Linen textiles are among the oldest in the world—their history traces back more than 5000 years.
For a very long time the linen fabric has been used for table and bed coverings as well as clothing production. In ancient Egypt it was used as a form of currency. Egyptian mummies were also wrapped in linen as a symbol of light and purity and a display of wealth. Linen was a very popular fabric among many different cultures.
Linen dresses, skirts, pants and jackets—everyone had them in the closet. Yet the popularity of this amazing fabric declined. What happened?
Well, linen is not cheap so it was simply replaced by much cheaper synthetic fabrics and cotton. The significant cost of linen derives not only from the difficulty of working with the threads but also a great deal of attention that the flax plant requires. Fortunately, linen is coming back and it is becoming fashionable and popular again.
I truly think that linen is the future. Why?
The first answer is simple: linen is just COMFORTABLE. Today, a linen fabric used for sewing clothes is treated in such a way that it is very soft and pleasant to touch. Some consider linen’s crease as a disadvantage. I see it as a great advantage. The whole charm of the wavy and three-dimensional texture is simply proof that it is a natural fabric.
The ecological implications of the production process of linen are also important for me as I believe that we need to be more environmentally conscious when we make shopping choices. There is no better fabric than the linen for the environment today because it is BIODEGRADABLE. This natural fabric does not pollute our planet during its decomposition. Flax also needs the least polluting cultivation. No pesticides are used in its cultivation as few pests attack flax. Flax cultivation is also free from waste because every part of the plant can be used—for producing paper, insulation materials and even chipboards.
Linen is also HEALTHY. When it comes to direct contact with the skin, linen fabric is the best. It creates an ideal microclimate for the skin. It is great for people who suffer from allergy as it does not cause static or irritation. We also all know the benefit of linen in the summer. It gives us a feeling of coolness because it is breathable. Even if we sweat, the sweat will be absorbed and the fabric will not look damp thanks to its hydrophobic properties. What then is the benefit of linen in the winter? Well, linen has thermoregulatory properties, which means you will be warm in linen clothes without overheating.
“The older, the better”—We strive to buy more durable products that lasts for years. Flax is an ideal carrier of such a philosophy because it is very DURABLE. Linen fibres is the most resistant to friction and stretching among all plant fibres. Unlike cotton fabrics, they do not fade or deform. The more we wash them, the stronger and even more attractive they look. So keep your linen clothes in your wardrobe, treat them well and they will stay beautiful. You will enjoy them for many years!