By That Girl Whitney Team
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When the temperature climbs, jeans start to feel like a punishment. Shorts are an option, but they’re not always right for the office or a nice dinner. Linen pants fill that gap. They keep you cool in serious heat and look polished enough for almost any summer plan.
Linen is one of the most breathable fabrics you can wear. It’s made from flax fibers that let air move through and dry quickly when you sweat. That makes linen pants a favorite for hot climates and travel.
For plus size women, the right pair of linen pants can solve a lot of summer wardrobe problems. A wide leg keeps air moving and prevents chafing, and an elastic or drawstring waist stays comfortable all day. The wrong pair, though, can be see-through or fit awkwardly through the hips. Linen’s reputation for wrinkling scares some people off, but a blend or a little steam keeps it looking fresh.
This guide explains what to look for in plus size linen pants, then shares four easy ways to style them this summer.
What to Look For in Linen Pants
Start with fabric content. Pure linen is the most breathable but wrinkles the most. Linen blends mixed with cotton or rayon wrinkle less and feel softer, while still keeping you cool. If you hate ironing, a blend is the easier choice.
Check for opacity. Light colors like white and beige can be see-through, especially in thin linen. Look for pants described as lined or made from medium-weight linen, and read reviews for comments about sheerness.
The waistband matters for comfort. An elastic or drawstring waist adjusts to your body and stays comfortable through a long day. A flat front with elastic at the back gives you a more tailored look with the same comfort.
Check the rise as well. A mid or high rise keeps the waistband from rolling and gives your top a clean place to tuck. Low-rise linen pants tend to slip down when you walk, which pulls the fabric tight across your seat.
Pockets are a bonus. Deep side pockets make linen pants practical for travel and errands.
Cuts That Work for Plus Size Bodies
Wide-leg linen pants are the most popular choice. They let air circulate and create a long, flowing line. They look polished with sandals and a tucked-in top.
Palazzo pants have an even wider leg and a dramatic, flowy look. They’re perfect for vacations and beach dinners.
Straight-leg linen pants look more tailored and work well for the office. Choose a relaxed straight leg so the fabric doesn’t pull across your thighs.
Cropped linen pants hit above the ankle and look fresh with sandals or sneakers. They’re a good choice if you’re petite or want a more casual look. If you’re tall, check our tall plus size pants guide for full-length options.
Whichever cut you choose, check the inseam. Wide-leg and palazzo styles look best when the hem nearly grazes the floor in your usual shoes, so a too-short pair loses that long line.
Shop it: LONGYUAN wide leg palazzo or Lastshe drawstring palazzo
Four Ways to Style Linen Pants
With a fitted tank. Pair wide-leg linen pants with a fitted tank or bodysuit for a balanced look. Add sandals and simple gold jewelry for an easy summer outfit.
With a button-down shirt. A crisp cotton or linen shirt, tucked in or knotted at the waist, makes linen pants work for the office or a nice lunch.
With a matching linen top. Linen sets look intentional and polished. Wear the pieces together as a set or split them up with other items in your closet.
With a T-shirt and sneakers. For errands and casual days, pair linen pants with a fitted tee and white sneakers. Our plus size casual outfits guide shares more easy weekend formulas.
Shoes change each look. Flat sandals keep linen pants relaxed, while wedges add height for dinner.
Shop it: Eytino two-piece wide leg set
Caring for Linen So It Lasts
Linen gets softer with every wash, so a little care goes a long way.
Wash linen in cool water on a gentle cycle. Hot water can shrink it. Hang your pants to dry or tumble dry on low and remove them while slightly damp.
Embrace some wrinkles. Linen naturally wrinkles, and a relaxed look is part of its appeal. If you want a crisper look, steam your pants or iron them while slightly damp on a medium setting.
Store linen pants folded or hung loosely in a breathable space. Avoid packing them tightly in a drawer, which sets deep creases.
Spot-treat stains quickly, since linen absorbs spills fast. Blot with cool water before washing instead of rubbing.
Staying Cool All Summer Long
Plus size linen pants keep you cool and comfortable while still looking put together. Choose a blend if you want fewer wrinkles and a wide leg for airflow. Pair them with tanks or button-downs, and you’ll have a go-to outfit for every hot day on your calendar.
Shop Whitney’s favorite plus size finds on her Amazon storefront. Follow @thatgirlwhitney on Instagram for more plus size outfit ideas.
