I made the happy discovery a little while back that I’m descended from a 17th century North European linen weaver. It’s pathetically atavistic, I know, but I like to indulge myself with the notion that I can’t help it: my blood simply appreciates fine linen and any resistance is futile. I’m drafting a letter to this effect for my bank manager.
Vintage linen sheet
Fashion Incubator has brought me something rather wonderful, and not for the first time this week; it was even in the same blog post as yesterday’s corduroy story. Despite its title, there’s nothing B about this little movie on the subject of linen. It brings such wonderful words: ‘retting’ (softening by soaking in water or exposing to moisture) and ‘scutching’ (dressing by beating). And if you’ve ever wondered where the phrase ‘flaxen-haired’ originated, all will be revealed. Prepare to be riveted by its beauty.
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I LOVE linen … in the summer I LIVE in it!
It gets so hot, and now often humid, here in Melbourne that linen is the 'only' fabric for me. It's cool, soft and swishes as I move … cooling in itself.
I NEVER iron my linen clothing – because it crushes SO easily, I find it looks better unironed. I always handwash it and hang it wet, to drip dry … giving it a soft, slightly textured, gently-crumpled yet not creased look.
So … 2 blog posts in a row = 2 fabrics that I love … good going!!
A xo
I really love linen too, though I don't think I always have the knack of elegant wear. You do have to fully embrace the crushed look, don't you? But for summer comfort, nothing comes close.