen Dress

Airy ruffles add a bit of whimsy.

linen striped pants
Nordstrom

J.crew Point Sur Paperbag Stripe Linen Pants

Bonus: They’re lined.

pink linen mini dress
Goop

Innika Choo Hans Ufmafrok Smocked Linen Mini Dress

Even if you wear this to run errands, the tiny embroidered flowers and billowy sleeves will make it feel like vacation.

Buy It ($335)

tulip skirt
Nordstrom

Whistles Flounce Hem Linen Midi Skirt

Two words: tortoiseshell buttons.

button front dress
Nordstrom

Treasure & Bond Linen Midi Dress

Keep a long cardigan at your desk and throw it over this button-front frock, for when the actual air conditioner is blasting.

linen joggers
Nordstrom

Caslon Linen Jogger Pants

The easiest weekend staple. Sweatpants, we’ll see you in the fall.

cult gaia
Nordstrom

Cult Gaia Print Linen Midi Pencil Dress

Plays nice with straw bags and leather sandals.

linen trench
Nordstrom

Chelsea28 Linen Trench Coat

Trade your typical trench for this summery version.



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Brianna Lapolla formerly held the role of Senior Commerce Editor at PureWow covering all things shopping across beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. Now, she's putting her 12 years of...