Kate Middleton’s Classy White Linen Shorts Are the Anti-Denim Trend Taking Over Summer

Kate Middleton has always had a talent for making classic staples feel fresh again, and one of her most elegant warm-weather pieces is quietly taking over summer 2026. Classy white linen shorts were once reserved for beach vacations and yacht clubs, but now they’re suddenly replacing denim cutoffs as the ‘It’ girl staple. You can recreate the royal-approved look for just $30 on Amazon.

The Princess of Wales previously stepped out wearing white linen shorts with a navy striped sweater, white sneakers and gold hoop earrings. Instead of looking overly preppy or casual, the outfit struck that perfect in-between balance: relaxed, expensive-looking and incredibly timeless. Her outfit also explains why linen shorts are becoming the anti-denim trend fashionistas can’t stop wearing.

Get the Willit High-Waisted Linen Pleated Shorts for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Willit High-Waisted Linen Pleated Shorts are very much like Middleton’s pair. They feature a tailored high-waisted silhouette, subtle pleating and a breezy wide-leg fit that instantly feels more elevated than frayed denim shorts. The crisp white shade especially gives off that quiet luxury coastal energy that’s dominating summer style this year.

Made from a 55% linen and 45% cotton blend, the shorts feel airy while being slightly softer than pure linen styles. Because they have that cotton addition, you’ll love that the shorts are less prone to wrinkling. That means you can pack them in your suitcase for travels, too.

The shorts also feature practical side and back pockets to stash small items. Plus, you get a choice of 7-inch or 10-inch inseams, making the bottoms easy to customize to your perfect fit.

While the white version feels especially Middleton-coded, the shorts also come in versatile, neutral shades like khaki and army green.

Shoppers are just as obsessed as we are. One reviewer raved about their “sophisticated look” that’s perfect for “warmer weather,” which sums up exactly the royal effect we’re after. Another called them “lightweight and very flattering,” noting that they look “very nice” styled with a dressy top and cute shoes.

That’s the secret to making them feel like more than just shorts. Dress the pair up with a tucked-in linen blouse and slide sandals, or keep things casual à la Middleton with a striped pullover and white sneakers.

Honestly, it’s easy to understand why white linen shorts are summer’s biggest anti-denim trend. They feel cooler, lighter and far more refined than classic cutoffs, while still being just as effortless to throw on. And if Middleton rocks the style, you can bet the white shorts will be the chic summer staple worn absolutely everywhere.

Get the Willit High-Waisted Linen Pleated Shorts for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more from Willit here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!