Why You Should Be Wearing Linen (and not just in the summer!)
Linen is one of those materials that people can often feel reluctant to go near. Perhaps that’s because it will crease the minute you touch it, its price tag can be off putting or the mere fact that it is rarely found in ‘trendy’ styles. But linen is actually a fabric that once you begin wearing, you will never be able to stop. Why? Because it is one of the most comfortable and versatile materials we have access to. Linen in any of its forms, be that bedding, towels or clothing, feels innately luxurious.
In the 21st century, we have become used to wearing synthetic fabrics daily so when we step out and choose a natural fibre, the experience is completely different.
Natural Fibre
Linen is a naturally occurring fibre created from the flax plant and is actually one of the oldest textiles in the world. The use of linen can be traced back thousands of years, and while we cannot identify who discovered its benefits, we have found examples of dry flax fibres in a prehistoric cave in Georgia which is evidence that woven fabrics like linen were being made from flax around 36,000 years ago. Usually, every part of the flax plant is utilised in creating several products, not just linen, a common by-product being linseed oil. Able to grow in poor soil and in a variety of other conditions, the flax plant has a lower water consumption level than cotton, making it more environmentally friendly in this sense. According to the European Confederation of Linen and Hemp, “Across its lifecycle, a linen shirt uses 6.4 litres of water” compared to 2,700 litres for a cotton shirt. As a natural fibre, undyed linen will decompose without aid.
Durable
Linen is a naturally sturdy fabric, moth resistant, can withstand high temperatures and is naturally moisture-wicking. It reaps a whole host of benefits! While a modern-day fast-fashion item of clothing may only last you one or two seasons before breaking apart, the durability of linen will ensure it lasts you years, even getting softer with each wash. Whilst linen is, of course, not indestructible, its resilience has allowed many a historical garment to survive. Historically, linen has been used for many things. One of its most popular uses in modern history was the shift, an undergarment worn by both men and women of all classes, allowing one’s garments to stay clean from sweat or any other dirt. A good linen shift, while it could be expensive, would last you many years and would be mended if any holes or tears arose.
Versatile
We closely associate linen with Spring and Summer due to its marvellous ability to absorb any sweat, therefore keeping us cool. But, linen can actually be worn in any season and you may find it incredibly useful during the colder months. While linen garments may be lightweight and breathable, linen can also act as a natural insulator. Linen will retain the heat from your body and release any excess, helping you keep a comfortable temperature in colder climates.
There are undoubtedly many pros of linen that easily outweigh any of its cons. Linen is a naturally dense fabric, this is what makes it so durable, but it also makes the dyeing process more difficult. Achieving a bright white pair of linen trousers will utilise a lot of bleach, so if being eco-conscious, it is important that you aim for natural-hue linen products. Linen is, on balance, more eco-friendly than many other fabrics, but it isn’t always perfect so make sure you do your research on the individual product. Good quality linen can also carry a hefty price tag and historically it always has. Flax thread is not elastic and therefore can be difficult to manipulate and work with. In ancient Egypt, linen was so expensive and sought after it was sometimes used as a form of currency!
Whether you choose to wear linen trousers, a blazer or dress, there will always be one issue that arises. The dreaded creasing. Unfortunately, if you’re wearing a 100% linen garment you will not be able to escape this so make sure you own a good iron or steamer! Trust me, once you go linen you’ll never go back.
