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Our editors love wearing linen, especially in warmer months. Here are our favorite places to buy linen clothes that are good quality, sustainable, and relatively affordable.

Move over cotton, there’s another sustainable fabric in town: Linen. Derived from flax plants, linen is easy to grow, requires little water, and is biodegradable. Once sourced, it’s durable, resilient, and only gets better (and softer!) with time.

Why choose linen clothing? 

There’s tons of benefits to wearing linen clothing. Since flax grows in diverse climates (where there’s lots of rain!), it reduces the need for extensive irrigation or chemical inputs. This means linen typically requires fewer pesticides and water to grow than other crops like cotton. Linen is also biodegradable and known for its durability and strength, making it a more environmentally friendly choice compared to synthetic materials. 

You’ll notice your linen pieces become softer and more comfortable with each wash, making it ideal for everyday wear. With a relaxed and casual look, linen clothing is the perfect choice for a variety of occasions from beach outings to casual office settings. As if that’s not enough, it’s also breathable and moisture-wicking (which is why so many people love it as linen bedsheets!), so it will keep you cool through the warmer months and can be comfortably layered in the colder ones. It also requires almost zero special care, which is a real perk in our book!

Why is organic linen important?

Organic linen is a standout choice when it comes to eco-conscious, high-quality clothing for several important reasons. Flax requires far less water to grow than cotton and thrives without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers when farmed organically. This in turn means that organic linen production helps preserve the health of the soil and surrounding ecosystem, while also protecting farmers and local communities from exposure to toxic chemicals. Unlike conventional textiles, organic linen is processed without harsh bleaches or dyes, making it gentler on your skin and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitivities.

From a sustainability standpoint, organic linen is a dream material. It’s fully biodegradable and compostable, meaning that at the end of its life cycle, it naturally returns to the earth without contributing to landfill waste or microplastic pollution.

How is linen made and why is it so expensive?

Linen is made from the fibers of the flax plant, and its production is both time-consuming and labor-intensive, which explains why it’s often more expensive than other fabrics. The process begins with growing flax, a crop that thrives in cooler climates and typically requires fewer pesticides and less water, especially when farmed organically. After harvesting, the entire flax plant is pulled from the ground to preserve the full length of the fibers. These stalks then undergo retting — a natural soaking process that breaks down the pectins binding the fibers to the woody core — followed by breaking, scutching, and hackling to extract and clean the long linen fibers. These fibers are then spun into yarn and woven into fabric, requiring skill and precision to maintain the integrity of the material.

Linen is also more costly because flax yields less usable fiber than cotton, and it has a shorter growing season, making it less readily available. However, the result is a strong, breathable, and eco-friendly fabric that softens with time and lasts for years.

What are the relevant certifications when shopping for linen clothing?

When shopping for linen clothing, several certifications can help ensure you’re choosing products that are sustainable, ethically made, and safe for both you and the planet. Here are the most relevant ones to look for:

  • GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): This is one of the most trusted certifications for organic textiles. It ensures the linen is made from organically grown flax and processed without toxic chemicals, with strict environmental and social criteria throughout the supply chain.
  • OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: This certification guarantees that the finished linen product is free from harmful substances. It tests for chemicals that are hazardous to human health, even if they’re not legally regulated yet.
  • European Flax®: A certification that ensures flax is grown in Western Europe (France, Belgium, or the Netherlands) without irrigation, GMOs, or waste. It also promotes traceability and low environmental impact farming practices.
  • Masters of Linen®: This label ensures that the linen is 100% made in Europe, from flax farming to spinning and weaving. It supports a fully traceable and local supply chain with high environmental and social standards.
  • Fairtrade: While less common specifically for linen, this certification ensures that the people involved in producing the clothing are paid fairly and work in safe, humane conditions.
  • Cradle to Cradle Certified®: This goes beyond just organic — it considers the entire lifecycle of a product, from materials and manufacturing to circularity and social fairness.

How to care for linen clothing:

    Caring for linen clothing is relatively simple, but a few thoughtful steps can help your pieces last longer and look their best. Linen is naturally durable and gets softer with each wash, so regular wear and gentle laundering actually improve the fabric over time. For everyday linen items, machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold or lukewarm water using a mild, eco-friendly detergent. Air drying is ideal to preserve the fibers and avoid shrinkage — just lay your pieces flat or hang them to dry. While ironing is optional (linen’s natural wrinkles are part of its charm), you can steam or press your garments for a more polished look.

    If you want that crisp, tailored finish — especially for structured linen pieces like suits, blazers, or special occasion garments — dry cleaning is often recommended. However, it’s worth noting that traditional dry cleaning involves toxic chemicals like perchloroethylene. For a more nontoxic approach, look for green or eco-friendly dry cleaners that use gentler, safer alternatives. Ultimately, the best care method depends on your goals: A relaxed, lived-in aesthetic or a sleek, professional finish.

    Are there any downsides to linen?

    While linen has many wonderful qualities — like breathability, durability, and sustainability — it does come with a few downsides to consider. One of the most notable is that linen wrinkles easily. Its natural fibers don’t have much elasticity, so creases form quickly, especially with movement or when sitting. This makes it a better option for casual or relaxed dressing, where a slightly rumpled look is part of the charm. If you’re aiming for a perfectly polished or professional appearance, linen might not be your go-to unless you’re willing to steam or iron regularly (or opt for a linen blend). Additionally, pure linen can sometimes feel a bit stiff at first, though it softens beautifully with wear and washing. Despite these quirks, you’ll likely find that linen’s cool, airy comfort and timeless style outweigh its imperfections.

    Our criteria:

    Our editors have reviewed the top sustainable fashions brands for a decade. After personally wearing and researching the best sustainable linen on the market, we’ve selected 10 clothing brands that use natural linen for dresses with stunning silhouettes, tapered bottoms, and oversized tops that are as relaxing as they are sustainable. We continually add new picks to the list that meet the criteria below.

    • HIGH QUALITY | Using only the highest-quality flax to make top notch linen clothes (including certified organic linen clothes) these clothing brands make durable and long lasting linen pieces.
    • SUSTAINABLE | Each of these linen clothing brands cultivate and manufacture their linen clothing using the most sustainable processes, such as minimal water usage and ensuring their clothes are 100% linen for full biodegradability at end of life.
    • AFFORDABLE | We’ve made sure to include plenty of affordable linen clothing brands so we can all reap the benefits of this versatile and breathable fabric! 

    When warmer weather is in full swing, be sure to pair your breezy linen gear with a sustainable summer hat and an ethically-made handbag! These sustainable swimsuits and eco-friendly sandals are also the perfect pairings for a light linen dress or linen cover-up. For more clothing inspo, check out our spring and summer capsule wardrobe recs!


    Table of contents


    1. MagicLinen

    Biodegradable
    Budget friendly
    Eco friendly packaging
    Family owned
    Gives back
    Natural materials
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Recycled materials
    Size inclusive

    Best For | Linen pullover dresses
    Size Range | XS – 3XL
    Price | $59 (tank top) – $217 (blazer)

    MagicLinen began when founder Vita noticed how her mother’s and grandmother’s linen apparel lasted much longer than her own in their home country of Lithuania. Today, MagicLinen is a family-owned business loved by many, specializing in bespoke linen textiles and clothing that’s ethically and locally made in small batches. The stonewashed and softened linen comes in a number of sizes for all genders, including a loungewear line. With maximum prices of $217, you can add this shop to your list for affordable apparel (and even linen bedding). MagicLinen ships internationally for free on orders over $100 — so you can wear these special styles anywhere.

    Customer Review | “Beautiful dress, linen is of excellent quality, the color is just as expected and the dress fits well. Considering how far the dress had to travel, I received it in a very timely manner.” – Beverly R. (Read all reviews.)


    2. Quince

    Budget friendly
    Eco friendly packaging
    Natural materials
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Plastic/Pfas free
    Size inclusive

    Best For | Linen jumpsuits
    Size Range | XS – XL
    Price | $25 (tee) – $90 (dress/blazer)

    Quince offers some of the world’s most luxurious fabrics at super-affordable price points, including its linen collection. Find linen staples including boxy tees, drawstring shorts, and short-sleeved dresses here, in neutral colors perfect for any wardrobe. Quince also partners with ethical factories around the world and manages its supply chain in-house to guarantee the best prices. For more insights on the quality of this affordable clothing brand, we’ve personally reviewed a variety of Quince pieces and loved its minimal, everyday aesthetic! 

    Customer Review | “Great blouse! I love the color and the quality. Buy yourself the linen blouse it’s very nice!” – Pamela (Read all reviews.)


    3. Love and Confuse

    Budget friendly
    Family owned
    Handcrafted
    Made to order
    Natural materials
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Recycled materials
    Small business

    Best For | Linen bottoms
    Size Range | XS – XL
    Price | $79 (tank) – $171 (slip dress)

    Love and Confuse knows we don’t have to choose between style and sustainability. Its gorgeous line of linen tops, dresses, and pants are made ethically by this family-run business and packaged with recycled materials. Cut, sewn, and made to order, you can select from dozens of styles in nearly any color, made just for you — all through its Etsy shop. And at a price point that maxes out at around $171, it’s worth checking out — especially since Love and Confuse offers international shipping and touts almost 10,000 positive reviews.

    Customer Review | “This is my second purchase from this shop. Beautiful quality and craftsmanship of all the garments I have purchased. Deciding on a color is always difficult because all of the colors are gorgeous. The white is not see through. Shipped and arrived quickly. Thanks again!” – Joslyn (Read all reviews.)


    4. Reformation

    Circular fashion
    Climate neutral
    Eco friendly packaging
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Recycled materials
    Size inclusive
    Woman owned

    Best For | Chic linen pieces
    Size Range | XSP – 3X
    Price | $58 (crop tank) – $348 (two-piece set)

    For chic, trendy styles and unique cuts of linen you won’t find elsewhere, Reformation is your spot. Each item showcases the carbon footprint (and savings!) during the making of each piece with each linen item intentionally designed to last long in your closet. Reformation is also Climate Neutral, helping remove more emissions than they produce. Whether you’re seeking essential staples, workwear pieces, romantic silhouettes, or vintage-inspired looks, you’re sure to find that linen item you’ll be reaching for daily. 


    5. EILEEN FISHER

    B corp
    Circular fashion
    Fair trade
    Natural materials
    Second hand
    Size inclusive
    Woman owned

    Best For | Extended sizes
    Size Range | PP – 3X
    Price | $88 (tank) – $288 ( dress)

    In the market for sustainable and stylish linen? Look no further than EILEEN FISHER. The ethically made, 100 percent organic linen apparel is made to last. Shipping globally, EILEEN FISHER’s neutral pieces can be mixed and matched for an effortless work-to-weekend wardrobe. Our top picks include the jackets, trousers, and the weightless dresses (see why we’re wearing EF this summer!). Its linen collection has been sourced via organic farming and dyed naturally, and for more accessible prices, you can check out its secondhand shop. The right texture, the right fit, and the right ethics.

    Our Editor’s Review | “I felt like I might immediately receive an invitation to a cocktail party (in Capri?) when slipping these on. It’s one of those pieces whose absence I retroactively missed in my wardrobe. In other words, where have these pants been all my life?” – Ashley D’Arcy, Senior Editor [Read her full review.]


    6. Everlane

    Budget friendly
    Eco friendly packaging
    GOTS certified
    Natural materials
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Recycled materials
    Size inclusive

    Best For | Office-appropriate linen clothing
    Size Range | XXS – XXL
    Price Range | $98 (top) – $188 (midi dress)

    TGT fave Everlane is usually top of mind for denim, but did you know the brand has a killer linen line as well? From button downs to dresses to trousers and more, cool down your workwear for warmer months without compromising on style. The high quality linen looks are classic, low-maintenance, and ethically made, the perfect edition to any professional summer capsule.

    Customer Review | “The pants drape beautifully. The high waist band is wide and set off the top to create a great trouser look. I’ve dressed them up and down. I’ve washed them, hung dry, looked great with no iron.” – vogephil (Read all reviews.)


    7. Rujuta Sheth

    BIPOC Owned
    Circular fashion
    Eco friendly packaging
    Fair trade
    Gives back
    Handcrafted
    Natural materials
    Recycled materials
    Size inclusive
    Small business
    Woman owned

    Best For | Colorful, patterned linen clothing
    Size Range | XS – 4XL
    Price Range | $125 (crop top) – $225 (pants)

    Rujuta Sheth’s linen-cotton pieces blend natural fiber with timeless craftsmanship and modern design. Designed in New York and handcrafted in India, each garment reflects the brand’s deep roots in traditional artistry, while embracing contemporary, wearable silhouettes. Easy to care for at home, these bright and colorful pieces are machine washable and can be tumble-dried low, making them super wearable. Rujuta’s commitment to sustainability runs through every step of the process, from sourcing organic and handwoven textiles to preserving heritage techniques that support skilled artisans.

    Customer Review | “I’ve been struggling to find pants that are loose and lightweight for the summer, but these are perfect. So easy to wear, they don’t make me feel too warm, and I love the color. Definitely would purchase more of these if I saw other colors that worked well with my style.” – Miranda B. (Read all reviews.)


    8. Linenfox

    Eco friendly packaging
    Fair trade
    Handcrafted
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Small business

    Best For | Heavy linen
    Size Range | XXS – XXL
    Price | $57 (baby romper) – $174 (robe)

    Since 2014, the team behind Linenfox has been crafting linen garments that are sustainable, beautifully designed, and ethically made. With 1000+ apparel options (including jumpsuits, tunics, and even aprons), you’ll find any kind of piece you need, all at a cost-effective price. Made in Lithuania, pieces ships internationally (and carbon-neutral!) and use eco-friendly packaging for some of the most low-impact apparel around. Not sure if you’re ready to add to your cart? Check out the 22K+ customer reviews on Etsy!

    Customer Review | “Such a beautiful blouse for the warmer weather! its really lovely. the product came also much faster than anticipated! I truly love linenfox…never disappoints” – Tamara (Read all reviews.)


    9. Kotn

    B corp
    Biodegradable
    Budget friendly
    Eco friendly packaging
    Gives back
    Natural materials
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Plastic/Pfas free
    Size inclusive

    Best For | Unisex linen clothing
    Size Range | XS – XL
    Price | $98 (shorts) – $148 (button-down shirt)

    Did you know one of our favorite brands for Egyptian cotton, Kotn, also sells ethically-made linen staples? Crafted from gutsy linen with a rich texture that softens over time, Kotn’s linen clothing offers not just timeless style but also unmatched breathability. Ethically made in Portugal and Egypt, each garment honors both the craft and the communities behind them. Kotn goes beyond fashion — each purchase supports education, infrastructure, and sustainable growth in underserved regions. Read our editor’s review on some of our favorite summer looks from Kotn, and see why this B Corp is one of our favorites for fashion-forward design!

    Customer Review | “Incredible fabric and design! If you’re looking for the perfect trouser shorts, these are it! The fit is true to size.” – Heather F. (Read all reviews.)


    10. menique

    Biodegradable
    Cruelty free
    Eco friendly packaging
    Handcrafted
    Made to order
    Natural materials
    OEKO-TEX® certified
    Plastic/Pfas free

    Best For | Linen basics
    Size Range | XS – XL
    Price | $60 (slip top) – $230 (two-piece shirt & pants set)

    If breathability, comfort, and durability is your requirement, check out menique’s extensive collection of linen goodies! Each made with 100% linen that’s naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial, these linen staples can be safely worn for those with allergies, who are pregnant, and elderly folks. You’ll notice each menique linen item is static free, retains its natural properties after use, and is thermoregulating for wear in any type of weather. The best part is many of the linen garments are made to order by hand, avoiding fabric wastage! Expect your order to be ready between 1 – 3 weeks with delivery within 6 – 12 days! 

    Customer Review | “Super super nice quality. I found menique accidentally and now I am thinking where was this whole time because I want to buy everything from here. It’s my first linen pants and I can’t believe how comfy they are. Looking forward to my next shopping :)” – Kamila (Read all reviews.)


    11. Míe

    BIPOC Owned
    Made to order
    Natural materials
    Size inclusive
    Small business
    Woman owned

    Best For | Statement linen pieces
    Size Range | XS – 3X; custom sizing available
    Price | $95 (bandeau top) – $450 (maxi skirt)

    Whether or not you find yourself at a resort this summer, invite that same energy by wearing one of Míe’s elegant linen dresses or matching sets. We adore the details of each garment: puff sleeves, playful ties, and timeless colors make for the perfect long-lasting statement piece. All of Míe’s pieces are handmade-to-order by local seamstresses in Nigeria, where the brand is based (be sure to get on the pre-order list!). The brand ships worldwide.


    Featured image is from Quince