The best linen pants for women
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Rebecca Strong/Business Insider
As a native New Englander whose personal style falls somewhere between cozy and coastal chic — very Nancy Meyers-coded — nothing gets me more excited for warm weather than slipping into a great pair of linen pants. The best linen pants strike that elusive balance between polished and relaxed, making them one of the most versatile staples in any summer wardrobe. They're lightweight, breathable, and easy to style, whether you're heading to the office, running errands, packing for a beach vacation, or dressing for a casual dinner out. In other words, a really good pair of linen pants can do it all.
Of course, finding the best linen pants isn't always so simple. I've tried pairs that felt stiff and scratchy, others that were too sheer to wear confidently, and plenty that wrinkled the second I sat down. Since most shoppers don't have the time — or budget — to sift through dozens of options, I did the testing for you. I tried more than a dozen best-selling linen pants and evaluated each pair for comfort, fit, durability, breathability, and versatility. Whether you're looking for wide-leg linen pants for travel, an easy pull-on style for weekends, or a polished linen trouser you can wear on repeat, these are the best linen pants worth adding to your cart.
For more of our favorite pants coverage, see our articles on the best travel pants, the best work pants for women, and more.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider, Eileen Fisher
What we love: Available in petite sizing and up to 3X, elastic waistband, machine washable
Why it might not work for you: Ankle length may not hit at the right spot for taller people
Eileen Fisher's Organic Linen Wide-Leg Pant earns our top spot by delivering a rare mix of comfort, polish, and versatility. So if you're only buying one pair of linen pants, the Organic Linen Wide-Leg Pants are the one to beat.
While some elastic-waist pants look inherently casual, these are actually pretty easy to dress up. Despite having the flexibility and comfort of my favorite leggings, they look remarkably elegant — particularly when paired with heeled mule sandals, open-toe slingbacks, or platform espadrilles. The pants also hang nicely on the body, with a fit that's slimmer through the hips and then oh-so-gradually widens through the legs.
"These are my favorite linen pants," says style editor Samantha Crozier. "Most linen pants skew too casual, too sheer, or too shapeless; this Eileen Fisher pair stands out for its polished drape, easy fit, and versatile medium-weight linen that works for everything from travel days to office outfits. Plus, the material isn't itchy or too see-through — common pitfalls of lower-quality linen."
The Organic Linen Wide-Leg Pants come in sizes XXS through 3X (as well as petite petite through petite large). This mid-weight, pull-on style is crisp and comfy with a high-quality construction.
Eileen Fisher continues to be our favorite brand for high-quality basics because of the premium materials and ultra-wearable silhouettes, which these pants embody.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider, Quince
What we love: Elastic waistband, pockets, 8 color options, machine washable, sustainably grown linen
Why it might not work for you: Only one inseam option (around 25.75")
Finding 100% linen pants that cost under $100 is no easy feat — most budget-friendly pairs are made with linen blends that incorporate cheaper fabrics. That's what makes this pair from Quince stand out: it's made solely from high-quality, sustainably grown linen and carries a $42 price tag.
A lot of linen pants feature a wide leg that, if not designed thoughtfully, can look shapeless and unflattering. What sets Quince's 100% European Linen Tapered Ankle Pants apart is that the leg gradually narrows toward the bottom, resulting in a sleeker, more streamlined silhouette.
Not only are these pants machine-washable, but they're versatile, too. I can easily dress them up with chunky wedges and statement earrings, or down with a fitted tee and flat sandals. (Personally, I love pairing them with Quince's 100% Linen Halter Top for a monochromatic, Parisian it girl aesthetic).
The only snag is that these pants aren't available in multiple lengths, but based on reviews from other customers across a range of heights, it seems like the just-under-26-inch inseam strikes an ideal compromise for most.
See our full Quince review for our thoughts on over 60 different Quince products.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider, Aritzia
What we love: Elastic back waist, both back and front pockets, belt loops, wrinkle-resistant
Why it might not work for you: Dry clean only, one inseam option
My main gripe with linen pants is that they can sometimes look a bit frumpy by the end of the day — blame it on the fact that they tend to wrinkle and lose their shape very quickly. That definitely doesn't fly in professional situations. But thankfully, Aritzia's Babaton New Agency Pant in PowerLinen dodges these issues, thanks to the unique blended fabric that fuses naturally textured linen with a special eco-friendly viscose. With a classic high-waisted, wide-leg fit, these trousers are undeniably flattering, drape like a dream, and resist wrinkling surprisingly well.
By far my favorite feature on these pants is the hidden elastic in the back of the waist. This offers the best of both worlds, maximizing comfort while also maintaining a tailored look. The belt loops unlock new styling possibilities, too.
There's only one inseam option for these pants, but it ranges proportionally by size and seems like a reasonable length for anyone between 5'2 and 5'7. I found them to be the perfect length with a modest 2.5- to 3-inch heel.
Note: The Aritzia Effortless Pant in CruiseLinen gets an honorable mention, too — while these don't feature the elastic-back waist, they are machine washable and equally wrinkle-resistant. You should also check out my full review of the Aritzia Effortless Pant.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider, American Eagle
What we love: Adjustable waistband with elastic, side pockets and back pockets, stretchy, machine washable
Why it might not work for you: One inseam option, low rise isn't for everyone
We've all been there: You do one final fit check in the mirror, step into your car, and those linen pants that looked so polished mere seconds ago are already wrinkled. Because linen is made from stiff flax fibers with virtually no elasticity, it doesn't snap back into shape easily. One way around this is to blend linen with other fabrics, which is what American Eagle cleverly did with these Stretch Low-Rise Linen-Blend Pull-On Pants.
The addition of cotton, rayon, and elastane not only makes the pants feel super soft but also helps keep them relatively wrinkle-free. That makes them an ideal piece to pack in your suitcase. And because they feature a touch of stretch and a drawstring waistband, they're comfy enough to wear even for long-haul flights — but you also won't have to worry about looking sloppy when you arrive at your final destination.
As a general rule, I avoid low-rise pants like the plague (hey, I'm a millennial and I barely survived the early 2000s unscathed). However, I have to say these pants pleasantly surprised me. They still offer a reasonable amount of coverage, and thanks to the adjustable waistband, I never had any sagging or slipping.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider, Garnet Hill
What we love: Petite length option, belt loops, front and back pockets, pre-washed, certified European flax, machine washable
Why it might not work for you: No stretch, slightly snug in the thigh
You'll be hard-pressed to find a more universally flattering silhouette than a mid-rise, straight-leg trouser — like the Garnet Hill Classic Linen Trousers. The rise is just high enough to feel supportive, and the leg strikes that just-right compromise between slim and baggy. Plus, they come in a variety of timeless shades like chambray blue, navy, and sand — a stunning soft neutral that emulates raw, unbleached flax.
These aren't just made with any linen, either — they're constructed of certified European flax, which comes with a third-party guarantee of high quality, and are produced with ethical and eco-friendly practices.
Sometimes linen can feel a bit scratchy on first wear, but these pants are garment-washed for superior softness — and trust me, you can really feel the difference the first time you slip them on. The 28-inch petite inseam is perfect for shorties like me (under 5'4), whether I wear them with low heels or flats, and I also appreciate the belt loops for when I want to accessorize to add some visual and textural contrast.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider
What we love: Removable belt, just enough stretch, pockets, two different length options, easy care
Why it might not work for you: No "tall" inseam (for those 5'9 and above)
I generally subscribe to the notion that you can't have it all — but Everlane proved me wrong here. The Wide-Leg Belted Pant in Stretch Linen looks structured, yet feels incredibly soft and stretchy thanks to the addition of viscose and elastane.
The skinny belt definitely elevates these pants, but I also love that it's removable — giving me the ultimate styling flexibility to swap it out for, say, a bolder skinny leather belt or to skip it altogether when I want a more casual, streamlined look.
The pants come in two different length options, too. I'm 5'3 and I found the shorter option (30") to be perfect whether I wore flats or heels — a huge advantage considering I'm used to bringing all my pants to the tailor to be hemmed.
One last perk worth mentioning, because we love a low-maintenance pair of trousers: Unlike some linen pants, these can be tossed in the washing machine as well as the dryer.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider, Target
What we love: Size-inclusive, budget-friendly, adjustable drawstring waist, pockets, lightweight, relatively wrinkle-resistant, machine washable
Why it might not work for you: Not much stretch, relaxed leg may look baggy on some, 31" inseam may be too long if you're under 5'5
You don't, in fact, have to shell out a fortune for linen pants — case in point: These Wild Fable Low-Rise Baggy Leg Linen Pull-On Pants are only $30, but they look far more expensive.
I bought two pairs of these last summer at the height of my pregnancy, and thanks to the adjustable waistband, I still managed to accommodate my ever-growing belly but still fit flawlessly after I had my baby. These pants are comfy enough to throw on with a tank for casual brunches and stroller walks, but with the right jewelry and footwear, they can also work for dinner out at the resort.
They also come in a much wider size range than most, from XXS to 4X. Another factor worth highlighting? Because they're made of a linen blend with rayon, these pants have a flowier drape and are way less likely to wrinkle.
Rebecca Strong/Business Insider, Athleta
What we love: Available in three different lengths, machine washable, quick drying, elastic waist, zip pockets, 100% European Flax™ Linen
Why it might not work for you: Wrinkles easily
I've resisted the barrel pant trend for a while now — what can I say? As a traditionalist, the bowed-out shape always struck me as unflattering. But I can confidently say I'm a full convert after trying the Retreat Linen Easy Barrel Crop Pant from Athleta. The laid-back, slouchy silhouette oozes an effortless cool factor — just make sure to pair them with a more fitted top to achieve some visual balance.
Athleta is one of my go-to petite clothing brands. But regardless of your height, you definitely don't have to worry about altering these pants — because they come in petite, regular, and tall inseams alike. These pants not only feature pockets — an absolute must for me — but the pockets zip closed so I don't have to stress about losing my keys, phone, card holder, or other important items.
I know these pants will definitely be a go-to during the hotter months, too: Thanks to the quick-drying 100% linen construction and relaxed fit leg that promotes airflow, I'm bound to stay cool no matter the temps.
1) Fabric: 100% linen vs linen blends
Whether you opt for 100% linen pants or a linen blend ultimately comes down to your budget and priorities.
The main advantage of 100% linen pants is that they're naturally moisture-wicking and breathable — but on the flip side, they also wrinkle super quickly and may feel a little stiff until you've washed them a few times.
Pants made with linen blends — which may include viscose, rayon, cotton, lyocell, and/or elastane — are sometimes more affordable, feel softer upon first wear, and are less prone to wrinkling and shrinking. However, there are drawbacks to blends — namely, that because the material is usually denser, it isn't as breathable and tends to trap heat.
The bottom line? If you want an easy-care, budget-friendly option for transitional seasons, linen blends are a good choice. But if you're looking for pants that you can wear on a sweltering summer's day, you'll want to go for 100% linen.
2) Fabric weight and opacity
- What makes linen go sheer
- Tips: look for heavier weaves, darker colors, lining, and tighter weave
One of the most common pet peeves with linen pants is that they tend to be pretty sheer — especially in white or lighter shades. That's why it's important to pay attention to the weight of the weave. Thinner linen that's woven very loosely is more likely to look sheer, whereas mid- to heavy-weight linen with a tighter weave typically doesn't come with the same opacity issues.
And while it may go without saying, pants in dark colors — or that are lined — will offer a lot more coverage, too.
3) Waistband and closure
One factor that drastically impacts how dressy linen pants look — and how comfortable they feel — is the waistband.
Obviously, elastic waistbands are tough to beat in terms of comfort — but they lean a bit casual, limiting where you can wear them.
A fixed or structured waistband has a cleaner tailored aesthetic, making pants a bit more suitable for professional situations.
And then there's also a happy medium — a flat front with an elastic back. These styles offer the best of both worlds: a polished look with sneaky stretch that you can't see from the front.
Drawstrings make the waistband adjustable, which is obviously helpful for achieving a more secure, customized fit (or getting a little much-needed breathing room after a big meal). It's worth noting, though, that external drawstrings give linen pants a decidedly relaxed look that may not work for more formal settings. An internal drawstring, which isn't visible on the outside, offers a nice compromise.
4) Care and shrinkage
Raw linen is notoriously prone to shrinking and wrinkling, and tends to feel somewhat stiff at least initially. Pre-washed linen, on the other hand, has a softer broken-in feel, and won't shrink as much.
Caring for your linen pants properly can go a long way in making them last longer. Most linen pants are machine washable, and some can even be tossed in the dryer on low. That said, when in doubt, consider air-drying your pants. High heat not only causes shrinkage, but can also break down the fibers over time.
As for getting those inevitable wrinkles out, always opt for a steamer over ironing whenever possible. This method applies heat more gently and indirectly, eliminating harsh creases without flattening the fibers or leaving scorch marks behind.
In between sizes, concerned about your pants shrinking, or prefer a more relaxed fit? It can be worth sizing up, especially if you're in between sizes or the pants don't feature any stretch. However, keep in mind that linen does often stretch out — so if they feel a bit snug the first time you slip them on, they may fit just right after you wear them for a little while.
What are the best linen pants for women?
The best linen pants for women are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, but still polished enough to wear beyond the beach. A great pair should feel soft against the skin, offer enough coverage to avoid looking too sheer, and have a fit that works for everything from travel days to casual office outfits. The Eileen Fisher Organic Linen Wide-Leg Pant has all of these qualities.
Are 100% linen pants better than linen-blend pants?
Not always. Pure linen tends to feel the most breathable and classic, while linen blends can be softer, wrinkle less, and offer a bit more structure or stretch. The right choice comes down to whether you prioritize that traditional airy linen feel or easier day-to-day wear.
Do linen pants wrinkle a lot?
Yes, linen naturally wrinkles more than many other fabrics, but that relaxed texture is part of its appeal. The best linen pants wrinkle in a way that still looks effortless rather than sloppy, and linen blends usually hold up a little better throughout the day. There are a few picks on this list, like the Babaton New Agency Pant in PowerLinen, that are designed to resist wrinkles.
Are linen pants good for hot weather?
Absolutely. Linen is one of the best fabrics for warm weather because it's breathable, lightweight, and helps keep you cool on hot, humid days. That's why linen pants are such a staple for summer wardrobes, vacations, and heat waves.
Can women wear linen pants to work?
Yes, especially when the pair has a tailored fit, thicker fabric, or trouser-inspired details like pleats or a structured waistband. Wide-leg linen trousers in darker or neutral shades tend to look the most office-appropriate. The Babaton New Agency Pant in PowerLinen is our pick for work because they offer the look of linen with the structure and wrinkle-resistance of traditional slacks.
How do you wash linen pants?
Most linen pants can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle in cold water, then air-dried or tumble-dried on low, but it's always best to check the care label first. Steaming usually works better than ironing for smoothing wrinkles without making the fabric feel stiff.