Spring is here and that’s fine and dandy, but before long it is going to get hot. Hot enough that you don’t really feel like going outside unless it involves a pool. Hot enough that you can’t even consider drinking coffee that isn’t iced. Hot enough that even a pair of cotton chino pants is too much.

Shorts can be the answer to that last quandary, but over-the-knee legwear doesn’t get the greenlight at every office or social occasion. That’s why we’re going to make the case for linen pants.

Linen is naturally lightweight and breathable, which allows for better air circulation (and less sweat stains). It’s also a very quick-drying fabric, ensuring that any sweat that does accumulate may dry out before that big presentation. And because you can have linen pants cut as trousers, they can be worn with other office staples like a buttondown shirt.

How To Wear Linen Pants
If you’re thinking of using linen pants as a substitute for your workweek khakis, consider getting a pair in a more neutral, earthy fabric like brown or moss green. They’ll prove just as versatile as your favorite khakis, pairing with neutral solid colors and patterned shirts alike.

Wearing Linen Pants With a Blazer
Where this gets a little more fun is the proposition of pairing linen pants to a blue blazer for a casual summer wedding reception or outdoor cocktail party. Match the flatter hand of linen by selecting a blazer made from a textured fabric, like a navy diamond dot. And with a more sober tone established up-top thanks to a classic solid like navy, you can try a more adventurous shade down below like russet brown or bright blue.