I’m a fashion writer and this is the one item I return to every summer

Crisp yet floaty, casual yet effortlessly tailored at the same time, the best linen trousers for women aren’t common to come by, but once acquired, they’re a mainstay in the summer wardrobes of every fashion fan.

Sourcing the perfect pair has been on our radar ever since we spotted them on the Victoria Beckham SS24 runway, paired with a crisp white blouse and some summer sandals, so now the clocks have sprung forward, there’s really no time to waste.

Linen trousers might bring to mind beachy locations and tropical environments, and we admit they are an ideal inclusion for your holiday wardrobe (just roll them, instead of folding, when it comes to packing to avoid creasing!) we confirm that they can also be as versatile as some of the best jeans you own. Linen trousers are integral to creating a slick linen suit look, but they’re just as effective on their own with a simple T-shirt, tank top, linen shirt, swimsuit or otherwise.

Who makes the best linen trousers?

Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR UK’s Senior European Commerce Editor, swears by Reformation’s Olina Linen Pants after testing them for several occasions. They come in six different colourways/patterns and are available in petite fit as well as regular. Win.

Best linen trousers 2024, at a glance:

1. Best linen trousers overall: Olina Linen Pants, £178, Reformation
2. Best stripe linen trousers: Linen Drawstring Trousers, £57, Arket
3. Best white linen trousers: Linen Blend Wide Leg Trousers, £25, Marks & Spencer
4. Best black linen trousers: Tailored Linen-Blend Trousers, £95, COS
5. Best beige linen trousers: Demi Linen Wide Leg Garment Dyed Trousers, £150, Reiss

According to creator guided platform LTK searches for linen trousers are up 1100% this year, and we’re utterly here for it. Neutral-tones and white linen trousers are a summer classic, but 2024 is seeing some up-to-date details that we’re utterly here for. Look for pleated waists alongside casual drawstring versions, tapered designs as well as wide-leg silhouettes, plus newer colourways and patterns including PJ-style stripes, pinks and bright pastels.

We’re also here for linen’s more-sustainable credentials. While cotton is a super thirsty crop that requires epic amounts of water and pesticides to grow (one T-shirt would need 2700 litres to produce – more than the average person drinks in 2 ½ years) linen doesn’t need extra irrigation, making it a less environmentally-impactful fabric choice.

If you’re someone who favours easy outfits – you know the ones… the type that you you can just throw on and go, without having to think too much about – then owning a pair of linen trousers is non-negotiable. Think of linen trousers as summer’s answer to black leggings and you’ll see exactly what all the fuss is about, we promise.

Below, find the 15 best linen trousers for women to wear this summer and beyond.