Here at Bonmarché, we love a wardrobe favourite, and linen is no exception. It's effortlessly chic, keeps you cool, and the natural properties of the fabric mean you don't need to worry about over-creasing! So why, if we love linen so much, do we blend it with other fabrics? Find out everything you need to know about linen and linen-blend below!
Linen blend is exactly what it says on the tin: a mix of natural linen with other fabrics like viscose or polyester. Think of it as linen with a little helping hand - softer, easier to look after, and much less likely to leave you looking like you've had a nap on the garden lounger. If you’re weighing up linen vs linen blend, it often comes down to comfort, creasing, and whether you fancy ironing that day!
Linen has longer fibers than cotton, which makes it slightly thicker and stronger (great for lasting more than one season!). But blend it with a little polyester or viscose, and suddenly you’ve got a fabric that’s soft, comfy and doesn’t crease the second you sit down. Win-win!
Linen is a textile made from the fibres of the flax plant which is a renewable resource that requires less water and fewer pesticides than cotton. One of the oldest known textiles in the world, linen fabric was highly prized in ancient times because of its durability, breathability, and moisture absorption. It was used for various purposes, including clothing, bedding, and even wrapping mummies! In the Middle Ages, linen production became an important industry in Europe, with flax being grown and processed into fabric in many countries, including Belgium, Ireland, and France. During this time, linen fabric was highly valued by the wealthy, becoming a symbol of luxury and prestige. Today, linen remains ever popular, especially when the sun decides to make an appearance. Lightweight, breathable and effortlessly stylish, linen and linen-blend clothing are what we reach for when it’s too hot for denim but too soon for bare legs!
There are actually several different types of linen, but the most commonly recognised ones are:
The beauty of linen (and linen blend) is that it gets better after every single wash (no, we're not kidding!), softer and more supple - the more you wear and wash your linen, the more fabulous it looks. Which brings us on nicely to our next point…
The best way to wash linen and linen blend is with a bit of TLC. Stick to a mild detergent and wash it in lukewarm or cold water on a low temperature setting – or go old-school with a gentle hand wash. Think spa day, not spin cycle. Skip the bleach and fabric softeners (they're not doing your linen any favours), and resist the temptation to bung it in the tumble dryer – heat can shrink and damage the fabric. Instead, let it air dry somewhere shady. Peg it out, pop the kettle on, and let the breeze do the work.
Linen blend doesn’t crease quite as much as 100% linen, so you won’t look like you’ve slept in it by lunchtime. That said, it’s still linen at heart, and the odd wrinkle is part of its charm. If your garment’s looking a little too lived-in, give it a quick press while it’s still damp. Use a medium-hot iron with the steam setting on: iron light or white linens on both sides, and stick to the reverse for darker colours.
Linen is a lightweight and breathable fabric that is perfect for hot weather. However, linen can sometimes be see-through, especially when it is in lighter colours. To prevent this, it's essential to choose the right underwear. The best option is to wear nude or skin-toned undergarments that match your skin colour. This will help to prevent your undergarments from showing through your linen clothing. Another option is to wear a slip or camisole underneath your linen dress or top. This will not only prevent the fabric from being see-through but will also give you an extra layer of coverage and comfort. You can also look for linen and linen-blend clothes that are already lined, which will further increase the opacity of the fabric.
There are no hard and fast rules for wearing linen, as it is a versatile fabric that can be worn in various settings and for different occasions. However, some general guidelines can help you look your best when wearing linen or a linen-blend.
We love a crisp, clean look which can take you from day to night and linen is the perfect material that serves a classy and elegant vibe, not to mention the impression that you just stepped off a yacht in the Mediterranean!
Women’s Linen Dresses. A printed linen-blend dress is something that every woman should have in her wardrobe. They’re easy to wear and look fabulous whether you’re at a garden party, enjoying a staycation, or headed to a more formal occasion like a wedding.
Women’s Linen Trousers. For a timeless outfit, you can’t go wrong with linen trousers! Team with a white t-shirt for a more casual look, or a pretty blouse for dressier events! Finish the outfit with a sandal (heeled or flat!) for a sleek, stylish outfit with that effortless ‘I’ve just thrown this together’ feel!
Women’s Linen Tops. If you want to stay cool in the warmer weather, a linen top is the perfect wardrobe essential to feel light, airy and breezy. Pair yours with jeggings or a skirt, depending on what you have pencilled in your diary.
Women's Linen Skirts. There’s something about a linen skirt that just says ‘put-together’, even when you’ve only had ten minutes to get ready. Floaty, flattering and fab for warmer weather, it’s one of those pieces that works hard without making a fuss. Style it with a lightweight knit or a sleeveless button-up for a smart-casual feel. Add your favourite sandals and you’re good to go - from Sunday lunch to a stroll along the prom. Whether you prefer 100% linen or a breathable linen blend, these garments are a fantastic addition to any wardrobe. With their effortless style and breathability, they are perfect for keeping you cool and comfortable during the warmer months.
At Bonmarché, we offer a range of linen and linen-blend clothing options at affordable prices, without compromising on style. From printed dresses to timeless skirts, we have everything you need to embrace this versatile fabric. So why not add some linen pieces to your wardrobe this season and enjoy the beauty and comfort of this timeless fabric? Shop our collection today and feel fabulous in linen!
