The cool trouser style of the season to shop now

striped linen trousers
Striped linen trousers are our hero summer stapleEdward Berthelot - Getty Images

Linen trousers are a staple in all of our hot weather wardrobes. Chic, comfortable and a breeze to dress up or down for office days, holidays and BBQs, we couldn't do summer dressing without them. Plain neutrals will always be stylish – cream and black pairs are just so brilliantly versatile – but this season, it's all about the stripe.

That's right, one quick scroll through fashion Instagram and you'll see striped linen trousers on all your favourite editors and influencers. They go with everything, especially if you opt for classic black, beige or grey tones, while we also love a nautical blue and white stripe.

In terms of the cut, think about when you're most likely to wear them. We love a wide-leg, which can look either laidback or polished depending on whether you opt for an elasticated or belted waistband. Or, if you're shopping for summer workwear or a linen suit, you may prefer a cigarette or tapered leg. Cropped styles, meanwhile can be a fun replacement for maxi skirts.

Worried about looking crumpled? It's just a fact that linen creases badly, so we say: accept it in the name of nonchalent chic, especially as it's such a sustainable fabric (it needs far less water and pesticides to grow than, say, cotton). If you're not sold, look for a synthetic blend which irons more easily.

The best part about buying into the striped linen trousers trend – their timelessness aside – is that you can team them with the shirts and blouses you've been wearing with jeans all spring. They're perfect partners for a simple white T-shirt, and we're big fans of the striped linen trousers and waistcoat combo for a fresh feel that the fashion set love. Or, of course, go for a co-ord! Then, just add sandals.

On cooler days (after all, we've had plenty of those so far this summer), simply throw on your go-to blazer to keep things sharp, or a sweater for a casual look, and swap out your open-toe shoes for trainers or ballet flats. Don't forget to pack your striped linen trousers for holiday, too. They're ideal for pulling on over your swimwear to go from beach to bar.

Ready to shop? Let us first draw your attention to Arket's striped linen trousers, currently £40 in the sale, which are arguably *the* striped linen trousers to buy (and have been for a few summers now). I've just bought some in the black and white stripe, and frankly I'm finding it hard to wear anything else during this current heatwave. I also took them to Sicily in May and they were the hardest-working piece in my 'tourdrobe', paired with lightweight tees and Birks. The elasticated drawstring weight was particularly appreciated while eating my body weight in pasta, arancini and gelato.

OK, I can't resist, I'm buying these too before they sell out again...

Then let's leave you with a few more pairs of our favourite striped linen trousers...


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