Latest news with #linen
Vogue
3 days ago
- General
- Vogue
How to Wash Linen the Right Way
There's nothing cooler than wearing linen in the summer. That's not hyperbole: Science says that linen truly is the most comfortable fabric to wear in warm temps—even more so than cotton or silk. It makes sense: 'You can usually feel the texture: slightly crisp, cool to the touch,' says Melia Long, executive laundry professional at Poplin. 'It softens beautifully with time and wear.' As breezy as the fabric may be, taking care of your linen dresses, shirts, and matching sets doesn't always feel so effortless. Linen is prone to shrinking, wrinkling, and—because it often comes in white—staining. Why must all good things come with a catch? Not to fear. Below, laundry and fabric care experts share tips for how to wash linen, as well as tricks for preventing shrinkage and removing stains without stress. Let the easy-breezy days of summer—linen dressing—begin. What is linen made of? Linen is a natural fiber that comes from the flax plant, the same plant from which we get flax seeds. Flax has been grown for food and fiber for millenia—archealogists say there's evidence that people were cultivating it at least as far back as 36,000 years ago. 'It's one of the oldest and most sustainable textiles in the world,' explains laundry expert Alicia Sokolowski of AspenClean. 'The flax stalks are harvested, dried, and processed to extract long fibres, which are then spun into yarn and woven into fabric. Linen is natural, biodegradable, and loved for its strength, texture, and ability to wick moisture.' Does linen shrink? Linen can definitely shrink—'especially if it's not pre-washed before the first cleaning or if it's exposed to high heat,' Long says. The good news? Most linen clothing is made from pre-washed linen. Still, it's a good idea to exercise caution, since linen is a natural fiber and all. 'It's best to wash it gently in cool or lukewarm water and avoid high dryer settings to preserve its shape and size,' advises Sokolowski. Can you machine wash linen? Save your dry cleaning budget: Linen can be washed in the machine. 'Linen holds up well in the wash, and most modern linen pieces are machine-washable,' explains Long. 'Just make sure to use a gentle cycle, cold or lukewarm water, and a mild detergent. Over-agitating or using hot water can lead to shrinkage or fraying, especially along seams.' Can you put linen in the dryer? While you could put linen in the dryer, Long says it's 'not ideal if you're trying to preserve the garment long-term.' If you really want to speed up the drying process, however, she recommends using the dryer on low for a few minutes, or 'just enough to loosen up the wrinkles.' From there, you can hang the garment or lay it flat to dry. 'Linen dries quickly, so you don't need much heat to get the job done,' says Long. Is it best to hand wash linen? While it never hurts to be gentle with your favorite linen pieces, Sokolowski says that 'hand-washing your linen isn't necessary.' She advises doing it only for extra delicate or embroidered pieces. If you do decide to go the hand-washing route, use lukewarm water and a mild, natural detergent. 'Avoid wringing to prevent damaging the fibers,' Long adds. Do you ever need to dry clean linen? Most everyday linen items—like your wardrobe essentials, napkins, table cloths, and bedding—don't require dry cleaning. The exception? Tailored pieces featuring complex construction. 'Structured items like linen suits, jackets, or lined dresses may benefit from professional care,' says Long. 'Always check the care labels for guidance.' How to get stains out of linen? The key to getting stains out of linen is to act quickly. 'The sooner you treat the stain, the better,' Sokolowski says. Below, a step-by-step guide to getting stains out of linen:
National Post
7 days ago
- General
- National Post
5 perfect linen pieces for summer
Article content Linen is a summertime staple. Article content Article content The textile, made from fibres from the flax plant, is celebrated for its lightweight feel and breathability. Plus, it's said to dry faster than even cotton, which makes it a perfect pick for the sticky-hot days of the season. Article content Article content Denim gets a lightweight update with the new Linen+ collection form Levi's. The collection features Ecovero material, a wood-sourced fibre material, to help create a fabric innovation that has the look and feel of denim, with the airiness of linen. We love it in these vintage-inspired, relaxed-fit shorts. Article content A short-sleeved linen shirt never goes out of style. This straightforward design from the Japanese brand Uniqlo features an innovative nylon and linen-blend yarn for a wearable, washable spin on linen. Available in sizes XXS to XXL and in a chic selection of shades. Article content Longline, waistcoat-inspired vests are a top trending style for this spring and summer. This vest from Veronica Beard plays into the popularity, while also tapping into a favourite summer textile. Available in sizes zero to 16, the tailored top is made from an Italian stretch linen for a slim fit that's also comfortable. Article content Article content Article content Few styles scream 'summer' quite like a loose-fitting maxi dress. It's elegant, effortless and oh-so airy. This chic design from COS, which features recycled linen made from fabric-cutting waste, balances the roomy, relaxed shape with slender straps and a delicate tie detail at the back. It's the perfect piece for picnics, seaside dinners, garden weddings … the list goes on. Article content Another sweet summer style, this mini skirt has the look of a wrap skirt — without the unpredictability of a wrap style. Featuring a flattering A-line silhouette and a highrise waist, the linen and viscose-blend skirt adds interest thanks to a flutter hem. Pair it with a simple white T-shirt for a perfectly unfussy daytime look. Article content
BBC News
26-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
Lisburn's Hilden Mill: History in need of a future
For decades, a now-derelict mill near Lisburn in County Antrim, employed generations of women and for many Hilden Mill was more than just a workplace – it was a thread that connected families and was a source of shared of those women was Shirley McMichael who found herself working in the laboratories at Hilden Mill in 1967 – she was just 15-years-old."My role was all about testing the colours, finishes and the threads. "I would go up and down the building collecting my thread samples from the dye houses."There was a lot of work done for Marks and Spencer at the time. "The boys in the dye houses would have to match up various threads before I would run tests to make sure the dye wouldn't run, that it was the right finish for the end product, as well as the best finish we could achieve. "If it worked out well, then Marks and Spencer would have bought it."Seeing the thread being dyed on an industrial scale was just fascinating to look at." The site began as a linen bleaching green before being transformed in 1823 by William Barbour, whose father had settled in Lisburn from Scotland four decades Barbour established a water-powered mill at Hilden, which historians say grew into one of the world's largest producers of linen thread. Over time, the Barbour family became a major employer in the area and developed a model village to house and support their workers. This included hundreds of homes, two schools, a community hall, a sports ground and a children's McMichael, who is in her 70s, remembers her time at Hilden Mill fondly and said the history and heritage of the site are well known. "All the women in my family worked there at some point," she said. "My granny was employed there in the early 1900s and often shared stories about her time during the First World War."I remember my mum and granny talking about the Battle of the Somme and the thousands of people killed in it from Northern Ireland, and the way the mill brought a lot of families together to share in their sorrow and support for each other." "My mum and sister worked in the spinning room at the same time I was in the laboratories, and I used to be able to pop in and see them."They used to tease me that I didn't have to work as hard as they did because I would have time between tasks to do a lot of knitting. I'd come home with a new top fashioned and they'd have a laugh at me."But beyond the work, it was the friendships and camaraderie that left a lasting impression."It's where I met so many of my girlfriends growing up," she said."Just last week I bumped into one of my good friends that I used to work with in the labs that I hadn't seen for ages. It was funny and we both started talking about all the happy memories of the mill." The mill has been a listed building since 1989, with several redevelopment proposals put forward since its closure in the site has been subject to vandalism and arson buildings are currently owned by PJK Developments, based in Warwickshire, and they have sought permission to demolish all but two of the buildings on the October, a consultant for the company told BBC News NI that it would not be financially viable to redevelop the site without the developers are hoping that the remaining two buildings could be retained and redeveloped for community use. 'Wound on the local community' Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council have already agreed a motion to protect Hilden Mill's historical and architectural integrity, ensuring that any future development preserves key elements of the site for future councillor Gary Hynds, who was behind the motion, said: "It's very much become somewhat of a wound on the local community – we're talking about a world famous building with so much history behind it."Hopefully this will put pressure on the council and Stormont to take action and put more focus on the future of the site."There are places all over the world that look after their history, which does cost money but we can't allow another site to completely deteriorate into nothing and be forgotten about."He added: "My focus is on ensuring that whatever development does occurs that the history and heritage is very much recognised." In a statement to BBC News NI, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) said that "no consent has been granted for the demolition of Hilden Mill" due to "a presumption against the loss of significant heritage assets".They council said it "remains committed to engaging constructively with the mill's owners to explore sustainable uses that preserve the site's architectural and historical significance."While the council has facilitated meetings with potential developers, no redevelopment proposals have been submitted to date."It said the Historic Environment Division (HED) of the Department for Communities had been "actively involved" in all discussions concerning the site's future. A spokesperson for the Department for Communities said: "There are no proposals currently, but HED will provide advice to the council and seek to ensure proposals retain listed structures, and any new development is appropriate with the Mill's special architectural and historic character."
Vogue Arabia
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue Arabia
20 Trendy Summer Shirts to Wear
Those who know me well know that regardless of the season, there is one garment in particular that I would never give up: shirts. Whether worn in lieu of a jacket or to complete a tailored look in perfect Dandy style, as a cover-up or with simple jeans and sneakers, there will always be a model that suits you. Spotlight - Valentina Valdinoci Spotlight - Vincenzo Grillo Which begs the question, what are the summer shirts to cast an eye on as we head into the summer season? From the elegant ones in soft silk—perfect for chic evening outfits—to the contemporary ones with a bow closure (instead of a classic button) and the ultra light ones in linen, here are the shirts ot set your sights for summer. Linen shirt, practical and lightweight Let's start with the linen shirt, a true summer wardrobe staple. Thanks to its very light and breathable fabric, it's perfect for the city and everyday looks at the office. As for the seaside, we suggest aiming for classic shades such as white and light blue. Spotlight - Francesca Babbi COS Oversized Linen Shirt, AED444 Shirt with ties, an alternative to the blouse This shirt is without a doubt one of the coolest styles for spring summer 2025, dubbed the 'new blouse.' Practical and contemporary, fashionistas wear it to complete looks of all kinds, from morning to evening; whether in classic, plain shades - such as white - or in textures such as Vichy checks or covered in floral embroidery. Spotlight - Valentina Valdinoci Prada Drawstring poplin shirt, AED4,500 Silk shirt, also for evening wear If you're on the hunt for an elegant summer shirt to wear as part of a chic evening outfit, then you can opt for the silk model - or at any rate, one with a satin finish and slouchy lines that emphasise the silhouette and the waist. You can also explore an option with an oversize fit, depending on your style and the occasion. Spotlight - Vincenzo Grillo Toteme Monogram silk twill pajama shirt, AED2,708 Boho shirt, the big comeback Romantic and fluttering boho-style shirts (or blouses) are making a comeback, as spotted during Chloé's latest fashion shows. Known for their soft and bright shades, elegant details, light and refined fabric; this style of shirt is perfect for the spring/summer season - to be worn even with simple jeans. Getty Photo: Chloé via Net-A-Porter CHLOÉ Ruffled silk blouse, AED5,580 Short-sleeved shirt, even at the beach Last but not least, we have the short-sleeved shirt, a model that is often underestimated but that, especially in the summer time, definitely deserves our attention. This option is quintessentially practical and light, perfect even on those days where the heat puts you to the test. This model works best in a soft and oversized cut, enabling you to wear it to the beach, as a cover-up - combined with a pair of shorts - or directly with a bathing suit and sarong.
Daily Mail
16-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mail
I'm a style editor - here's how I've curated the perfect summer capsule wardrobe from the high street
Each year, just before the start of summer, I get lots of friends asking advice on how to dress for the rising temperatures. What jackets can they wear with long dresses? Can they wear socks with sandals? Are strappy tops appropriate for work? Sartorially speaking, it appears summer in the UK is one of the hardest seasons for people to get their heads around. I've learnt that the easiest route to great summer styling is to keep it simple: don't overcomplicate things by having too many options or by buying things with fussy silhouettes or patterns. Instead, I gravitate towards a capsule wardrobe in summer months, which makes getting dressed in the mornings simple. A capsule wardrobe is a thoughtfully curated collection of flattering, versatile pieces that make getting dressed feel effortless. Instead of buying into statement trends that tend to date quickly, it's about embracing pieces that last and embracing a 'quality over quantity' mindset. When creating my everyday summer capsule wardrobe, I look for lighter fabrics in neutral colours that are comfortable and easy to mix and match. I also like to look for pieces that are well-made so that I can bring them out again year after year. Read on to see the essential pieces that you need to make a capsule wardrobe of your own. The linen dress Next dress £60 Shop As the weather gets warmer, I opt for lighter, natural materials that are breathable and help keep me cool. A midi style in a timeless neutral shade (like the Next dress above) is a great option. This style can be dressed up with heels and a clutch bag for an evening event, but also looks great with a light blazer for the office. The boxy tee H&M t-shirt £27.99 Shop A crisp boxy t-shirt is an absolute must for any capsule wardrobe. They match with all colours and look great with everything (from midi skirts to jeans and even under strappy dresses). For a chic look, avoid fitted or cropped styles, as well as outdated cap sleeves. The boyfriend shirt & Other Stories shirt £77 Shop The perfect layer for cooler summer days, an oversized poplin shirt always looks great. It also doubles up as a glam poolside coverup for any holidays you might have coming up. The updated flip flop sandal Mango sandals Thanks to luxury label The Row, thong sandals are currently having a resurgence. Of course, we're not talking about the thin-soled, plastic variety. This season, it's all about thick straps and luxe leather. These will take you from the office to the beach - and everywhere in-between. The straw bag Fatface bag £45 Shop When summer arrives, I rely on big bags within which I can carry around all my essentials. I can't go anywhere without suncream, an XL water bottle and sunnies, which all take up a lot of room. Instead of picking up a tired-looking tote, invest in a slouchy straw bag. Not only are they roomy, but they'll never go out of style. The waistcoat Tu waistcoat £26 Shop They look just as smart paired with matching suit trousers as they do with jeans. Look for waistcoat styles with a round neck and longline silhouette. The chunky earring Asos earrings No matter how neutral the rest of your outfit, a statement pair of chunky gold earrings always make an outfit look put together. These Asos earrings are lightweight (meaning they won't make your ears hurt) and are a steal at £8. The denim shorts John Lewis shorts £39 Shop Long denim jorts are all over the high street this season, and there's a reason why! They're much breezier than their longer-legged counterparts, yet are still appropriate to wear for everyday. Pair them with a crisp white shirt and leather mules and you could even get away with wearing them to more relaxed offices. To get more of what you love from your favourite Sunday supplement, follow us on Instagram (@youmagazine), Facebook (YOU Magazine) and X (@YOUMagSocial).
