Clodagh McKenna's linen dress is the chic reminder that when it comes to summer style, classic shapes and natural fibres reign supreme
Hot weather? We're ready for you
Clodagh McKenna might be known for her love of bright colour, bold patterns and classic denim, but even Clodagh knows that when it comes to what to wear in the heat, nothing beats a white linen sundress. A timeless summer capsule wardrobe piece, this is a frock that can be worn year after year, and will always ensure you keep cool and stylish.
To announce the upcoming release of her 10th cookbook, Clodagh at Home, she took to Instagram wearing Reformation’s Balia linen dress. The vintage-inspired design featured romantic ruching at the neckline, a fitted bodice and a fully floaty skirt, oh, and it had pockets, too.
Crafted from 100% linen, this was one of the best summer dresses, especially as the past couple of weeks have been so hot, as the natural fibre ensures the dress is beautifully breathable.
Clodagh's Reformation dress can be styled in so many ways, whether you opt for subtlety like she did with minimalist gold jewellery and bare feet (or you can slip into your most comfortable sandals) or you dress it up with some kitten heels and a statement necklace.
Sleeveless and with a high-sitting crew neckline, seam details that bring movement to the floaty, loose-fitting, and flattering A-line shape and add enough detailing to elevate the design.
A linen shirt dress is possibly one of the most classic silhouettes you can add to your summer wardrobe. With great coverage and a timelessly elegant shape, this sale buy is a winner.
A coordinating tie belt allows you to wear this linen-blend dress cinched or loose-fitting at the waist, with roomy pockets adding a practical touch to the design.
A scooped neckline with subtle pleated details and a ribbon at the centre give this linen-blend dress from Uniqlo a similar, timeless look to Clodagh's Reformation piece.
Timeless and with charmingly subtle floral embroidery on the bodice, this Mint Velvet midi dress is one that will never age. A linen-blend, you get airiness with less creasing.
Whatever the spring/summer fashion trends for 2026 are, the white midi dress defies the runways and is a piece that will always be in fashion. Timeless, elegant and easy to dress up or down, it's little wonder that Clodagh favoured such a classic silhouette for her big announcement.
With a penchant for vintage styling, a white linen dress is wearable for almost any occasion this summer (bar, of course, someone else's wedding), but it makes a great option for summer workwear and can easily be accessorised with any of the fashion colour trends for 2026, to give your frock a more timely feel and bolder finish.
Linen and cotton are both excellent choices when it comes to dresses, as the natural fabrics are highly breathable, keeping you cooler in rising climes, and over the last few weeks, we've needed all the help we can get keeping our outfits breezy.
