Linen Explained - Men's Summer Fabric Guide

Our in-depth guide to the sustainable, durable, time-tested, and quintessential warm-weather fabric: linen.
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#linen #summerfabric #notsponsored
SHOP THE VIDEO:
→ Light Blue Veronica Persica Boutonniere: gentl.mn/2MQ1OKF
→ Silk Pocket Square in Brown with Blue Paisley: gentl.mn/3dPDe8Q
→ Shadow Stripe Ribbed Socks Light Grey and Light Blue: gentl.mn/2XLDyzU
→ White Linen Pocket Square with Navy Blue: gentl.mn/2XPsLEN
→ Dark Blue Linen Pocket Square with White: gentl.mn/2AUO2nD
→ Dark Red Velvet Spray Rose Boutonniere: gentl.mn/3dMVvUk
→ White Carnation Silk Boutonniere: gentl.mn/2YymMn9
→ Turquoise Linen Pocket Square: gentl.mn/3hbnkHZ
GUIDES YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS:
→ Does “Made In” Matter?: gentl.mn/3cNDqEm
→ Cotton Explained: gentl.mn/2XNZSsA
→ Wool Explained: gentl.mn/3h8YYhY
→ Summer Suits Guide: gentl.mn/37jioMp
→ Summer Fabrics Guide: gentl.mn/3f2T8Nc
→ Wardrobe Maintenance Essentials: gentl.mn/37g34Ak
→ Ironing Tutorial Playlist: gentl.mn/3hbRQkN
VIDEO CREDITS:
→ Script: Ana Liza Banaynal & Sven Raphael Schneider
→ Camera: Teresa C. Schneider
→ Editing: Jonathan Oster
IMAGE CREDITS:
→ Etsy-Seller: Lovelyhomedia
→ MDPI
→ Jeffbrowngraphics.com
→ The Human Origin Project
→ Vova
→ George Washington's Mount Vernon
→ Victoria And Albert Museum
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Linen was found to probably be the oldest fabric from plant sources following that era. It is made from the flax plant, the oldest plant cultivated by humans. The plant’s Latin name Linum Usitatissimum is where the name linen was derived.
After centuries, many industries challenged the flax industry as linen was expensive to produce. The quality of linen, however, is undeniably there--it’s strong and sturdy, which is why it remains relevant in many industries.
Today, as the movement to more natural eco-friendly clothing has become more popular, linen is a sought after fabric, not just for summer. That’s because production leaves less ecological footprint than synthetic or artificial produced counterparts.
The natural linen fiber is much stronger, more lustrous, and also rougher than cotton. The fabric is crisp, absorbent, and wears cool because the weave is typically loose enough to let air through. Being porous in nature, linen has heat and moisture-wicking properties, and you won’t have static or pilling problems, unlike many artificial fibers. It’s perfect for hot weather, keeping you comfortable and in style.
Because of the long fibers (18-30 inches), it doesn’t bend or springs back easily, making it prone to wrinkling. Unlike wool, which hardly wrinkles naturally, linen has very pronounced wrinkles, and while cotton wrinkles look not very nice and like you simply forgot to iron, linen wrinkles are so bold, that it is part of the charm of the fabric. Linen makes you look casually stylish rather than wrinkled cotton, which looks frumpy.
As mentioned earlier, it’s absorbent, so it dyes easily, and you can see linen in many colors, other than the natural yellowish or beige color. Linen doesn’t stretch much naturally, so make sure you have enough room in your garment. But overall, it’s a comfortable fabric to wear and over time, it gets softer.
Caring For Linen
15:00 Washing
A lukewarm hand wash or machine wash in delicate cycle cleans linen best. Use mild detergents and softener to keep it in good condition. If you need to deal with stains, do not use chlorine bleach. Gently squeeze excess water and then simply hang dry. It’s best to read and follow the care label.
15:48 Ironing
Linen is mostly lightweight, it isn’t always easy to iron smooth. Iron or steam it before it is completely dry. Use ample heat so that it gets in shape, usually the highest setting. However, keep in mind that linen wrinkles easily and that is the charm of the fabric.
Linen is a great fabric for warmer months as it has airy features. It is made with such care and craftsmanship, and it’s hard-wearing which makes it valuable textiles. It’s eco-friendly, too, which is why it is sought after all year round today.
16:21 Outfit Rundown

[@julijakeit]

I convinced my husband into wearing linen pants and shirts for summer instead of jeans. He now buys linen clothing himself. More ironing for me but he looks amazing.

[@jimtamim1708]

Where to buy linen pants?

[@OrrosGG]

@@jimtamim1708 Buy linen suits, plenty of them and mix them with the spezzato technique, it is rare to find separate linen pants. Plus sometimes suits come at a greater price compared to separate linen pants.

[@jimtamim1708]

@@OrrosGG tyvm sir

[@Snowboy2015]

you make a wigga wanna be your husband..😉

[@raupenimmersatt6906]

@@jimtamim1708 Take a look at Pini Parma or Anton Meyer pants- both make stuff which puts other panta for 3x the price to shame and have features which you will mostly only find on bespoke pants.

[@krunoslavkovacec1842]

Linen is a wonderful material. The effortles wrinkles are a thing of beauty.

[@random-jj7ix]

This sounds ironic😂

[@reneegiese6315]

There is nothing better in summer.

[@stylewithaltitude]

I agree I'm not sure why most people complain about the wrinkles. That's what makes it stylish, effortless and unique with the texture. It's going to wrinkle even if you iron and steam that day. Only a man of class can appreciate that.

[@SCwirlify]

It is so beautiful! The "wrinkled" look of linen brings one's mind's eye to the Hobo's attire. Like how the American 20's Hobo down on his luck would still keep a style. But when worn in a modern tight and conscious way, it gives a calming casual significance. At least.. That is what I think.

[@MrDanielWP]

Which wrinkles require effort? This comment makes no sense.

[@MM-cl7vv]

Linen is an awesome, life-changing fabric. Everyone should own at least one linen shirt for being out in the sun.

[@kenneth7826]

Brother Ambrose I agree with you...I dont own any linen shirts..but pants and sports jackets I own and put them to great use..PEACE..wrinkles?.. who cares...SMILE

[@julijakeit]

linen shirt and pants. Nothing beats linen clothing for its cooling quality, availability and price. Silk is a bit better but it's not as available and I have not seen silk pants, especially for men, maybe some super high end designer catering to the royalty. In other words, linen clothing is even in junk fashion shops like H&M.

[@kenneth7826]

@@julijakeit good morning...I have seen a pair of silk pants for men......super duper expensive....plus it didn't stand out ..except for the prize..peace..don't forget wear your mask

[@stylewithaltitude]

True. I tried to tell an older man to go with linen since he asked me if I liked a shirt he picked out for a wedding for summer and I gave him a better option. He said that cotton is more breathable. Man he would have been the most stylish guy at the wedding with the charm of linen but said "I just wanted to argue". Lol

[@christiangovig5899]

I bought my first linen suit about a month ago and it’s been worn a lot since then. Everybody asks if I’m hot but I’m like “No, it’s all in your fabric choices.”

[@briannawilliams7370]

Me too I’m cool as a southern plantation owner with a glass of iced lemonade in my linen jacket

[@dzsonigold]

Would you try washing them at home? (The pants at least)

[@christiangovig5899]

@@dzsonigold I wash all my suits and jackets at home, I actually learned how from the video on the Gentleman's Gazette.

[@lsshvs8415]

My family has an amazing history in Flax, I wear my linen blazer with pride.

[@paulsaul2487]

Better than a history in flux

[@Snowboy2015]

@@paulsaul2487 lol..cornball

[@carltrotter7622]

Can we just pay our respects to the man that is on the drums in the background for upwards of 30 minutes at a time? You are really good at these manufacturing videos, can you go through the making of a plumbus next time? Thanks! -Carl

[@CTN-dj7fr]

I once saw a comment on another one of his videos that said that it sounds like somebody is building a shed in the background of the video. lol

[@typereiter]

Legend has it he never left the pocket

[@stylewithaltitude]

Respect to the man that has to loop the track while editing and make it on beat lol

[@bloom1934]

Loved the explanation of how linen is made from field to factory.

[@subhodeepbasu2602]

It's so amazing to see how much deep content this channel puts on. Watching every video feels like reading an encyclopedia.

[@michaelblackburn498]

This is the best video that I've seen you do. Great history (especially loved the process videos), great discussion of the fabric, and great explanation of the appeal.

[@gohantanaka]

Educational as always. I think many of your videos are great for those looking to supplement their children’s education.

[@gingicomingi]

Digging his presentation and style. I learn something new with this guy in every video. Keep up the great work!!!

[@lcoley9909]

Very informative video. As a teacher of textiles and fashion I was listening for information on clothes for women using linen fabric. Your information lines up with what learners need to know.

[@cryptomadic8083]

Fantastic and simple explanations. Thanks guys. Just in time for summer

[@dereinegreg]

I love linen. In summer on hot days, there’s nothing better than breathable linen shirts and trousers. Thanks for the video!

[@fixitman347]

Amazing. This is excellent information. Thank you gentlemen.

[@kbrett2004]

Great video. It has opened my eyes to this fabric and now I'm excited to trying some pieces for this summer. Thanks guys

[@user-uf3ht4hq9h]

Very informative video!! thanks for producing this. This video is very in depth, and provides lots of technical insights about linen production, the variety of fabrics available for shirts. jackets, other linen products. Well worth spending the 18minutes to watch this video!

[@AntPDC]

Absolutely wonderful content and presentation, thank you Raphael.

[@anderstietz809]

This my 2nd favorite vid from GG. #1 is properly tying shoes. Thanks!

[@ihopetowin]

Wonderful process. I really enjoy wearing linen.

[@bheinatz1]

Beautiful jacket, Raphael! One of the best looking I've seen you wear.

[@nigelwest5776]

Wasn't expecting a history lesson to! Amazing job with your channel guys

[@MegaTubetiger]

Very helpful & informative. Thanks. I really like your linen jacket and color combinations in the suit. Very snazzy!

[@blinkinbaboonbiskit]

This was a wonderful primer on Linen!!! THANK YOU!!!!

[@madlenyoung2472]

Love Linen..... both for Men And women clothing. This was very informative, As Usual! Love this channel. Thanks...

[@lessonlearned8726]

I learned SO much from this video! Thank you!!!!!

[@MmeDesgranges]

Best video for a while, good work!

[@the_9ent]

Interesting info I didn’t know before about this material. That light grey doubled breasted jacket is 🔥

[@Jojothegodofrandom]

As a history major I find that you to hit me with these curveballs of facts and I absolutely love it!

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Very educational video. I learned a lot. Thanks for the upload.

[@ketaminetiger]

Just found this channel, after acquiring some linen casualwear today and doing some fashion searching. Excellent content!

[@MarcelGomesPan]

I like a lot that you give advice on how to care for different materials. 👍❤️

[@andreleverettejr3747]

Yes what ive been waiting for I LOVE linen for the summer, I live in Texas, enough said

[@kenneth7826]

Brother Andre...just put it on....put it on

[@IamErikaW]

I live in Arizona and I just discovered in the last year! I love it. I just picked up 3 linen shirts at the thrift store for $0.99 each!

[@Jessroxxurxsoxify]

Wonderful video as always! ❤️

[@lobsterthemobster2032]

Oh wow i love linen! Imagine is one of my favorite songs!

[@tanmaydeshpande108]

Thank you for the tip on ironing of linen cloths. For summer I would go for linen cloths.

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

I absolutely adore a gent who looks like he is in a well traveled linen summer suit replete with the appropriate accessories ie a decent hat, pocket square, summery belt and cheerful shoes. Those gentlemen always look so jaunty. There was a gent I saw briefly when I was arriving back at my hotel in Sydney cbd. I just saw him chat to concierge about something and they seemed to know each other. I only noticed him as he had this most wonderful crumpled creamy linen suit and light blue shirt and mid brown shoes and belt and if I recall correctly, there was a neckerchief or something around his neck, maybe checkered? it was late spring. This was about 15 years ago. It was his attire that arrested my attention. Later, dining at the hotel restaurant he was there with his acquaintances a table over and chatting about wines in the Alsace region like Riquewihr ( got totally lost there driving in 2004.. the road signs were totally confusing.. took ages to get back to Fegersheim for our dear friend’s lunch hour.) I was sorely tempted to say something to the fellow but didn’t. I thought it was lovely someone else had been to that area. It’s not common in Sydney Australia. Turned out, he owned the restaurant business there which was fabulous as dinner was superb but anyways. Reminiscing again! I’ve always found linen to be quite sturdy, I love the thicker stuff as it’s the best cloth for cleaning and shining glass or crystal I feel. Sven, you mention using a fabric softener.. I personally wouldn’t. I do not like coating my natural fibres with fabric softeners. If I would use something, I would place the linen in a starch bath but that’s more for getting it stiff heavy and pressed. Then dry, steam iron after of course. Thank you for putting this upload on, I love your take on fibres and their care. Incredibly informative.. Thank you 😊

[@devonhayes2209]

I read all of this in an Australian accent which made the story’s 10 times more entertaining. Appreciate it

[@krunoslavkovacec1842]

An interrsting story. Thank you for sharing.

[@kenneth7826]

Love your story...bravo!

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

Krunoslav Kovacec I just googled the fellow, he passed recently. It was Tony Bilson .. now I wish I did say something to him xx

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

Devon Hayes I am glad I amused you somewhat. Do you know what is not amusing? Getting back to your host's house for lunch on time. Good thing that the Vosge isnt far from my midday tummy-time on that trip xx

[@operamatthew]

one of your best videos! great job

[@isla25]

Excellent video, your clothing was extra fabulous today, thank you.

[@danielpaulson3631]

This is a great video. Thanks for a good lecture! Very interesting.

[@sally3570]

Lovely & helpful video. Thank you.

[@jrooney58]

Years ago I had some linen neckties. They were some of my favorite ties.

[@mizfrenchtwist]

hello , i love linen and have loads of it . i know your channel , is geared towards men but i enjoy the content and find it to be very informative.....great share , thank you , for sharing..........

[@niteeshbihade1789]

Ah! I never knew linen can be so good - I bought a couple of these expensive linen shirts and was lamenting before I saw your video. Thanks for that information.

[@rodneyarnoldi]

Most interesting...I learnt a lot from the video. Thank you.

[@yasiryarkhan663]

Linen is a gift for summers from nature.

[@anthonysanni6224]

Your outfit combination here is excellent Raphael.

[@claremiller9979]

My mum has been recommending linen shirts to me for a few years, from a company called Assembly here in Australia. I'd resisted, because of the "rumpled" look and more ironing, but I am now thinking to reconsider to be able to wear more classic looking clothes in summer without getting hot. Synthetics definitely don't compare, except possibly in the sportswear arena which is hardly office appropriate!

[@bonyadibrand9521]

this video was very perfect . thanks for your video and your information .

[@mrkoolzaad2]

Enjoyed this video very much.

[@FrOsTyBeArKiD]

I mean this video was also a major flex for this guy but the video was also super informational. I only seen the machinery but the by hand footage was brutal already lol

[@simonmerkle6708]

Very informative video about a great but underrated fabric!

[@IanJudge]

I quite like the color of those pants. Great video as usual!

[@williamkazak469]

A great video. Thank you. I always wear linen shirts in the summer in the Midwest.

[@katyg3873]

Have a Zegna super fine linen blazer. It’s so fine and smooth I actually thought it had silk in the blend but it didn’t. It’s beautiful.

[@just1desi]

Brilliant video idea

[@gentlemanscorner3335]

I need a summer suit that feels like I’m still in the air conditioning when outdoors haha

[@tonydeltablues]

A superbly informative video - I'm so pleased when I watch Gentleman's Gazette content as I learn so much and see potential for future sartorial development :-) Thanks. Tony

[@JoJo-xp6wr]

I was just watching GoodFellas and then Raphael comes with this video about summer fabric suits. Coincidence, I think not! 😂😂

[@peterdavidasige8073]

I wear an Irish linen sombrero. It was prussain blue when I bought it but as I spend time in the sun it has now become light grey. I love the weave and when it gets out of shape ( I don't use a hat box) I just use a damp cloth and let the sun dry it. I has great memory.

[@antoinejackson9293]

That’s a flawless DB you’re wearing homie!

[@gpk7683]

Boy, do I ever need this!

[@blueliar]

woaw thanks... u explained it all... loves the video

[@juniorcampbell2980]

That was really informative

[@hannamakela6989]

That outfit...a thing of beauty even by GG standards! :) Keep doing more of these material-themed videos! :)

[@Tidebo1]

Linen is hands down the best summer fabric.

[@connorism69]

Have you posted any videos focusing on peculiarly coloured blazers and shoes? If not, any chance of a video on how to effectively take the risk of picking bold colours (e.g., purple) for important components of one's outfit (i.e., blazer, pants, shoes)? Everyone seems to dress very predictably and safely at the events that I attend, so I am interested in exploring avenues to cleverly break the trend.

[@achsahkaleb4844]

1 min in and I just want to acknowledge you for 1. mentioning the Holy Scriptures. 2. your knowledge and 3 brilliant channel and the way you conduct yourself. I can listen to your voice forever. well done. Are you Irish? Love the accent.

[@HitroLis]

Good video, thank you ☘️

[@MrWolf-xk8sl]

I always wanted to ask you, since I love wearing suits, from which shops do you buy your suits? Do you prefer any international brand in particular?

[@adrianostberg2337]

Could you make a video on HM's Premium Quality line? Espeially their linen jackets and their trenchcoat. that would be realy helpful

[@JR-hi9bu]

If you can get ralph lauren and other similar quality brands for like 50 quid on ebay there's no real point in getting anything from hm ever

[@adrianostberg2337]

J R I personally do not like buying second hand, because I do not know where the old clothes have been

[@JR-hi9bu]

@@adrianostberg2337 you can buy new items on eBay for that price, too, and you could just get it laundered.

[@JR-hi9bu]

@@MalteWilsen I don't care whether or not he asked for advice. Why not remind him that he could always get better value elsewhere?

[@stylewithaltitude]

@@JR-hi9bu When people say quid it always reminds me of Jeremy Clarkson from Top Gear

[@ergonautilus]

Linen is the fabric of the gods.

[@steampunkvampyre]

Great video

[@dumisanimahlambi7836]

Linen and the beach in summer of course, they go hand in hand👏

[@leonchristianisraelquirozv4770]

Now they that explained to me I will use more often my linen pants

[@jkrause365]

I've absolutely fallen in love with linen.

[@reneegiese6315]

Me too. Very comfortable in sunny climate. I prefer Irish linen. High quality stuff.

[@greggcollins4215]

At one time Linen was the media of choice for draftsmen to draw designs on. It was heavily starched and was great for inked drawings.

[@marcorances956]

Wow. I didn't know that linen and flax comes from the same plant. I like linen in my sheets and clothes (currently in a tropical country so yeah). I also eat a lot of flax. So, wow. The linum plant is awesome!

[@naveedboda8910]

Wow what a great video

[@symoneprice798]

watched for one minute and 48 seconds and you have a new subscriber?

[@TheDanielduong]

That is a beautiful sport coat! I can’t tell from the video, but are there shoulder pads and lining? Does it matter? Or is it personal preference? Thank you!

[@dennisc.115]

Please include the fabric weight in grams in the future too. Not everyone knows how many Assault Rifle bullets per football field equals 300 grams

[@36424567254]

this comment is pure gold

[@MartinParnham]

Another brilliant Austin Reed poster! Where do you get them!?

[@bl4kn30]

Great video, very informative (and very nice sport jacket). I have a question : I've bought a pure linen trousers on suitsupply, and they indicate 'dry cleaning only'. I don't understand why, is that really necessary ?

[@bl4kn30]

@@Xerame506 thank you for the answer :)

[@newtonyates9277]

Would you guys ever consider brining back any of the linen neckwear you carried?

[@blinkinbaboonbiskit]

I greatly appreciate you!!!!

[@Ashwekar]

Guys for those of us who live in South Asia, a video focused on hot humid weather focused fabrics would be great!

[@jasonvoorhees895]

Ever since my first linen shirt, I've been a fan. I freakin' love me some linen...right up until that day when I hate it.

[@-RONNIE]

Excellent video 👏👏👏 I don't know what's going on with KZbin but I haven't received notifications in a while besides this one. I'll keep an eye on it.

[@gentlemansgazette]

You have to hit the little bell next to the subscribe button, that way you should get a notification for every video

[@-RONNIE]

@@gentlemansgazetteI've been a long time subscriber. It's my fault I realized what I did I am not on my main account anymore because it was deleted.

[@nomobties]

Can such linen jacket be paired with let’s say a Henley in linen or Cotten with chinos? How about using T-shirts and blue jeans?

[@mamatasahu4934]

You are my fashion school 🎒📚 ❤❤

[@alliumsociedademedica9940]

BRavo!!! From Brasil , your a great!!

[@devinhurt7698]

Sanders chukka's are they worth it?

[@myvenusinuranus]

linen shirts are my favorite

[@JayTVIndia]

Hi sir.., I'm a huge fan .., video was very informative and detailed.., I would like you to make a video about an Indian fabric called " Khadi' which is just like 'Linen' thanks again..,🙏🙏

[@urielmartinez6279]

Wonderful!

[@miikkak4778]

Hey gents, would you recommend linen shirts in white? It tends to be awkwardly transparent, that I atleast feel I must use undershirt to wear it. But then I feel the whole idea of linen shirt goes away, as I do like the breeziness that it have. Other colours seems fine with transparency. Or is it just about the fabric type?

[@abchappell01]

That was a wonderful discussion of linen fabric. Thank you very much.😊

[@Simku]

Fascinating! Thank you for the explanations and images! ( sad to see my French flag with its colors reversed though!)

[@LucasFerreira-qe5ct]

I wish I could find that sport coat, too bad they don't sell it anymore, a great piece!