To mark the release of our new linen collection, we take you on a deep-dive on our favourite warm weather fabric, as we answer all your pressing questions on what makes linen our hero fabric, and how to style and care for your linen clothing.
Why is linen so good for summer?
As the warmer weather approaches, and hot summer holidays draw near, we all crave breathable fabric that feels good against the skin. This is where linen fabric shines- it is comfortable, lightweight and airy, as well as being easy to style with just about everything.
Linen is a timeless summer classic for a reason and it isn’t going to date, meaning you can wear your pieces for years to come.
Where does linen come from?
Linen material comes from the flax plant, and all parts of the plant are used. Linen has less of an environmental impact than cotton, as it needs less water, and it can grow in poor soil and so requires less resources. Because it is a natural material, linen fabric is also completely biodegradable.
Flax is predominantly grown in Western Europe, which reduces carbon footprint as it requires less transportation to the UK. Our OEKO-TEX linen comes from flax grown without pesticides or irrigation, making it more environmentally friendly and premium quality.
How is linen made?
After the flax plants are harvested, the flax fibres are separated from the stem, following which they are dried. Next, the flax is then broken down to separate the fibres, and the pieces of stem are removed from the fibre.
As our linen is OEKO-TEX certified, this process of extracting the fibres is completely mechanical, without the use of chemicals. After the fibres are extracted, they are combed to remove debris, leaving smooth, thin strands of fabric. Next, the fibres are spun into yarn which can then be woven into linen fabric with a loom.
Why is linen so expensive?
Flax plants are difficult to harvest, and the process of taking flax from seeds to harvest is very labour intensive. In addition to this, the process of making the fabric is slow, because the fibres are fragile and need to be weaved either by hand or using a machine that works at a slower rate, which means that less fabric can be made within a certain time frame.
Linen that is good for both people and the planet means not cutting corners, so our OEKO-TEX linen does not involve the use of chemicals, which makes the process more time consuming and expensive.
As making linen material is a time and labour-intensive process, and we want to make sure that everybody involved along the supply chain is paid fairly, this significantly adds to the cost, but we think that this is a price that is more than worth paying.
How to wash linen?
We would recommend washing our linen on a delicate wash at 30°C, using a mild (ideally environmentally friendly) detergent. Alternatively you can handwash in lukewarm water, again with mild detergent, making sure not to wring or twist the garments. Linen should not be tumble dried, and should only be ironed on a low setting.
Does linen shrink?
Linen can shrink, especially when exposed to high temperatures and harsh chemicals, which is why we always recommend to wash them on a cool setting, using a delicate detergent and a gentle cycle to prevent damage to the fibres.
Can you iron linen?
Yes, however we would recommend using a low setting to prevent heat damage, and ironing while damp to stop the iron from burning the linen and make it easier to iron out the creases.
Fanfare's Linen Pieces
If you’re looking for some new items of linen clothing to take you through this summer and summers to come, we have put together our favourite pieces below for you to shop:
Our linen suits are come in 3 different colourways- navy, blue and beige, and can be purchased as linen co-ords with either shorts or trousers. Wear them separately or together, they are sure to be able to take you from day to night, pairing well with either trainers or heels.
Shirt and Short Linen Co-ord Set
Our linen shorts and shirt sets are perfect for channelling effortlessly chic summer style. These linen co-ords can be styled multiple ways- ideal for layering over bikinis on the beach, or paired with trainers for sightseeing round cities. If travelling light they are perfect to be rolled into your hand luggage and worn separately or together for maximum outfit combinations.
Linen wide leg trousers
Our new wide leg linen trousers are set to be a summer staple, and will instantly elevate your outfit. We can’t wait to pair our beige linen trousers with the matching linen vest top to create an effortlessly classic linen waistcoat co-ord.
Linen vest top
If you’ve been asking what to wear with linen trousers, look no further than our linen waistcoat. Matching seamlessly with our linen wide leg trousers, you will be sure to turn heads with this winning combination.
Knee length linen shorts
Linen bermuda shorts are here to stay, and we can’t wait to pair our tailored linen shorts with our Fanfare Label t-shirts for maximum comfort and style.
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