The office dress code has shifted. In many workplaces, the line between formal and casual has blurred, making room for breathable fabrics, relaxed tailoring and versatile layering. But if there’s one fabric that truly captures ‘effortless yet polished’, it’s linen.

Our signature lagenlook style reimagines linen for everyday life - flowing silhouettes, clever layering, and comfort-first cuts that don’t compromise on style. The good news? With the right pairings, linen can move seamlessly from summer weekends to the workplace.

Here, we’ve put together a capsule of seven office-ready linen looks that balance smart-casual polish with the breezy comfort you know and love. Each one is styled with layering options (for cool mornings or over-enthusiastic office air conditioning) and footwear pairings to complete the outfit.

Look 1: The Linen Shirt Dress with Belted Definition

A shirt dress is a classic office staple, and in linen it feels light, breathable and professional. Choose a neutral tone (think crisp white, dove grey, or deep navy) and cinch the waist with a slim belt to give shape to the lagenlook silhouette.

Layering tip: Pop on a cropped cardigan or a fine-knit jumper for chillier starts, removing it once the office warms up.

Footwear pairing: Pointed loafers or ankle boots instantly elevate the look without feeling overly formal.

Look 2: Wide-Leg Linen Trousers with a Tailored Blazer

Nothing says smart-casual quite like wide-leg linen trousers. Their relaxed drape gives a laid-back vibe, but balance them with a fitted blazer and a tucked-in blouse or camisole for office polish.

Layering tip: Swap the blazer for a boxy linen jacket when meetings are less formal, keeping the proportions in tune with lagenlook styling.

Footwear pairing: Block-heeled sandals in summer, or sleek leather trainers for a contemporary twist.

Look 3: The Linen Tunic Over Slim-Fit Trousers

One of our most-loved looks, the longline linen tunic is perfect for layering. Pair it with slim-fit trousers or cigarette pants for balance - the flowing top against the tailored base.

Layering tip: Add a linen waistcoat or cropped jacket for warmth without overwhelming the look.

Footwear pairing: Ballet flats or slingbacks for summer-ready chic that still feels professional.

Look 4: The Two-Piece Co-Ord

A matching linen top-and-trouser set feels cohesive and work-appropriate while keeping the ease of lagenlook styling. Go for muted shades like charcoal or soft olive for understated elegance.

Layering tip: Break up the monochrome with a contrasting scarf or lightweight jacket.

Footwear pairing: Low block heels or slip-on mules to elongate the silhouette and keep it smart.

Look 5: Linen Pinafore Dress with a Shirt Layer

A pinafore-style linen dress layered over a crisp cotton shirt bridges playful and professional. The structured shirt collar sharpens the relaxed shape of the pinafore, making it ideal for smart-casual offices.

Layering tip: Swap the shirt for a fine turtleneck in cooler months. Add a blazer for boardroom days.

Footwear pairing: Chelsea boots or lace-up brogues ground the look while keeping it office-friendly.

Look 6: Linen Culottes with a Statement Blouse

Culottes in linen bring comfort and airflow, while a bold blouse or structured top keeps the outfit from veering too casual. Look for detailing (puff sleeves, pleats, or a tie-neck) to balance the relaxed cut of the trousers.

Layering tip: A cropped cardigan or soft knit balances proportions while giving you extra warmth.

Footwear pairing: Court shoes or sleek ankle boots lend height and polish.

Look 7: The Layered Lagenlook Ensemble

For our signature office style, embrace full lagenlook layering. Start with a longline linen vest or slip dress, layer over a lightweight linen tunic, and finish with a soft draped jacket. Choose complementary tones (stone, navy and cream) for a professional palette.

Layering tip: This look is inherently layered, so you can simply remove or add pieces depending on office temperature.

Footwear pairing: Minimalist sandals in summer or block-heeled boots in cooler months.

Why Linen Works for the Office

Beyond its breathable comfort, linen is surprisingly versatile in a smart-casual setting:

  • Polished texture: The natural weave adds depth and sophistication.
  • Neutral-friendly palette: Linen shades (from crisp white to muted earthy tones) pair well with office basics.
  • Easy layering: Linen drapes beautifully, making it perfect for the lagenlook layered styling that defines us.
    Seasonless appeal: Cool enough for summer, layerable for winter – linen adapts year-round.

Building Your Own Capsule

With just a handful of key linen pieces - wide-leg trousers, a tunic, a shirt dress, a co-ord, and a layering jacket - you can create multiple office-ready combinations. Mix and match with seasonal accessories, swap shoes from flat to heeled, and you’ll never feel underdressed or overdressed.

The secret is in balance: linen brings softness and ease, while sharper tailoring, structured shoes, and thoughtful layering ensure the outfit passes the office test.

Workwear no longer needs to feel rigid. Linen offers the comfort we all crave, while our lagenlook styling ensures individuality shines through. Whether you’re layering a tunic over trousers or belting a shirt dress, these seven linen looks prove that you can be both comfortable and office-appropriate.