Shirts, trousers and basics
Linen shirts for men: the hot-weather essential
By sneakersInn team · Updated
A linen shirt is the coolest shirt you can wear in Ghana's heat. Linen lets air through, absorbs sweat and dries quickly, so it doesn't cling the way cotton can on a humid day. It creases, which gives it a relaxed look, and it works with shorts at the beach, chinos at lunch and a light suit at a daytime wedding.
| Colour | Wear it with | For |
|---|---|---|
| White | Navy shorts, stone chinos, linen suit | Beach, weddings, church |
| Sky blue | Navy, white, stone trousers | Everyday, smart casual |
| Sand or ecru | Olive, brown, navy | Relaxed, earthy outfits |
| Olive | Cream, stone, white | Evenings, casual |
| Navy | White, stone, grey | Dinners, nights out |
Why is linen so cool?
Linen comes from the flax plant. Its fibres are stiffer and hollower than cotton, so the fabric stands away from your skin, lets air move, and releases moisture quickly. Accra's average highs of around 31°C with humidity often near 80% (climate of Accra) are exactly the conditions linen suits.
Pure linen or a blend?
Pure linen is coolest and creases most. Linen and cotton blends are softer and crease less. For the office, a blend; for the beach, pure linen.
How should a linen shirt fit?
A little looser than a cotton dress shirt so air can move, but still fitted at the shoulders. Sleeves can be rolled to the elbow. Linen shirts are usually worn untucked with a straight hem.
How do I wear a linen shirt?
- Beach: white linen shirt open over a tee, swim shorts, sandals. See beach party outfits.
- Smart casual: sky blue linen shirt, navy chinos, brown loafers.
- Daytime wedding: white linen shirt under a linen suit. See linen suits.
- Evening: navy linen shirt, stone trousers, suede sneakers.
How do I handle creases?
Accept some. Iron or steam while slightly damp, hang it immediately after wearing, and choose a blend if you need to look crisp all day.
How do I wash linen?
Wash cool or warm on a gentle cycle, don't over-dry, and hang in the shade. Linen softens with every wash.
Questions
Is linen formal enough for church?
A crisp linen shirt with tailored trousers is fine at most churches. For formal services, choose cotton. See church outfits for men.
Do linen shirts shrink?
They can, by a few percent on the first hot wash. Wash cool.