This is a collaborative post: Historically, linen clothing was reserved for the elite such as priests and monarchs. Later, as the flax plant was cultivated widely, this made it possible for people from all levels of society to wear linen fabric. Linen is a strong and breathable natural material which is used for upholstery, furnishings and clothing, and has a range of benefits.
Linen clothes are now readily available and relatively inexpensive: here are 7 reasons to stock up on linen clothes!
- Durability
Linen is a very durable fabric, much more so than synthetic materials and even cotton. This means that linen clothes are very long-lasting: you can expect your linen shirt or dress to stay in good shape for years. This natural fabric is very strong, and linen clothes won’t lose their shape after washing.
In fact, you’ll find that linen becomes softer and more comfortable to wear over time after multiple washes. Linen clothes are robust and will not degrade, as long as you look after them. Many people prefer to wear linen clothes because of their long life span.
- Sustainability
These days, more and more people are looking for clothes that are eco-friendly. Sustainable fashion is a term which is becoming increasingly common in the fashion world as consumers are more aware of environmental issues associated with the clothes they wear. Linen is preferred by eco-conscious consumers as linen is an environment-friendly fabric which is more sustainable than cotton. This natural material is made from the flax plant which requires less water and can grow in poor soil, while cotton cultivation is water-heavy as well as needing high levels of pesticides and fertilisers.
Furthermore, each and every part of the flax plant can be used to make clothes, upholstery and other products. Linen clothes are biodegradable which makes it the perfect choice for those who want to look after the environment. There are a number of clothing brands such as Celtic and Co which offer sustainable linen products which are recyclable and biodegradable.
- Hypoallergenic
Many people suffer allergies when they wear certain fabrics. They can develop skin rashes, allergies and other skin conditions which invite other health problems. These allergic reactions are usually due to excess built-up of moisture in the fabric which encourage bacteria and microbes to breed and multiply.
On the other hand, linen fabric is breathable and allows air to circulate freely. This helps in quickly releasing moisture, making it hypoallergenic. Linen clothes will not eliminate your allergies, but they will certainly minimise allergic reactions and discomfort.
- Suitable for all seasons
Linen clothes are popular since they are suitable to be worn during both cold and warm weather. This versatility is one of the biggest advantages of linen fabric. Linen clothes are always popular during summer as they are lightweight and breathable. However, you can also wear linen during autumn and winter.
During winter, linen can be layered underneath warm coats or jackets and is a natural insulator which helps in releasing excess humidity. Fabrics such as wool or cotton will provide you warmth at first but will also make you sweat later. On the other hand, linen is known to retain your body heat while being breathable, so is pleasant and comfortable to wear.
- Comfort
One of the most important factors in choosing an item of clothing to wear is how comfortable it is. A notable quality of linen fabric is that it is very comfortable because it is so breathable, light-weight, hypo-allergenic and eliminates excess moisture. Linen clothes are generally a loose fitting style, making the comfortable for all shapes and sizes, as well as perfect for work, going out, or wearing around the house.
- Versatile
Linen fabric is used to make a variety of clothes in a range of styles. You’ll find linen clothes suitable for any situation, be it a formal office engagement, a casual daytime do, or a dinner event. Linen clothes are available in different cuts which will compliment all shapes and sizes and can be styled with a variety of accessories to suit a casual, sporty or formal event. You can easily team a linen dress or shirt with jackets or scarfs to complete your look.
- Easy maintenance
Although it is important to look after your linen clothes to maximise its life, linen doesn’t require any special treatment or maintenance. Linen clothes can be washed in the washing machine, but avoid using bleach or detergents with optical brighteners which can weaken the fabric. It’s also a good idea to always use cold water as high temperature may damage or shrink line. You should also always naturally air dry linen. If you hang you linen items up to air-dry, you won’t need to iron them: they’ll just be lightly wrinkled, which adds to the beauty of linen clothes.