Build a Linen Capsule Wardrobe: Easy Sewing Patterns to Try

Linen is one of my absolute favorite fabrics—especially in the summer. There's just something about that beautiful rumpled texture (yes, rumpled—not creased!) that screams effortless style. Whether you picture East Coast "coastal grandma" chic or a breezy Southern garden party vibe, linen just feels right.

Linen is a natural fiber, which means it’s breathable, wicks moisture away from your skin, and presses like a dream. Yes, it wrinkles—but in a good way. I like to think of it as "old money wrinkles." If you're worried about it being too fussy, let me reassure you: linen is one of the easiest fabrics to sew with. If you’ve made a couple of garments and you’re ready for your next step, I’d highly recommend you sew with linen. It behaves well, holds its shape, and feels amazing against the skin once it softens up in the wash.

Speaking of washing—when I get new linen fabric, I toss it right in the washer and dryer before cutting. But after the garment is made, I switch to air drying and give it a little steam or a light press to freshen it up. That’s it!

Building a Linen Capsule Wardrobe

Now let’s talk about what to make! I pulled together a little capsule wardrobe idea—seven pieces, all perfect for sewing with linen. If you're new around here, I love planning my wardrobe in modules (thank you, Christie Ressel, for this genius concept). The idea is three tops, two bottoms, one layering piece, and a one-piece garment like a dress or jumpsuit. Everything coordinates, so you get tons of outfit combinations from just a handful of pieces.

This time, I made it even more summer-friendly by skipping the layering piece (who needs layers when it's this hot?) and adding both a dress and a jumpsuit. I even snuck in a few bonus patterns—because I couldn’t help myself. Read on or watch the video version here: 

Three Easy Linen Tops

Let’s start with tops. First up is the Love Notions Aria*—a classic button-up that I made in a gorgeous coral linen. It’s slightly oversized, comfy, and perfect with shorts. I love rolling up the sleeves when it’s sweltering out, but also appreciate that I can pull them down for a little extra sun protection. Bonus points: you can tie it up, wear it open as a light layer, or tuck it in for a polished look.

Next is the Pattern Emporium Sweet Talker Bubble Sleeve Top*. I’ve made this one in cotton, but it would be divine in linen—especially if you use a fun gingham or add embroidery. The sleeves are the star here, and the pattern comes with different front pieces to accommodate various bust sizes (hallelujah for no full bust adjustments!).

The third top is the Closet Core Cielo, which I’m actually wearing as I write this. Mine mixes two linens—solid in the front and a fun textured linen in the back and sleeves. This pattern is easy to sew, super comfortable, and can even be made into a dress. It's one of those woven tops that you'll reach for again and again.

Bonus top alert: If you want a great tank option, check out the Cashmerette Thorndyke (especially if it’s still July 2025—you can get it through the club this month!). I’ve made a few already, including two in linen, and they are chef’s kiss for hot weather.

Two Bottoms Made for Linen

For bottoms, I kept it simple and practical: shorts and a skirt. The Itch to Stitch Belize Shorts* are my go-to linen shorts pattern. I’ve made three pairs, all in linen, and they’re in constant rotation. They have a flat front and elastic back, deep pockets, and are polished enough for brunch but comfy enough for lounging.

As for the skirt, I went with the Stay Stitch Pattern Company Coco Bias Skirt. It’s sleek and breezy in linen, and the bias cut means it skims beautifully without feeling clingy. I’ve worn it to church, out to lunch, and just about everywhere else. It has elastic, but it’s hidden in the waistband facing—so it’s stylish and sneaky-comfy.

One-Piece Wonders

You know I couldn’t resist adding a jumpsuit and a dress to round things out.

The Seamwork Dell Jumpsuit* is perfect in linen. Jenni made this one and looked amazing in it. (Pro tip: pre-wash your fabric and air-dry the finished garment—her husband accidentally shrunk hers in the dryer!) The Dell is loose, cool, and so comfy you’ll forget you’re wearing clothes. It has elastic in the straps and slips right on—ideal for those days when even your skin feels hot.

Finally, the Cashmerette Holyoke Dress* is summer in garment form. It has thick straps for bra coverage, a button front (real or faux), and an elastic back waist that keeps things flattering and comfy. I’ve made mine in viscose, but I’m dreaming of one in a solid linen. Italian countryside, here I come!

Where to Find Great Linen

Wondering where to get quality linen? Here are a few favorites:

• In the U.S.: The Sewing Studio, Stylemaker Fabrics, University of Sewing, fabrics-store.com

• Canada: Blackbird Fabrics, Core Fabrics

• UK: Guthrie & Ghani, Fabric Godmother

• Australia & New Zealand: The Fabric Store, The Cloth Edit

• Everywhere: Minerva*—they now carry 100% linen in their exclusive prints!

Don't forget to check my Resources page for discount codes on fabrics and patterns.

If you've been hesitant to try linen, I hope this post encourages you to give it a go. It's so beginner-friendly and rewarding to sew with, and wearing it just feels like summer. Embrace the rumple—it’s part of the charm.

And don’t forget, if you need a little guidance, I have sewing classes and fabric guides that’ll walk you through everything you need to get started.

Would you like some additional inspiration?  Some patterns are still my favorites!

 So go on—sew with linen. Your summer wardrobe will thank you.

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