Summer's here, and if you're anything like me, you're already ditching thick sweaters for lightweight pieces. Linen has always been my go-to for hot weather—it's airy, light, and softer with every wash. But come on, finding stylish linen pieces that don't cost an arm and a leg can feel like finding a unicorn. I've scoured the internet, tried dozens of brands, and found out which ones provide quality without the guilt. Here are my top affordable linen brands to keep you cool and stylish throughout the summer.

Before we dive into the brands, a quick word on why linen is the ultimate summer staple. Made from flax fibres, linen is naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. It's perfect for sweaty, hot subway rides, outdoor barbecues, or beach days spent in the sun. And it's durable and sustainable—flax requires less water and pesticides than cotton. The one downside? Wrinkles. But seriously, a few creases are just part of effortless cool.

Are neutral colours more your style? Everlane will be your new BFF in no time. Their linen collection includes crisp white blouses, perfectly tailored trousers, and flowy black, navy, and beige dresses. I picked up their linen button-down shirt last summer, and it's become my summer uniform—perfect with jeans or tied loose over a swimsuit. Starting at around $40, it's a steal for timeless pieces that will last years.

As a global brand, Uniqlo excels at providing cheap essentials, and its linen collection is no exception. Imagine airy blouses, relaxed shorts, and delicate dresses—all under $50. I'm hooked on their linen mix tees; they're ultra-soft, wrinkle-free, and available in soft pastels. Furthermore, their sizing is inclusive, with sizes up to 3XL.

H&M's linen collection for summer is a hidden gem. Their items, from jumpsuits with belts to blazers that hit just above the hip, are trendy but not over-the-top. I recently grabbed a linen midi skirt for $35, perfect for weekend brunches or office Fridays. Wash it like usual to avoid shrinkage.

This brand is famous for its comfortable, minimalist linen designs. Their wrap dresses and loose-fitting pants are ideal partners for holidays or romantic date nights. Priced around $70, the quality warrants the cost. I have loved my MagicLinen robe for three summers, and it still looks as great as new.

Mate's linen collection embodies the laid-back California spirit. Their linen jumpsuits and shorts are ideal for sweltering days, and the natural colour palette—drawn from terracotta and sage—is gorgeous against sun-kissed skin. Everything is created with ethics in mind; most items cost less than $100.

For work, sleek, professional attire, Eileen Fisher linen jackets and tailored trousers are worth the splurge. Yes, it's pricier (around $150+), but the quality is top-notch. I purchased a linen jacket last year, and it's now my go-to for weddings and meetings.

A British bestseller, Seasalt has inexpensive linen tunics, trousers, and jackets. Their style skews relaxed—oversized tops and drawstring pants come to mind—but it's good stuff. I bought a striped linen blouse for $45, and it's now my travel go-to.

Quince is where high-end and budget-friendly meet. Their linen dresses and button-downs start at $30 and are butter-soft. I adore their sleep sets in linen—they're perfect for lounging around the house and even for beach cover-ups. Just be warned: their simple pieces fly off the shelves.

Mango's linen pieces effortlessly carry trendiness without ever seeming try-hard. Their puff-sleeve blouses and paper bag shorts make for ideal outfits worthy of Instagram. Priced at $40 to $80, their annual sales are a great time to stock up.

This label makes sweet linen separates and dresses with delicate embroidery. Its prairie-style midi dresses, $90 and up, are ideal for picnics or festivals. I recently wore one to a baby shower for a friend, and everyone wanted to know where I'd found it.

Now that you've got the brands down let's talk styling. Linen's versatility is its superpower. Here's how I wear it:

For work: Pair a linen blazer with tailored shorts and loafers.

Weekends: Throw a linen shirt over a tank top and bike shorts.

Evenings: A linen slip dress with strappy sandals and a clutch equals instant glamour.

Accessorize wisely—a straw hat or woven bag elevates any linen outfit.

Linen isn't just comfortable—it's kind to the planet. Flax plants require 60% less water than cotton; every part of the plant is used, reducing waste. Brands like Eileen Fisher and Mate prioritize organic dyes and fair labour practices. When shopping, look for certifications like GOTS or Oeko-Tex to ensure your linen is ethically made.

Whether you’re a minimalist, a boho lover, or a corporate climber, there’s a linen brand for you. My advice? Start with basics like a white shirt or neutral shorts, then build from there. Mix and match textures (linen + cotton = dreamy) and embrace the wrinkles—they’re part of the charm.

This summer, stay cool, look chic, and remember: affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Happy shopping!