Linen is the fabric of long summer days, but there is no reason to pack it away the moment the evenings cool down. With a few simple layers, your favourite pieces can carry you well into autumn.
1. Layer a knit over your dress
A loose linen dress looks beautiful with a cropped cardigan or a chunky knit thrown over the top. Keep the knit in an earthy tone, like oat, caramel or moss, so the look stays soft and relaxed.
2. Belt it
A simple leather or woven belt at the waist gives shape to a smock dress and makes it feel more put together. It also lets you wear the same dress over a fine-knit turtleneck once it gets colder.
3. Swap sandals for boots
Nothing changes the mood of a summer dress faster than a pair of ankle boots. Chunky lace-ups feel casual and grounded; a slim heeled boot makes it ready for dinner.
Caring for linen
Wash on a gentle, cool cycle and hang to dry. A few creases are part of the charm, so skip the iron and give it a shake instead.
