Fabrics of the Future: Linen and Ramie

Linen
Linen is one of the oldest cultivated plants in human history. Its use dates back to prehistoric times, making linen fibers the oldest known natural textile fibers. In the past, linen clothing was a privilege mainly reserved for the upper classes.

Today, linen is regaining popularity due to its exceptional qualities and wide range of applications. The plant is naturally resistant to weather, pests, and disease, requiring no intensive chemical treatment. It is fully biodegradable, and linen fiber is considered one of the most eco‑friendly of all textile fibers.

Why is linen so special?

• Naturally regulates body temperature

• Promotes a healthy lifestyle

• Gentle massaging effect stimulates circulation and relaxes the body

• Naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial

• Extremely breathable, efficiently wicks away moisture, and reduces perspiration

• Less prone to dirt and unpleasant odors

• Highly durable

• Becomes softer and more pleasant to the touch with every wash

• Combines elegance with comfort

• Its signature creased look gives the fabric a soft, relaxed appearance

• Breathability and dryness help reduce the risk of bedsores

Why does linen wrinkle?
Linen fibers are naturally stiff and have very little elasticity. When the fabric bends (for example, while sitting), the fibers don’t “spring back” like wool or synthetic materials—so creases remain. However, the natural creasing of high‑quality linen has its charm, giving a relaxed, effortless look. It is, however, less suitable for highly formal occasions.

Naturally antibacterial and antistatic
Linen does not attract dust or generate static electricity, making it ideal for allergy sufferers and sensitive skin. These qualities also make it a popular choice for bedding, children’s clothing, and underwear.

Linen breathes with its environment
Linen fabric regulates body temperature and can absorb up to 20–25% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp. It absorbs quickly and dries fast.

Linen blends

• With cotton: softer to the touch and less prone to wrinkling

• With viscose: smoother, more pleasant feel, significantly reduced creasing

• With polyester: least prone to wrinkling but loses some of its natural breathability and appearance

Different linen finishes

• Stonewashed: treated with enzymes or stones for a softer feel, more textured look, and intentional, aesthetically pleasing creasing

• Coated linen: invisible coating for easier maintenance; reduces wrinkling but is rarer and often more expensive

Masters of Linen
Linen from France, Belgium, and the Netherlands is considered the finest in the world, thanks to the climate and centuries‑old tradition. European linen often carries the “Masters of Linen” label, guaranteeing origin and quality (100% European cultivation and processing).

Sustainability
Every part of the flax plant can be used: fibers for textiles, seeds for linseed oil and food, and by‑products for paper, insulation, and composites. Linen is one of the few fibers that becomes softer with every use. Frequent wear and washing do not damage it; instead, they improve comfort without reducing durability.

   

All items in the photos are by Liviana Conti and available at Emporium.si.

Ramie
Ramie is a natural cellulose fiber extracted from the inner bark of the ramie plant, a relative of the nettle. Often referred to as “China grass,” it is naturally resistant to mold and bacteria. Ramie is lighter and shinier than linen, with a stiffer feel. Its greatest advantage is its exceptional strength—it is one of the strongest plant fibers, even stronger than linen.

Like linen, ramie wrinkles easily and has no elasticity, so it is often blended with cotton, wool, or viscose to add softness. Due to its sheen, ramie is also used for garments that combine a natural look with a slightly more luxurious feel, as well as for decorative fabrics and even paper.

Linen vs. Ramie
Linen is more everyday, natural, comfortable, and dependable, while ramie is stronger, shinier, and a slightly more distinctive choice—often found in blends.

Both materials are excellent for those who appreciate natural fibers, sustainability, and the beauty that comes from authentic texture and character.