With its origins tracing back hundreds of centuries, linen has long been a staple fabric in the world of fashion. Derived from the flax plant, this strong and durable material is most frequently used in relaxed shirting and flowy dresses, with its versatility and adaptability allowing for ease of wear. Beyond its aesthetic charm, linen is also cultivated in a far more sustainable way as compared to cotton, wool or leather, further elevating its desirability within a fashion landscape that has become increasingly eco-conscious.
Another distinctive factor that linen possesses over other commonly-used fabrics is its breathability, making it ideal for tropical climates such as Singapore that face stifling heat and humidity year round. However, despite all of its fine qualities, many still steer clear of this fabric, perhaps due to a generalisation on how most linen garments tend to be formless and slouchy when worn on body, in mundane and unassuming tones of greys and browns.
Diverting from this perspective, there have been plenty of brands in recent years which have adopted innovative approaches to incorporating linen within their designs. Heritage houses such as Zegna and Loro Piana continue to produce knitwear and outerwear in premium linen-silk blends, while smaller emerging labels have looked to injecting colour the natural fabric with unique plant and fruit dyes.
Below, Vogue Singapore rounds up the best linen pieces on the market right now, across a wide range of brands and styles. Boasting a good mix of elevated wardrobe basics and esoteric statement pieces, there are a variety of ways one can incorporate it into their wardrobes:
1 / 27
Soft tailoring
For those searching for an alternative to traditional suiting, linen blazers and coats tend to lend a more casual edge to conventional cotton or wool options. These pieces are flowier and less structured in form, such as the Harvy jacket from The Row, which boasts a shawl lapel and unlined body whilst still retaining a level of refinement and poise.
3 / 27
Bottega Veneta relaxed striped shirt, $1,930
Available at Bottega Veneta.
7 / 27
Maximalist summer
While linen is often thought of as a minimalist’s choice, there is certainly room for louder designers. Opt for statement pieces that feature unique textures or colours, such as R13’s floral-printed cardigan with heavy hem distressing, or Zimmerman’s minidress in a bright shade of canary.
12 / 27
An elegant affair
If chic and timeless is what you are after, consider pared-back basics in all-white. Brands such as Lemaire and The Row make quality linen staples, everyday pieces that embody the brands’ ethos of superior craftsmanship. As for accessories, a pair of all-white tabi flats and a canvas handbag make for trusty options that can be worn for Sunday brunch or a romantic dinner date.
17 / 27
Lessons in draping
The breathability of linen allows for layering and changing up one’s silhouette without worrying about the heat or humidity. Cohesiveness is key with this, so start with a solid base before completing the ensemble with a slouchy jacket or shawl. Attenuated separates in muted shades of sand, oatmeal, and mauve complement each other well, and boast an acute attention to detail.
23 / 27
Mix and match
Linen is also often associated with resort and beach wear, with their unfussy appearance and ease of wear making them ideal for island life. Co-ord sets with matching prints make for effortless sartorial choices when it comes to packing for quick getaways, playful attires that scream of summer.
