Emily Sayles’ top linen picks for spring and summer

The rhythm of rural life returns with the scent of wild garlic in the air, the gentle flow of linen dresses and the quiet elegance of a garden in bloom. For those of us who live by the countryside’s quiet clock, it is our cue for a wardrobe refresh, says Emily Sayles.

Spring has settled over the Suffolk coast, and with it comes the gentle shift in rhythm that only the countryside truly feels. The bleating of lambs carries across patchworked fields, cherry blossoms drift like confetti in the breeze, and the scent of wild garlic rises from shaded woodland paths. The days stretch a little longer now, filled with the promise of slower mornings, salt-tinged air, and a return to rituals we’ve quietly missed.

Here, the changing season brings a sense of opportunity. A new walk to explore where sand meets heath, the North Sea’s untamed brine never far from view. A forgotten spot to park the old Defender and unpack a well-worn picnic rug, sandwiches in hand, as fishing boats pass like clockwork. Perhaps even a small brush with history – an iron gate left ajar or a moss-covered signpost – each a reminder of the stories rooted in this coastal soil.

Dressing for summer, with elegance and ease the priorities

For those of us who live by the countryside’s quiet clock, as spring approaches summer, it is our cue for a wardrobe refresh. The moment when woollen layers are folded away, and lighter, easy-going pieces take their place. For me, this seasonal switch is more than just practical – it’s a joy. I gravitate towards a considered mix: everyday classics that work just as well behind the wheel of the Defender on a muddy lane as they do at a sunlit garden gathering, alongside a handful of standout pieces that can carry me through from coastal mornings to alfresco evenings.

And of course, there’s the garden. In spring and summer, it becomes its own kind of runway – roses climbing lazily over old trellises, bees darting between foxgloves, a table set beneath a wisteria-draped pergola. Here, style is quiet but thoughtful – comfortable enough for pottering among the herb beds, polished enough for impromptu drinks as dusk falls.

Comfort is my constant. If four decades in the English countryside have taught me anything about summer style, it’s that fashion must move with you – through fields, along beaches, into pubs at golden hour. If it doesn’t offer both ease and elegance, it won’t earn its place.

Casual linen outfits that help you move seamlessly from beach days to brunch dates

I’ll glide effortlessly into warm weather, moving seamlessly from beach days to brunch dates in the Daphne Linen Shorts in Oat. Crafted for breathable elegance, these shorts feature a relaxed fit, an elasticated waist (what a triumph!) with a drawcord, and easy care that doesn’t compromise on comfort. Paired with the Lavenham Linen Top in Blueberry, cut slightly shorter in length with a flattering shape and wide v-neck, this ensemble exudes understated elegance for the warmer months. Loose-fitting and breathable, the Lavenham Top is effortlessly versatile and can be styled with all manner of outfits. Together, the Daphne Shorts and Lavenham Top offer the perfect full-linen outfit, a balance of versatility, comfort, and chic summer style. Perfect for a casual stroll through the local countryside, a relaxed lunch at a country pub, or a weekend spent exploring quaint villages and rolling hills, this linen outfit captures the relaxed charm of country living. Whether I’m enjoying an alfresco picnic in a sun-dappled meadow or spending the afternoon at a charming farmers’ market, the Daphne and Lavenham pairing ensures I’m ready for every summer adventure.

The easy-to-wear linen dress that blends simplicity with sophistication

The Camelia Linen Dress, with its chic above-the-knee cut, exudes charm. Featuring a flattering v-neck and an adjustable drawstring waist, it creates a beautifully defined silhouette. As easy to wear as it is to maintain, this dress offers a refined take on classic warm-weather style, radiating simplicity and sophistication. It’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon on the Suffolk coast, a boating excursion, a Sunday lunch at a village pub, or a stroll through a picturesque coastal village. The Camelia Linen Dress is my go-to choice for embracing the relaxed beauty of rural life. I love pairing it with my favourite brimmed hat, like the Porth. A timeless accessory, the Porth Hat in classic straw Panama-style features a two-tone ribbon, and it is available in two colour options. It adds a touch of undeniable charm and is perfect for shading my face from the balmy, high-summer sun.

A truly versatile linen shirt

On cooler days, when the North Sea breeze is a little fresher, I can always rely on the Salthouse Shirt in Pale Pink for a more laid-back, yet equally stylish look. With its crisp, clean lines and soft pastel hue, this shirt is effortlessly versatile and the perfect match for any occasion. Paired with my Daphne Linen Trousers, which bring together comfort and sophistication, I’ve got the ideal combination for both style and ease. The relaxed straight-leg fit of the Daphne Trousers, with their elasticated waist, drawcord, and external pockets, adds a touch of uncomplicated charm. Whether I’m heading to a brocante, enjoying an alfresco lunch by the water, or wandering through a historical home and garden, this ensemble complements the relaxed beauty of outdoor living perfectly.

Embrace the seasonal transition, darlings, and rekindle the delight of sun-soaked, balmy days. The Suffolk coast and countryside are awakening in the most breathtaking way.