The Feel of 100% Linen
100% linen embodies effortless sophistication with a crisp, cool touch. Its distinct texture and natural breathability evoke sunlit afternoons and relaxed luxury.
Perfect for warm climates or layering, linen carries a sense of history and freshness that feels both timeless and modern.
What Is 100% Linen?
Linen is made exclusively from fibers of the flax plant. Unlike cotton, linen fibers are longer and thicker, creating a fabric known for its strength, moisture-wicking ability, and unique texture. It’s lightweight yet durable, with a natural luster and a slight crispness that softens over time.
A Storied Heritage
Linen’s roots stretch back thousands of years to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Its use in clothing and household textiles has persisted across cultures for its durability and cooling properties. Today, linen is prized for sustainable fashion and breathable summer clothing.
Common Garments + Notable Brands
100% linen is often found in summer dresses, lightweight shirts, trousers, and home textiles. Brands celebrated for linen include:
- Sézane – chic, breezy French styles
- Frank & Oak – sustainable seasonal collections
- COS – minimalistic and modern linen pieces
- Madewell – easy, everyday linen staples
Linen Blends and Variants
Linen is frequently blended with cotton for softness or with synthetic fibers for wrinkle resistance.
Daily Care & How to Clean
Linen benefits from straightforward maintenance to keep it looking its best. Between washes, simple habits can maintain freshness:
- Air garments after wear to reduce wrinkles and odors.
- Spot clean small stains promptly.
- Store folded or hung loosely to maintain shape.
- A light spritz of a clothing refresher spray or occasional home dry cleaning can help maintain freshness.
Washing & Drying Instructions
Cleaning linen properly extends its life and enhances its natural softness over time:
- Wash: Machine wash on a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water.
- Detergent: Use a mild detergent without bleach, which can weaken the natural fibers.
- Drying: Air dry flat or hang to prevent shrinkage and maintain texture. Avoid tumble drying on high heat.
- Ironing: For a smooth finish, iron while the garment is still damp, using a medium to high heat setting.
Common Linen Care Issues & Solutions
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wrinkling | Natural property of flax fibers | Iron while damp or use a steamer. Embrace the natural texture as part of linen's charm. |
| Shrinkage | High heat from washing or drying | Follow cold water washing and air drying guidelines to minimize shrinkage. |
| Stiffness | New fabric; hard water | Linen softens with each wash. Proper drying helps maintain softness. |
| Fading | Washing friction and sun exposure | Protect colors by washing inside out and drying away from direct sun. |
Linen FAQs
Is linen easy to care for?
With gentle washing and proper drying, linen is durable and relatively low-maintenance, becoming softer and stronger with use.
Can I machine wash linen?
Yes, but always use cold water and a gentle or delicate cycle to protect the natural fibers.
How do I keep linen wrinkle-free?
The easiest way is to iron linen while it is still damp or use a garment steamer. Hanging clothes immediately after wearing also helps reduce wrinkles.
Can linen be refreshed without washing?
Yes, you can try a home dry cleaning system or use a fabric refresher spray to keep your linen garments fresh between washes.