Back To Basics: Timeless Linens

Image: Beaumont Organics

As part of our regular Back to Basics series, we are shining a spotlight on great wardrobe staples that are made to last. Because timeless basics are the most sustainable pieces you can buy.

The benefits of buying and wearing linen are huge in terms of creating a more sustainable wardrobe for yourself. When thinking of environmental impact, linen is much less harmful to grow than cotton. This is because the flax plant that it is extracted from doesn’t need as much water or as many pesticides to grow as cotton. Not only does this make it more sustainable for farmers to grow but it doesn’t damage the land it’s grown on like cotton does. It’s also thicker and more durable than cotton making it ideal to have in your wardrobe all year round. Linen never goes out of style, this makes it an ideal fabric to invest in.

Linen offers a lot of value for money. Its perfect for warmer climates as it is both breathable and moisture wicking. However you won’t smell sweaty because it doesn’t hold onto bacteria. If undyed, it is entirely biodegradable too so makes for a great circular item to have in your closet.

Image: Mara Hoffman

Tips On Caring For Linen
  • Linen separates and dresses don’t need to be dry cleaned, even if the label insists on it. However a lined linen suit should be eco dry cleaned as it is tricky to maintain it’s shape otherwise.
  • Hand wash with a mild, eco friendly detergent. Try Clothes Doctor’s Signature Detergent, £11.50, here.
  • Linen is stronger wet than dry but to be more planet friendly wash your garment cold in your machine. 30 degrees is perfect.  
  • Allow your garment to dry in the fresh air if you can. Never tumble dry.
  • Air drying will leave your garment with a gorgeous natural texture, however you can also press it with a warm iron when damp for a crisper finish.
  • Dry linen can be refreshed with a spritz of water and a warm iron. Or hang it up while you have a shower to ease out the creases.
  • Less washing is even better for the environment so if your linen isn’t soiled, give it a refreshing spritz of Mr Black’s Linen and Cotton Refresh Spray, £9,instead.

Timeless Linens

The Jumpsuit

Perfect for summer and for the colder months, this tailored style from The Acey is on our wish list. The nipped in waist makes it a great choice for most body shapes. We’ll wear it on it’s own with sandals in summer, then layered over a breton with sneakers when it gets chillier.

The Dress

We love how versatile this neutral dress is. Instantly switch from a tailored work look to a relaxed vacation style by removing the belt. It can also be worn in Autumn with a long sleeve top or shirt underneath and a pair of knee high boots. Its the perfect base for whatever accessories you fancy.

The Trousers

A great peg leg style is evergreen in your wardrobe. This pair has handy button closures at the ankle meaning you can go from neat to relaxed in no time. Wear them with a neutral body or swimsuit and a raffia bag for easy holiday elegance.

The White Tee

A classic in the 31 Chapel Lane offering, this boxy t-shirt is equally perfect for work as it is for play. Simly team it with a tailored suit during the week. At the weekend, transform it into the ultimate relaxed tee with a pretty A line skirt and sandals.

The Jacket

We love the unexpected length of this beautiful jacket from Beaumont Organic. It also doubles up as a shirt dress when worn buttoned up with a leather belt looped at your waist. Use it as an extra layer of warmth in the winter over a white shirt and your favourite denim.

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