Linen - the summer’s must have
Summer is upon us and therefore the choice of materials in your clothing can have a big impact on your comfort if you still want to look good and not like you're going on a beach holiday. Linen, is a product that divides the waters, but it is an essential summer product and we will explain why in this article.
On the hottest days in Denmark, you'd almost prefer to be able to avoid putting clothes on. But probably no one but yourself will benefit from this solution. One way to avoid this is to use materials that are suitable for the season and linen is perfect for that. Linen is not as tightly woven as cotton for example, and is therefore more breathable and lightweight.
In the last century, linen and linen fabrics for clothing have had a somewhat modest role compared to the past, in favour of the cheaper cotton. More recently, however, linen has experienced a resurgence, largely thanks to its beautiful appearance and the fine properties of the material.
What is linen?
Linen is a natural material made from the flax plant and its stalk. The material has cooling and relaxing properties that make it suitable for the summer months. The plant is usually grown in a slightly colder climate, which is why Russia, the Baltic States and parts of China have become major producers, but there was also a major production of flax in Ireland and Scandinavia in the past.
The material often has a very matt surface that can look a little rough at first glance. That is why we consider it a more casual material than others, such as fine wool qualities, which are easier to achieve a higher gloss with, for example, when making suits.
What makes linen such a good material in summer?
Compared to other materials, such as cotton, linen has an incredibly high ability to absorb moisture. As much as 20% of its own weight can be absorbed before it starts to feel damp, in addition to which it can absorb 50% of its own weight. That's twice as much as cotton fabric and is one of the reasons why the material is often used for dishtowels and hand towels, but is also suitable for clothing on hot summer days.
As well as absorbing moisture well, linen is quick to dry again. This is because the fibres from which the fabric is made are hollow, which means air can flow through more easily.
The material is also very durable and is one of the most durable fibres we use on a daily basis. Unlike many other materials, linen just gets stronger when it's damp. The fabric is also not particularly elastic, which means it rarely loses its shape or gives way, and if it's good quality, it holds its shape wash after wash.
How do you wear linen?
Linen is primarily a material for summer use and therefore the main colours are khaki, beige, white, army, navy or light blue. The casual look makes the look work well with a pair of loafers.
The linen shirt
Probably the most classic choice and the easiest way to get started using linen clothing in your attire. A white or blue shirt is often a good choice with a pair of chinos for a simple and stylish summer outfit.
Linen trousers and shorts
Linen trousers and shorts are available in several models. On the one hand, the more relaxed ones for holidays, which have a slightly looser fit and a drawstring waist. A bit like the summer trousers of leisure. But still a model that can be very elegant with a casual accentuated outfit, for example a sweater and a pair of loafers.
And then there are the more elegant linen trousers, often worn with a blazer in the form of a suit. They work really well as a casual way to tone down a smart summer outfit, combining great details like pressed pleats with softer, smoother materials like a cotton t-shirt.
Linen is here to stay
Every self-aware man with a classic way of dressing should at least own a linen shirt or trousers. If not, now is the season to acquire it. Summer is here and the garment you should own for those hot summer days should be made of linen.