Linen is a natural product that is obtained from the stems of the flax plant. The use of linen goes all the way back to ancient Egypt. Eventually, European countries took over the traditions and production. The flax plant thrives particularly well in the temperate climate of the Netherlands, Belgium and France. Linen is a sustainable product because flax is a fast grower: it takes about a hundred days to reach maturity. In addition, the plant needs little water and pesticides are unnecessary. This makes the cultivation of linen one of the most environmentally friendly in the world.
In addition to the cooling and ventilating properties, men's linen shirts are also very comfortable. Because it is airy, you can perfectly get some fresh air on the beach in it. It is also easy to create stylish combinations. Do ask yourself what you are going to wear it for. Do you prefer to wear it adventurously, or rather casually at home? You can wear the shirt both tucked in and untucked. You don't need to worry about a little crease here and there; that is precisely part of the charm of linen.
Due to the versatility of linen shirts, it is easy to put together summery outfits. Still, you can also consider other linen clothing. For example, there are comfortable linen shorts or T-shirts. Are you dressing chic this summer? Then choose a linen suit or linen blazer. You look stylish and it also feels nice on the skin! Complete the stylish set with white sneakers and a cotton shirt in a fresh colour such as light blue or white.
Perhaps you have never worn linen or you only have a few linen pieces hanging in your wardrobe. With these practical tips, you will be an expert in no time:
- Follow the washing instructions on the label to prevent deformation, shrinking and wear. Are you using a washing machine? Then run a delicate wash programme (no higher than 30 °C!) with a mild detergent. However, it is better to wash linen by hand in cold water.
- Do not rub or wring out the garment during hand washing! Gently squeeze the linen shirt or other garment to remove excess water.
- Linen has a tendency to crease and that is at the same time the charm of the fabric. Still, there are of course limits. To remove unnecessary creases, iron linen clothing while it is still slightly damp. Turn the garment inside out, set the iron to the highest setting and use the steam function.
- Do not let linen dry in direct sunlight! This can actually cause the colours to fade. In addition, the heat of the dryer can damage the fibres and make your garment shrink. It is best to lay washed linen clothing flat on a towel and let it air-dry.
- Storing men's linen shirts is an art in itself. Provide a cool, dry place. Avoid hangers with sharp points and edges. It is best to use wooden or padded hangers for this. Other linen garments are best neatly folded and laid flat in a wardrobe or drawer. Do make sure that you do not place any heavy objects on top of them; this can cause the fabric to deform. Do not cram the linen clothing together; it needs space to breathe.
- Do you have a stain on your linen shirt? Then every second counts! Gently dab the stain with a damp cloth to remove the excess dirt. After that, you can use stain remover or baking soda with a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice. Whatever you do, do not rub over the stain! Test it first on an inconspicuous spot to see how the fabric reacts.
