22 Breezy Linen Dresses To Keep You Cool This Summer

this swingy dress

Left on Friday Half Day Dress

this swingy dress

Left on Friday Half Day Dress

Got an outdoor concert comin' up? Look like the main attraction in this swingy dress perf for dancing anywhere, anyhow.

Rave Review: Super cute and comfy too! The built in slip and pockets are life!! Someone tried to buy it off my body at Jazzfest!! I should have ordered a small, bought a medium, because my shoulders are so narrow, but overall it's an amazing dress that I will wear all summer.

this masterpiece

Significant Other Marino Dress

this masterpiece

Significant Other Marino Dress

Now 50% Off

You better believe I'll be reaching for this serene number for my next wedding. That white contrast binding is so chic.

this eye-catching maxi

Rebdolls A Vision Linen Button Up Maxi A Line Dress

this eye-catching maxi

Rebdolls A Vision Linen Button Up Maxi A Line Dress

Maxi dresses are a love language so prepare to be entranced in 3, 2...

Rave Review: I love this dress, I wish it came in more colors. The green is a bright and clear true chartreuse. The fabric is a heavy enough linen that it doesn't wrinkle too badly but light enough to be wonderful for summer. It IS very long but it is listed as a maxi dress so that is expected.I'm planning to travel in Japan for a month and this is one oRead more about review stating Excellent, great colour and fabricf four outfits I plan on packing

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this cutout midi

Madewell Cutout Midi Dress in Stripe

this cutout midi

Madewell Cutout Midi Dress in Stripe

Now 15% Off

A striped dress is a summer must! This style has an open back thanks to some v enticing cutouts.

this olive midi

Dissh Flow Olive Linen Midi Dress

this olive midi

Dissh Flow Olive Linen Midi Dress

Now 50% Off

When the streets are calling but you also have work, you're gonna go for this midi dress.

this long-sleeved wonder

STAUD Karlee Long Sleeve Linen Dress in Hibiscus Whirlpool

this long-sleeved wonder

STAUD Karlee Long Sleeve Linen Dress in Hibiscus Whirlpool

Now 25% Off

Give 'em drama with this long-sleeved masterpiece. But heads up: It runs small!

Rave Review: "Beautiful fabric, love the pattern and color. Ordered a M, my usual size. Prob need to size up at least 2 sizes."

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this picnic vibe

Vitamin A® Mari Gingham Linen Cover-Up Maxi Dress

this picnic vibe

Vitamin A® Mari Gingham Linen Cover-Up Maxi Dress

TBH, you should plan the most instagram-worthy picnic just for the sake of this pretty pick.

this effortless feel

Everlane The Linen Workwear Dress

this effortless feel

Everlane The Linen Workwear Dress

Disclaimer: You're gonna want to live in this easy shift dress.

Rave Review: "Originally bought the light blue and loved it so much that I immediately ordered the sea grass color! The fabric is comfortable and breathable, and it's got POCKETS! Perfect to throw on over a swimsuit or to run errands, but also versatile and cute enough to wear for a night out! I would normally go with an XS or a S for dresses but since this is a little oversized and boxy I went with an XS. I will be selling my house and living in this dress."

this puff-sleeve beaut

Amalie Emerita Puff Sleeve Ring Detail Gathered Mini Dress

this puff-sleeve beaut

Amalie Emerita Puff Sleeve Ring Detail Gathered Mini Dress

Now 64% Off

Pretty convinced that puff sleeves makes everything fancier. Day parties, here we comeee.

Rave Review: "This dress is absolutely stunning! The fit is gorgeous, and the material is beautiful & soft against your skin. Couldn't be happier, worth every penny."

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this sheer one

H&M Linen Tie-Belt Dress

this sheer one

H&M Linen Tie-Belt Dress

Trust this sheer belted dress will come through for ya on the most sweltering of days.

Rave Review: "Wow, the pink is gorgeous and the material is great (have not washed it yet). Originally, I bought L in black and it did not look right so I decided to try M—it's fabulous (mostly because of the color). Hope it does not shrink."

this floral mini

& Other Stories Linen Mini Dress in Multi Floral

this floral mini

& Other Stories Linen Mini Dress in Multi Floral

Nothing like a floral dress for the ultimate whimsical vibes.

this strapless style

Abercrombie Strapless Linen-Blend Midi Dress

this strapless style

Abercrombie Strapless Linen-Blend Midi Dress

Sometimes linen pieces can run more on the casual side, and it can be hard to find dressier options. Well, this dress solves that problem for ya. The long silhouette and strapless design makes this a great style for a fancy summer dinner outing or a beach party.

Rave Review: "The green color of this dress is amazing. The quality is great too! I love that I can wear it strapless or not. It's the cutest dress for a summer wedding, day date to a nice restaurant, or like a celebration!"

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this a-line piece

Estelle Isola Dress

this a-line piece

Estelle Isola Dress

Go from meetings to dinner in this airy number.

this stunning pick

Mango Strapless Dress

this stunning pick

Mango Strapless Dress

Now 13% Off

Gift this to your friend who's been searching high and low for a dress to wear to her wedding rehearsal dinner.

this halterneck midi

Farm Rio Jungle Chic Cutout Printed Linen-blend Halterneck Midi Dress

this halterneck midi

Farm Rio Jungle Chic Cutout Printed Linen-blend Halterneck Midi Dress

Queen of the jungle feels comin' right up. This is a vacation dress I will def be stuffing into my suitcase!

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this shift dress

Faherty Isha Basketweave Dress

this shift dress

Faherty Isha Basketweave Dress

You know those times where you don't wanna wear anything at all? Turn to this bestselling shift dress that boasts over 900 positive reviews!

Rave Review: "This fabric is delicious and and the pockets are HUGE! I'm 5'1" 114 lbs & a D cup and usually wear a small. This fits very comfortably over my chest. It's light and breezy and so comfortable. I'm finding it needs to be dressed up with pretty shoes and doesn't look right with casual shoes."

this gingham dress

Goodthreads Flutter Sleeve Peasant Dress

this gingham dress

Goodthreads Flutter Sleeve Peasant Dress

This knee-length version is easy on the wallet, has a V-neck, and cute flutter sleeves for an extra detail.

Rave Review: "Love the style and the fit! Very flattering and comfortable! Love the pockets!"

this minimal dress

Mordenmiss Cotton Linen Dress

this minimal dress

Mordenmiss Cotton Linen Dress

Now 26% Off

Want something loose and more minimal? Opt for this midi which has handy pockets, a slightly cinched waist, and a scoop neckline. Style it with sandals and a statement pendant necklace to really make it a whole effortless summer look.

Rave Review: "Love this dress. Simple lines, modest, and flows nicely. Good weight of fabric, and you don't need a slip!"

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this embroidered dress

Fanm Mon Demre Dress

this embroidered dress

Fanm Mon Demre Dress

Fanm Mom has some seriously gorgeous pieces and almost all of them are made out of linen—like this swingy blue number with ruffled sleeves and floral embroidery! It's super popular among the stylish set, so you've probably seen it pop up on your IG feed, but might not have known where it was from... Until now!

this wide-sleeve dress

Mie Djerba Dress

this wide-sleeve dress

Mie Djerba Dress

Mie's dresses are all handmade in Lagos, Nigeria by local artisans, and as evidenced by this pink number, they're guaranteed to turn heads. In addition to the keyhole cutout at the front, it's also backless, which will feel great when there's a breeze.

Associate Fashion Editor

I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago. 

Fashion Editor

Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.Com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn. 

The 20 Best Linen Dresses An Editor Swears By For Summer

Best Structured Linen Dress

Farm Rio Side Laced Linen Blend Dress

Best Structured Linen Dress

Farm Rio Side Laced Linen Blend Dress Credit: Nordstrom

Linen dresses can still feel breezy and ethereal with a structured silhouette. Just look at this Farm Rio dress, with a flowing skirt offset by a smocked bodice. Shoppers tend to agree it's a must-have for wedding season.

Sizes: XXS–XL

Color: Red

What reviewers are saying: "Do not sleep on this dress!! So perfect for wedding season! Linen is light and breathable and the color is absolutely striking. The smocked sides give comfort but the ties allow you to fit to your body making you SNATCHED! I wish more FarmRio was like this!"

Best Linen Dress Off the Runway

Chloé Linen Midi Dress

Best Linen Dress Off the Runway

Chloé Linen Midi Dress

I gasped a little when Bazaar editor Alison Cohn sent me a link to this Chloé dress from the label's latest runway collection. The straps are cut to perfection, and there's a boned construction in the bodice to create the sculpting effect of a corset. I'll never underestimate linen's potential for luxury again.

Sizes: FR34–FR44

Colors: Cream, red

Best Open-Back Linen Dress

COS Open-Back Mini Pinafore Dress

Best Open-Back Linen Dress

COS Open-Back Mini Pinafore Dress

A little white dress just feels like summer, and this pinafore style from COS is the best new take I've seen this season. There's structure and coverage in the front, an open design with a sweet ribbon tie in the back, and breezy linen all throughout the design. It can even work for casual offices with a few choice layers: Just add a boxy Frankie Shop blazer and an Oxford brogue with ankle socks.

Sizes: 2–14

Colors: Black, White

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Best Linen Shirt Dress

Jenni Kayne Day Dress

Best Linen Shirt Dress

Jenni Kayne Day Dress Credit: Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne's linen Day dress is my absolute ideal on the hottest summer days. It's one of those pieces that's minimal to the untrained eye and incredibly considered for discerning shoppers. I found that the pleating along the back and the smaller buttons made this dress feel much more elegant than other styles I've tried. The colors are light, so they won't absorb too much heat; the short-sleeve cut means I can wear a regular bra underneath. I've followed the brand's styling suggestion here and worn it with a belt cinched at the waist—but I can assure that compliments are guaranteed when it's worn without accessories as well. I haven't worn this dress on a trip, but its refined-yet-relaxed attitude makes me feel like I'm vacationing in Nantucket when I wear it.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Colors: White, Khaki

What reviewers are saying: "I took a chance on this dress recently and I'm certainly glad I did. The linen feels lovely and the khaki color does not disappoint. The cut is incredibly flattering—nipped at the waist but not too tight, shoulder seams dropped ever so slightly. It can be casual and simple, but it's also easy to style if you want to add your own touch."

Best One-Shoulder Linen Dress

Free-est At Leisure Midi Dress

Best One-Shoulder Linen Dress

Free-est At Leisure Midi Dress Credit: Free People

From the vibrant color palette to the textured stripes and wrap silhouette, this affordable linen dress caught my attention from every angle. Then I read the reviews, and knew this highly-rated linen dress was worth owning: Other shoppers love that both the shoulder strap and the waist tie are adjustable for a comfortable fit.

Sizes: XS–XL

Colors: Optic White, Black, Mermaid, Miami Beat, and more

What reviewers are saying: "Definitely looking to wear on all my tropical vacations BUT ALSO when I need to slip on something and just go. Lovely color and quality is FP Beach standard which is great :)"

Best Polo Linen Dress

Banana Republic Cruz Linen Maxi Shirtdress

Best Polo Linen Dress

Banana Republic Cruz Linen Maxi Shirtdress Credit: Banana Republic

A sharp polo collar and a mid-calf slit are all this dress needed to feel elevated above a simple shift. I'd balance the dress's simple lines and neutral tone with a chunky Lizzie Fortunato mood necklace and equally large statement earrings, straw bag in hand.

Sizes: XXS–XL

Colors: Clay, Indigo, Washed Stone

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Best Formal Linen Dress

Aje Paradiso Linen Blend A-Line Dress

Best Formal Linen Dress

Aje Paradiso Linen Blend A-Line Dress

Now 40% Off

Credit: Nordstrom

All my most-complimented wedding guest dresses have Aje tags. With summer ceremonies filling the weeks ahead, I'm turning to this A-line dress with the most gorgeous handpainted floral print and pleated bodice.

Sizes: 0–10

Color: Floral

What reviewers are saying: "Five stars."

Most Comfortable Linen Dress

Magic Linen Toscana Linen Dress

Most Comfortable Linen Dress

Magic Linen Toscana Linen Dress Credit: Magic Linen

Of course the makers of the best linen sheets designed an equally comfortable and cooling linen dress. This dress has all the ease I look for in linens, with a loose fit and pockets spacious enough to fit my phone. I'm not the only one endorsing this tank top style in a wide range of colors: It's also a favorite of more than four hundred reviewers, plus celebrities like Meghan Markle.

Sizes: XS–XL

Colors: Colorblock, Clay, White, Lilac, Teal, and more

What reviewers are saying: "I bought this dress to take on vacation. It it flattering, comfortable and easy to dress up and down."

Best Button-Up Linen Dress

Alex Mill Mathilde Dress

Best Button-Up Linen Dress

Alex Mill Mathilde Dress

Alex Mill's Mathilde vest is a recent addition to my wardrobe that I simply can't stop wearing. I had to double up when I saw that it also came in the form of this flattering midi dress. It can be worn a little loose or fitted through the waist, with the help of a tie int he back. Either way, it's the out-of-office companion to a suit set that I'm begging to wear on a European vacation.

Sizes: XS–XL

Colors: Navy, Khaki

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Best Minimalist Linen Dress

Ciao Lucia Rosalba Linen-Blend Midi Dress

Best Minimalist Linen Dress

Ciao Lucia Rosalba Linen-Blend Midi Dress Credit: Moda Operandi

Ciao Lucia has become one of my favorite brands for unpretentiously elegant summer dresses. This spaghetti strap midi keeps the vibe going with a classic A-line fit and exposed seams along the top of the skirt. I'm daydreaming about wearing it at the peak of August with one of Loewe's straw, ribbon-tied sunhats and a flat leather sandal.

Sizes: XS–L

Color: Black

Best Embroidered Linen Dress

Rixo Benedict Embroidered Linen-Blend Midi Dress

Best Embroidered Linen Dress

Rixo Benedict Embroidered Linen-Blend Midi Dress

Rixo's vintage-inspired dresses get the most play at formal events. Or they used to, before I came across this linen midi dotted with tiny flowers along the bodice and hem. This dress has the throwback appeal I love in Rixo's satin and chiffon pieces, but a cut and breathable fabrication that's travel- and daily-life-friendly. It'll be my Saturday go-to with a lace-up leather sandal and a pair of oversized sunglasses.

Sizes: UK6–UK20

Color: Black Floral

Best Cutout Linen Dress

Savannah Morrow Fiori Maxi Dress

Best Cutout Linen Dress

Savannah Morrow Fiori Maxi Dress Credit: Net-a-Porter

This crinkly linen-gauze blend is one of Savannah Morrow's signatures—and it folds up easily for travel on a summer Friday. But the real standouts on this dress are the waist cutouts: a little sexy for the flash of skin they reveal, a little regal with the contrasting twist of fabric at the center. I can only imagine this dress at a five-star beachfront resort.

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Color: Green

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Best Long-Sleeve Linen Dress

Nanushka Gilia Ruched Linen Dress

Best Long-Sleeve Linen Dress

Nanushka Gilia Ruched Linen Dress Credit: Nanushka

I first got acquainted with Nanushka through its faux leather blazers and coats for fall. The Budapest-based label's linens were a fun discovery I made in time for summer. For rooftop parties, beachfront wedding receptions, or nights out with a big group of friends, this clementine orange dress is a winner. The midriff cutout and ruched bodice give what could have been a straightforward long-sleeve dress the aura of a sleek matching set.

Sizes: XXS–XL

Colors: Orange, Oat

Best Off-the-Shoulder Linen Dress

SLEEPER Atlanta Midi Dress

Best Off-the-Shoulder Linen Dress

SLEEPER Atlanta Midi Dress Credit: Net-a-Porter

I could never crack the code on packing for a vacation with dramatic day-to-night temperature changes until I found this Sleeper dress. This linen has that essential featherlight weight suited for a daytime outfit, but the long sleeves are sufficient when temperatures drop in the evening. While I can always appreciate an outfit change, I loved sticking with this romantic off-the-shoulder piece for the full day on a recent beach trip.

Sizes: XS–XL

Color: Green

Best Floral Linen Dress

Reformation Tagliatelle Linen Dress Es

Best Floral Linen Dress

Reformation Tagliatelle Linen Dress Es

I own this Reformation dress in a picnic gingham from last summer, but this painterly floral has me considering a second order. The square neckline hits just high enough that it accentuates my collarbone without feeling too revealing for work. I wear it with a slightly oversized black blazer to the office and with a neutral sweater tied over my shoulders on the weekend.

Sizes: 0–24

Color: Blue Floral

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Best Customizable Linen Dress

Fanm Mon Emilie Dress

Best Customizable Linen Dress

Fanm Mon Emilie Dress

Fanm Mon is responsible for my absolute favorite knit cardigan, so trying one of their floral linen dresses felt like a necessity for summer. This V-neck midi dress delivers the same whimsical, delicate floral embellishments I adore in my knitwear. Plus, the brand's made-to-order system guarantees that it's stitched with care (and it comes with the option to further customize the design).

Sizes: XXS–XXL, plus custom orders

Colors: Yellow, White, Blue, Pink

Best Plus-Size Linen Dress

Baacal Brooke Midi Dress

Best Plus-Size Linen Dress

Baacal Brooke Midi Dress Credit: Dia & Co.

Cooling linen is just the start of qualities to love in Baacal's Brooke dress. The label excels at dresses cut specifically for sizes 10 and up. Here, Baccal shows off its attention to detail with a comfortable smocked bodice, roomy pockets, and ribbon straps to tie any which way for your preferred fit.

Sizes: 10–28

Color: Auburn

Best Tiered Linen Dress

La Ligne Anais Ruffle Linen Blend Midi Dress

Best Tiered Linen Dress

La Ligne Anais Ruffle Linen Blend Midi Dress Credit: Nordstrom

I ordered this La Ligne dress for a wedding rehearsal dinner a few months in my future; I ended up wearing it the day it arrived and five times since then. The deeper plunge neckline and flutter sleeves felt just polished enough to change into after work for dates and sit-down dinners, but the tiered skirt and linen blend still have the comfort factor I want in a dress for the height of summer.

Sizes: XS–XL

Color: Black

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Best Linen Popover Dress

Lafayette 148 New York Vintage Linen Pintuck Popover Dress

Best Linen Popover Dress

Lafayette 148 New York Vintage Linen Pintuck Popover Dress Credit: Lafayette 148

Crisp popover dresses are the sort of style I know I'll always want in my closet. Whether I'm throwing on a dress like this for an errand, a trip to the pool, or a day lounging at home, I know the short, cuffed sleeves and button-up collar will feel both put-together and relaxed.

Sizes: XXS–3X

Best Cover-Up Linen Dress

Lemlem Eshe Plunge Neck Dress

Best Cover-Up Linen Dress

Lemlem Eshe Plunge Neck Dress Credit: Shopbop

Lemlem is my first destination on the hunt for a fresh swimsuit cover-up. The breathable linen can handle a one hundred-degree day under a beach umbrella, while the short, kimono-like sleeves and long tiered skirt are appropriate for a casual sit-down dinner. A lilac or magenta bandeau swimsuit top will look so sweet layered under this dress's plunge neckline.

Sizes: XS–L

Color: White/Pink

Fashion Commerce Editor

Halie LeSavage is the fashion commerce editor at Harper's BAZAAR. Her style reporting covers everything from reviewing the best designer products to profiling emerging brands and designers. Previously, she was the founding retail writer at Morning Brew and a fashion associate at Glamour.

I've Worn This $108 Linen Shirt Twice A Week For The Past 2 Summers (& It Comes In 10 Colors)

universal standard

Appearance: 19/20

Comfort: 19/20

Fit: 18/20

Value: 20/20

Quality: 19/20

TOTAL: 95/100

I am an unabashed outfit repeater. I pretty much wear the same handful of pieces in different combinations every single day. Variety? Not so much. Efficient and easy? Oh, absolutely. Still, even I've been surprised just how often I wear the Dawn Linen Hi Low Tunic from Universal Standard.

I bought what has quickly become the most-worn article of clothing in my closet back in spring 2021 and have since buttoned it up at least once a week—and even more frequently in summer. Made with 55 percent linen, 42 percent rayon and 3 percent elastane, it's a relaxed fit button-down shirt with a high-low hem. (It's not a dramatically high-low hem; I'm not normally a fan of that silhouette but have no qualms with the cut of this particular top.)

universal standard

I have the shirt in black and white, but it's the black version that gets carted out of my closet most regularly. If you're less averse to wearing color than I, there are eight additional shades available, including dried saffron, tarragon and cabernet. Like all of Universal Standard's offerings, the Dawn Hi Low Tunic is available in a truly impressive size range: 00 to 40 (or 4XS to 4XL). At $108, it's a great price for a high-quality garment that's versatile and classic enough to be worn a lot to justify the cost. I probably got my money's worth in approximately a month.

I have worn this shirt with everything, from jeans and skorts to exercise dresses—even as a swimsuit cover-up. It's so comfortable and easy and just a piece I can see myself wearing until it literally falls apart (which it hasn't yet, even after 100+ wears). According to Universal Standard's site, you're supposed to machine-wash it cold and lay it flat to dry, but I'm going to be totally honest, I've machine washed and machine dried it for the past two years and it's held up beautifully. My only issue, really, is that the sleeves are a bit short on me, but I typically prefer a rolled-up, three-quarter vibe anyway, so that's kind of a moot point.

If there's even the smallest part of you that's thinking, Hmm, I think I could use another linen top, I highly suggest—nee, urge—you to invest in this one and wear it into the ground just as I have.

Buy it ($108)

Desmond & Dempsey Linen Lounge Shirt

https://go.Skimresources.Com?Id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.Shopbop.Com%2Fwomens-lounge-shirt-plain-linen%2Fvp%2Fv%3D1%2F1571506210.Htm

154

Abercrombie & Fitch Oversize Linen-Blend Shirt

https://go.Skimresources.Com?Id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.Abercrombie.Com%2Fshop%2Fus%2Fp%2Foversized-linen-blend-shirt-52187319%3Ffaceout%3Dmodel%26seq%3D05

42

Everlane The Linen Relaxed Shirt

https://go.Skimresources.Com?Id=27667X859343&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.Everlane.Com%2Fproducts%2Fwomens-linen-relaxed-shirt-black2

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11 Styling Tips All Short Women Should Live By

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Sarah Stiefvater is PureWow's Wellness Director. She has been at PureWow for ten years, and in that time has written and edited stories across pretty much all categories, but currently focuses on wellness, books and fashion. She's most passionate about all things physical and mental health, and whether she's covering dating trends, reviewing sleep products or interviewing therapists, doctors and other health professionals, her ultimate goal is to help PureWow readers feel their best from the inside out.

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