When temperatures rise to scorching levels in the summer, whether you’re in the city or at the beach, your first line of defence is, of course, an effective SPF. However, being pragmatic about your wardrobe choices will provide you with an extra layer of protection. That’s when linen, a fabric historically adored by kings and adorned by ancient Egyptian deities, plays an essential role in keeping you as cool as a cucumber. With this how-to guide, we’ve channelled style kings and fashion gods, from Jay Gatsby in the Hamptons, to Tom Ripley and Dickie Greenleaf on the Amalfi Coast via James “Sonny” Crockett in Miami’s South Beach.

Just remember that fit, colour and pattern are the key to sartorial success. Oh, and don’t spend too much time ironing your linen shirts, they will never look crisp and pristine – and that’s kind of the point.

What makes linen the quintessential fabric of summer is its high breathability and capacity to absorb plenty of moisture, all the while drying faster than cotton. These sartorial superpowers make it the smart choice for sweltering summer days. However, not all linen shirts fit all occasions. As far as office etiquette is concerned – and considering linen is not exactly a formal fabric – long sleeves are a prerequisite.

Swap your office Oxford shirt with this classic white Canali number. Crafted in a linen and cotton-blend, it prevents excessive wrinkling making it ideal for work trips. Pair it with a lightweight, unlined blazer, relaxed tailored trousers and classic loafers to keep your cool in even the most challenging meetings.

And you know how we feel about colour: embrace it, even in the boardroom. You’ll lighten up you and your colleagues’ day with Richard James’ striped, pink button-down at your next offsite. Plus, its relaxed fit will take you effortlessly from your desk to the pub and into the weekend. Simply roll up the sleeves and wear it with beige chinos and boat shoes to imagine yourself stepping onto a yacht in Capri – and not into another budgets meeting in Chelsea.

ZEGNA is the master of high-end natural fabrics and another fail-safe brand for elevated linen shirts. Created from locally sourced, luxe fibres, the house’s Oasi range includes this burnt-red shirt, which boasts hand-stitched details and a classic tailored fit. It will perfectly offset a pair of beige trousers and black Oxford shoes. It’s about owning the kind of sophistication that will exonerate you from the side-eyes of potential critics who’d rather sweat it out in more traditional colours and materials.

Now onto the fun stuff. Picture yourself on your way to the closest chiringuito or a beachside restaurant, ready to sip an ice-cold tipple of your choosing. Your OOO is on and it’s time to show off your sense of style while keeping it together under the unforgivable solar zenith angle. Oliver Spencer’s Garrison striped linen shirt, with its slightly off-kilter sleeves, is ideal for casual occasions. Plus, its ethical credentials have earnt it a spot on our Consciously Crafted edit. The lively terracotta stripes say you know what you’re doing, especially when paired with relaxed indigo denim shorts and espadrilles.

When you embrace a life of style, the beach is also an opportunity to look your best. Consider New York label rag & bone’s Avery shirt, which comes in an airy linen fabric, embroidered with broken stripes, and with a relaxed camp collar for your next beach vacation or pool party. Its soft lilac colour will marry well with above-the-knee, preppy, navy swim shorts and leather sandals (or flip-flops, if Jonathan Bailey has convinced you of their sleek versatility).

Let’s not rule out linen for evening, on a beach club rooftop, right before sunset when the mercury’s still high and you want to look your best. Maybe you’re taking your significant other on a romantic date after a long day at work or a blissful day of idleness on vacation. Long sleeves might be required depending on the venue, but you don’t need to dress to the nines. Thankfully, this Folk Anniversary button-down linen and cotton-blend chambray shirt will do the trick. Wear it with white jeans and suede loafers, and you’re good to go. Bonus tip: knot a cotton sweater around your shoulders and thank us when the evening chill sets in.

If you’re heading to a slightly more casual spot, Drake’s indigo, safari-style washed linen shirt is a solid choice. Elevate it with tonal trousers and leather fisherman sandals. It’s effortless without being boring and makes a solid case for monochromatic outfits.

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