The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (2024)

The sun is shining, the humidity is unbearable, and you’re sweating just standing. All you want to do is reach for shorts, sandals, and the lightest shirt in your closet. But there’s an event to attend, a scenario that requires you to dress up. It could be a wedding, a boardroom meeting, or an IRL job interview. You can’t get away with anything less than a two-piece. It’s time for a linen suit.

Linen—of all the standard materials used in suiting—is the lightest, the most breathable. The trade-off is that linen, in its purest form, is far less structured than other fabrics. That could work if the event at hand is casual. But if you really want to look distinguished, reach for a cut that’s mixed with cotton, silk, or even wool. A suit with these blends will hold its shape and offer the airiness you’re looking for. It’s what linen does best.

We have all these options (including a few surprises—if you’re into striped suits, checked suits, or suits with some damn cool linings, keep scrolling) below, ready to give you some ventilation in the sweltering summer heat no matter the occasion.

Best Linen Suit for Weddings

J.Crew Ludlow Slim-Fit Suit Jacket

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Best Linen Suit for Weddings

J.Crew Ludlow Slim-Fit Suit Jacket

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (12)Easy to dress up or down
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (13)Good price
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (14)Trusted brand
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (15)Nonfunctional buttons at cuffs

Wedding season is rounding the corner, and if the event is outdoors and the dress code is black tie optional, semiformal, co*cktail, beach formal, or dressy casual, J.Crew’s iconic Ludlow suit—a style we endorse regularly—is as foolproof as it gets.

Colors6
Materials72% cotton, 28% linen

Most Laid-Back Linen Suit

Alex Mill Mercer Linen Blazer

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Most Laid-Back Linen Suit

Alex Mill Mercer Linen Blazer

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (18)Excellent price for pure linen
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (19)Blazer and trousers are very wearable separately
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (20)Limited color options
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (21)Prone to wrinkles

If you’re not ready to squeeze into a slim-fit suit just yet, Alex Mill has a looser option. The two-piece is less structured and gives off a laid-back vibe, but it still looks presentable enough to wear out and about.

ColorsFlax, navy
Materials100% linen

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Alex Mill Standard Pleated Pants

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Alex Mill Standard Pleated Pants

Best Versatile Linen Suit

Todd Snyder Italian Linen Sutton Suit

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Best Versatile Linen Suit

Todd Snyder Italian Linen Sutton Suit

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (24)Chic AF
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (25)Tailored fit
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (26)Prone to wrinkles
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (27)On the pricier side

Todd Snyder knows how to make effortlessly chic, cool-guy clothes, and when it comes to linen suits, it’s as if they have it down to a science. This charcoal number is a day-to-night look that’ll never go out of style and can be worn with any number of shirts underneath.

ColorsCharcoal
Materials100% linen

Chicest Linen Suit

Percival Linen Tailored Blazer

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Chicest Linen Suit

Percival Linen Tailored Blazer

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (29)Summery color
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (30)From a cool brand
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (31)Plenty of color options
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (32)Hand-wash only
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (33)Prone to wrinkling

This 100 percent linen suit in gorgeous green is an eye-catcher for sure. Pair it with a crisp shirt and skinny tie (and, of course, the matching pants below) and you’re sure to secure Most Stylish Guy at the Function status.

Colors7
Materials100% linen

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Percival Linen Tailored Trousers

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Percival Linen Tailored Trousers

Fastest-Shipping Linen Suit

Perry Ellis Linen-Blend Suit Jacket

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The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (36)

Fastest-Shipping Linen Suit

Perry Ellis Linen-Blend Suit Jacket

Now 39% Off

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (37)Affordable
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (38)Speedy shipping
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (39)Limited color options
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (40)Not the highest quality

Need a classy linen suit in a pinch? Amazon never fails. Perry Ellis has an option that’s chic, versatile, and incredibly easy to style and wear.

ColorsNatural linen herringbone, bright white twill
Materials54% linen, 46% cotton

Perry Ellis Suit Pants

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The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (42)

Perry Ellis Suit Pants

Now 38% Off

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Best Affordable Linen Suit

Quince 100% European Linen Blazer

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Best Affordable Linen Suit

Quince 100% European Linen Blazer

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (44)Excellent price
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (45)Plenty of color options
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (46)Pure linen
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (47)Prone to wrinkling
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (48)Has a more casual look

For under $100 per piece, Quince’s linen suit is one you might just want to get in every color available. The single-breasted style has crisp, clean tailoring and a slim silhouette.

ColorsDeep navy, white, black, driftwood (khaki)
Materials100% linen

Quince 100% European Linen Pants

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Quince 100% European Linen Pants

Best Luxe Linen Suit

Brunello Cucinelli Solid Linen Suit

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Best Luxe Linen Suit

Brunello Cucinelli Solid Linen Suit

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (51)High-quality construction
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (52)Double-vented back
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (53)Unfinished hem allows tailoring to desired length
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (54)$$$
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (55)Only one color option

We have to give it up to Italian tailoring—they know how to do a linen suit. This is breathable and basic, so you’ll look and feel cool, especially with contrasting white buttons and an anti-creasing double vent.

ColorsNavy
MaterialsLinen

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Best Linen Suit for Summer

Banana Republic Arroyo Cotton-Linen Suit Jacket

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Best Linen Suit for Summer

Banana Republic Arroyo Cotton-Linen Suit Jacket

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (57)Versatile structure
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (58)Super lightweight
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (59)Only one color option

Banana Republic is a master at styles that are equal parts disheveled (in the best sense) and distinguished, the kinds of pieces that have character and won’t annihilate your bank account. This linen suit is a prime example.

ColorsNatural
Materials55% flax (linen), 45% cotton

Banana Republic Arroyo Cotton-Linen Suit Pants

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Banana Republic Arroyo Cotton-Linen Suit Pants

Best Tailored Linen Suit

Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Soft Modern Linen Suit Jacket

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Best Tailored Linen Suit

Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Soft Modern Linen Suit Jacket

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (62)Effortlessly classy
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (63)Staple look
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (64)Easy to dress up or down
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (65)Fabric is prone to wrinkles
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (66)Limited color options

If you’ve watched Gosford Park, Downton Abbey, or anything created by Julian Fellowes, you know that going to the countryside is an event. The men never disappoint with their fits. Their suits are richly textured and expertly tailored and reflect their sprawling woodland estates. Capturing all of this is this beautiful linen suit from Polo Ralph Lauren.

ColorsCoastal beige, cream
Materials100% linen

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Polo Ralph Lauren Linen Suit Trousers

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Polo Ralph Lauren Linen Suit Trousers

Best Easygoing Linen Suit

Suitsupply Light Brown Havana Suit

The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (68)

Best Easygoing Linen Suit

Suitsupply Light Brown Havana Suit

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (69)Perfect for summer months
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (70)Italian weaving
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (71)Double-breasted design
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (72)Pieces not sold as separates
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (73)Only one color option

Whether you’re headed to a summer wedding or a backyard co*cktail hour—or enduring a humid commute to the office—Suitsupply’s basic, versatile linen suit is a top contender. It is effortlessly put together, with a double-breasted blazer and pleated pants, so even when you’re combusting under the summer sun, you’ll look like you aren’t breaking a sweat.

ColorsLight brown
Materials100% linen

Best Cool Linen Suit

Etro Slim-Fit Herringbone Linen Suit Jacket

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Best Cool Linen Suit

Etro Slim-Fit Herringbone Linen Suit Jacket

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (75)Unique lining
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (76)Elegant tailoring
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (77)Pricey

With a jacquard-woven undercollar and a funky floral lining, this suit is all about understated elegance. At first glance, it’s outwardly chic and classy, but upon further inspection—from the tonal buttons to the super-lightweight, summery fabric—it’s all in the details.

ColorsNavy
Materials100% linen

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Etro Straight-Leg Herringbone Linen Suit Trousers

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Etro Straight-Leg Herringbone Linen Suit Trousers

Best Staple Linen Suit

Mr P. Linen, Cotton, and Nylon-Blend Blazer

The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (79)

Best Staple Linen Suit

Mr P. Linen, Cotton, and Nylon-Blend Blazer

Pros
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (80)Long-wearing basic
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (81)Easy to style
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (82)Three front patch pockets
Cons
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (83)Only one color option
  • The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (84)Not pure linen

For a basic black linen suit, Mr P. has you covered. This comfortable style, with its tailored look, is a staple that’ll be in your wardrobe for years to come.

ColorsBlack
Materials46% linen, 27% cotton, 27% nylon
The 15 Best Linen Suits to Keep You Cool Under the Sun (2024)

FAQs

What suits are good for hot weather? ›

Consider linen or cotton

Plant fabrics such as cotton, linen or bamboo are light and highly comfortable, as well as breathable. Linen suits are worn in hot European summers and well-suited to hot or humid weather. It is prone to wrinkling, especially in humid weather, and absorbs water heavily when it rains.

Is a linen suit cool? ›

Linen vs Other Fabrics

Its durability, absorbency, and ability to release heat from the body make it the top choice for staying cool and stylish during those hot months.

What is the best color for a linen suit? ›

Everyone knows linen looks good in beige and eggshell, but you shouldn't be afraid to don it in grey, blue, black and — if you feel like channeling your inner Redford — light pink. Just make sure to avoid super bright colors; linen speaks loudly enough on its own.

When should you stop wearing linen? ›

Linen does not have only one season appropriate to be worn, it has proven to be perfect for any weather and time of the year! You can easily enjoy linen for the hot days and layer it stylishly during the chilly months of winter.

What is the coolest clothing to wear in hot weather? ›

Lighter-colored fabrics with loose weaves reflect the heat and are better choices for hot weather than dark clothes, experts say — with one exception. Darker clothing and a dense, tight construction do a better job of protecting the skin from dangerous rays from the sun that can cause sunburn and aging.

What is the best material to wear when it's really hot? ›

Linen is a top choice for cool fabrics to wear in hot weather conditions. It is made from flax fibers and is naturally antibacterial and stain-repellent. Garments made of linen will get clean even when you wash them at low temperatures.

Are linen suits good for hot weather? ›

Linen suits are ideal for the hot summer months, as they are extremely thin and breathable.

What makes linen cool? ›

Due to its weave and the natural properties of the flax plant, linen fabric is naturally breathable, allowing air to flow between the fibres. This means wearing linen clothing instead of garments made from synthetic fabric keeps you cooler in hot weather.

Should a linen suit be ironed? ›

The only downside to linen its tendency to wrinkle, but you can help it to stay looking sharp by giving it a good iron. Don't be afraid to turn the heat up and go over it a few times to make sure all the creases are out. Once it's ironed, keep it hung in a dry place so it's ready for when you come to wear it.

What shoes to wear with a linen suit? ›

Whether it's dark blue, tobacco or olive green, well worn burgundy loafers like Boston in Burgundy Cavalry Calf, or mid-brown suede Oxfords make for a comfortable partner to a classic linen suit like this.

What do you wear under a linen suit? ›

Pair your linen suit with a light coloured cotton shirt or try a full linen look with a crisp linen shirt. Go tieless, but give a touch of the relaxed gentleman with your favourite pocket square.

What tie to wear with a linen suit? ›

Any tie will be more professional than an open collar, but a closely-pressed wool or silk tie will help offset any wrinkles in the fabric of the suit. If you're wearing a lightly-colored suit—like mauve, cream, or a light blue for example—a burgundy or navy silk tie will draw the eye and formalize the entire look.

What not to do with linen? ›

Do not:
  1. rinse, shake or sort linen on removal from beds/trolleys.
  2. place used linen on the floor or any other surfaces, for example a locker/table top.
  3. re-handle used linen once bagged.
  4. overfill laundry receptacles.
  5. place inappropriate items in the laundry receptacle, for example used equipment/needles.

Should linen be worn wrinkled? ›

Wrinkles can be seen as an natural and authentic part of a linen clothing. It's completely fine to have wrinkled linen for everyday use, but sometimes for special occasions, you might want to look a little bit more put together wearing your favorite versatile linen piece.

Can you wear linen in 70 degree weather? ›

As soon as the weather in the South gets above 70 or 80 degrees consistently, we often look to grab those more breathable fabrics in our closet. There's nothing that will beat the sweltering afternoon sun and heat better than a linen garment.

How do you keep a suit cool in the summer? ›

Here are some tips to help you stop sweating during the summer while wearing a suit: Choose the right fabric: Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, seersucker or coffee fabrics. These materials allow air to flow through the suit, helping to keep you cool and reduce sweating.

How do I stop sweating in my suit? ›

How to Wear a Suit Without Sweating
  1. Choose a Linen Suit. You'll sweat less when wearing a suit made of linen than other fabrics. ...
  2. Leave the Jacket Unbuttoned. ...
  3. Wear a Thin Dress Shirt. ...
  4. Choose a Bow Tie. ...
  5. Avoid Dark-Colored Suits. ...
  6. Skip the Vest. ...
  7. Wear an Undershirt. ...
  8. Ditch the Jacket.

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