When it comes to summering in Europe and wanting to look like a local, linen is often the material you think of first. That makes sense—the billowy fabric is very Talented Mr. Ripley and Call Me By Your Name. And while lightweight linen dresses, shirts, pants, and skirts are certainly warm-weather staples across Italy, Spain, and France, they aren't the only frequented options for staying both physically and aesthetically cool when the temperatures peak in said countries come June, July, and August. In fact, there's one other material that might be even more trusted by Europeans during the summer months than linen: cotton poplin.
Like linen pieces, a cotton poplin blouse or pair of trousers is guaranteed to be extremely breathable and lightweight. Plus, if you pick a soft color like white or pastel pink or blue, you'll benefit from the fact that lighter colors reflect most of the sun's wavelengths, keeping them from heating up throughout the day. Linen, however, tends to wrinkle—like, immediately—whereas the tightness of the weave of cotton poplin makes it practically wrinkle-proof. It's no wonder then that so many brands (and chic European passport holders) are choosing the latter breezy fabric option for the summer season ahead.
Below, shop the only material Europeans love more than linen this time of year in the form of dresses, skirts, and more.
Cotton Poplin Tops
This crisp white shirt will get so much wear all throughout the year, not just during the summer.
I feel like this V-neck top belongs in a '90s rom-com.
Extra blousy and oversize for those super-hot days on the horizon.
I suggest ordering a few of these.
Wow, this one is straight-up beautiful.
I don't know about you, but I'm weak for puffy sleeves.
When a jersey T-shirt feels too heavy and soft for a hot day, toss on this more breathable blouse.
Cotton Poplin Dresses
I think about this dress a lot—like too much.
As you can see from this photo, this dress belongs in a seaside town in Italy.
Nothing's easier than tossing on a white minidress in the summertime.
If you love a T-shirt dress but hate how jersey can cling to your body, this poplin alt from The Row is the summer splurge for you. When you consider price per wear, by the end of the season, it'll be practically free.
Love a mini. But then again, who doesn't?
A classic choice. All you need to go with it is a vintage headscarf and some cat-eye sunglasses.
This dress is giving Prada nightgown vibes, and I'm 100% here for it.
Cotton Poplin Skirts
The fact that this skirt has the word "paperbag" in its title says it all.
Oh, I already know of six ways to wear this skirt, and that's just off the top of my head.
It might trap a little bit more heat because of the color, but it's never a bad idea to buy a black version of something you love.
Swoon.
I just imagine that this skirt will move in the prettiest way while I speed walk around Manhattan this summer.
I own the non-eyelet version of this skirt, and let me tell you it's so worth the price. It's truly perfect.
I know they're controversial, but I'm so here for bubble hems.
Cotton Poplin Pants
I love poplin pants because they feel like pj's but when styled correctly can appear extremely elevated and put together.
These aren't going to stay in stock for long.
This color is so luxurious and different.
The crop on these feels very retro.
I went to a presentation for this brand during fashion week a few seasons ago and was blown away by the quality of its pieces.
Me? I'm obsessed.
Toteme can do no wrong in my book.
Cotton Poplin Shorts
These are perfect for a lazy Sunday morning coffee run.
To go with all the ballet flats you invested in in 2023 and 2024.
Wait, why do I legit need these bloomers?
I'm going to end up wearing these at least three times a week for the entire summer. I just know it.
This blue looks so nice with a sun-kissed glow.
Just do it. You know you want to.
If you're a fan of Almina Concept's knits, you'll love its boxers even more.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.