Linen: Pros & Cons
Certainly, there is no question that linen proves to be an excellent choice for summer attire!
It's highly recommended for a reason and has experienced a significant resurgence in men's fashion over the last few years. Its exceptional breathability is particularly advantageous in Australia. The textured appearance adds visual interest, making it a suitable companion for fabrics like seersucker in warm weather. The list of virtues and benefits could be extensive, and I'll explore that further in a subsequent post.
Yet, it may not be universally appealing. While it suits 95% of individuals, it might not be everyone's preference. So, when might you opt against wearing linen? And, is linen the optimal fabric choice for you?
Two intertwined reasons to avoid linen are a need for formality and a distaste for creasing. In a significant business meeting, appearing in a wrinkled suit may convey an unkempt image, unless, of course, you happen to be the boss.
Similarly, if you're meticulous about maintaining a clean, polished appearance, linen's tendency to wrinkle might be bothersome. While it inherently exudes a casual vibe, some individuals may need to adapt to this characteristic.
The distinctive texture of linen can be a matter of personal preference. Typically crafted in a plain weave, it presents a striking character. However, if you lean towards smoother finishes, you might not appreciate this particular texture.
For those resonating with these reasons, exploring smarter summer alternatives like high twists (Minnis Fresco, Standeven Explorer, Fox Air, etc.), open weave worsteds, gabardines, and mohairs could be worthwhile.
Another factor to be mindful of with linen, which is also applicable to cotton, is the gradual fading of the fabric's color dye over time. If you encounter shrinkage, a common occurrence with both fabrics, and need to let out sleeves or hems, you may notice a distinct line of fade where the fabric was adjusted.
Wrinkling: Linen is prone to wrinkling and creasing easily. This can lead to a more casual and rumpled appearance, which may not be suitable for formal or professional settings where a polished look is essential.
Formality: Linen suits are inherently less formal compared to wool or other structured fabrics. If you have a formal event or business meeting where a polished, crisp look is expected, linen may not be the most appropriate choice.
Texture: The textured appearance of linen may not be appealing to everyone. If you prefer a smoother finish, the coarse texture of linen may feel uncomfortable or unappealing.
Durability: Linen is not as durable as some other fabrics. It tends to wear out more quickly and may develop thin areas or tears over time, especially with frequent use.
Color Fading: Like cotton, linen can experience color fading over time, especially with repeated washing and exposure to sunlight. This can result in a less vibrant appearance over the lifespan of the suit.
Limited Seasonality: While linen suits are excellent for warm weather due to their breathability, they may not be suitable for cooler seasons. The lightweight nature of linen may not provide sufficient warmth in colder temperatures.
Cost: Quality linen can be expensive, and a well-made linen suit may cost more than suits made from other materials. This cost factor may influence some individuals in their decision-making process.
Considering these cons(?), it's essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages based on your preferences, the occasion, and the climate in which you plan to wear the linen suit.
Your appreciation or aversion to the distinctive character of linen can significantly influence your preference for this fabric. It's possible that you either love its unique features or find them so bothersome that you decide to avoid wearing the garment altogether.
You might have observed that this article is relatively brief, and this is not accidental. The brevity is intentional because of my fondness for linen, and despite putting considerable thought into finding reasons to avoid it, the list of drawbacks didn't turn out to be extensive!
