From Paris to NYC, Every Fashion Person Knows That This Dress Style Is Elite

It doesn't matter where you live. If you know what's good for you, you'll invest in a few new linen dresses for the summer. I'm not just saying that because I am linen's number one fan. All around the world, stylish people rely on the breathable, lightweight, and natural fabric for the time of the year when temperatures and humidity levels skyrocket, making wearing any sort of heat-absorbing clothing a genuine nightmare if you plan on going outside for even just a few moments. (If you live in Europe, where air conditioning isn't as common as it is in the U.S., even staying inside can be sweltering.)

With all this being said, it's not surprising that my Instagram feed during the summer months is full of chic photos of women in Paris, Milan, London, NYC, and more fashion-filled locales wearing billowy linen frocks, whether they're shift minis, A-line midis, or classic slips. With a material like linen, there's no limit to the style, color, or pattern—it comes in every possible option. Just try your best to find pieces that are 100% linen. The more mixed the fabric blend is, the less effective the piece becomes at helping you beat the heat.

Below, shop 25 of the best linen dresses on the market this summer, period.

I feel like everyone thinks of linen dresses as being white or natural, which makes sense. Linen is a summer fabric, and black isn't always the most practical color in the summer given its absorbent qualities. However, because 100% linen pieces are so breathable, it's probably the only material you can get away with wearing black in.

Sometimes, when it's really hot and humid, you don't want your clothes to even come close to touching your body. That's fine—they don't have to with a dress like Monikh's above. It's loose and shapeless in a way that'll keep it from sticking to your skin but still somehow looks refined and chic.

One of my favorite qualities of linen is how easy it is to steam. Some materials take forever to remove wrinkles from, but the second you run a steamer over a linen dress, it'll immediately start to crisp up and flatten out. Trust me. I worked at a resortwear boutique in college and steamed hundreds of linen dresses. Because of this trait, linen dresses are perfect for vacations. All it takes is one quick pass with your hotel's steamer, and you'll be ready for seaside lunch, a day at the beach, or some shopping around town.

One of the most appealing things about stocking up on linen dresses in the summertime is how little you have to add to them to craft a perfect, compliment-worthy outfit. Throw on some easy sandals, flats, or sneakers and be on your way. A bag and some earrings will help, but honestly, they aren't necessary.

If you have any sort of beach vacation on your calendar this summer, a white linen frock is a must-pack item for the trip. Bring all the shorts, pants, and skirts you want, but without a classic linen dress in your suitcase, no vacation wardrobe will be complete.