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Lino
Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Veneto
The fabric of Italian summer—naturally cooling, effortlessly elegant, and celebrated for its beautiful wrinkles.
Linen has been woven in Italy since Roman times, prized for its cooling properties in Mediterranean heat. Today, Italian linen represents the height of summer elegance. Designers from Brunello Cucinelli to Massimo Alba have made rumpled linen synonymous with la dolce vita style.
Region
Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Veneto
Origin
European flax, processed in Italy
Price Range
€200-€2,000+ for garments
Linen was ancient Rome's most valued textile. The word "linen" shares roots with "line" (measuring cord). Italian Renaissance painters used linen canvas, and Italian sailors relied on linen sails. While production shifted north to Belgium and France, Italian finishing and tailoring kept the tradition alive.
Flax plants are harvested and "retted" (soaked) to loosen fibers. After drying and processing, the long fibers are spun and woven. Italian mills specialize in finishing—softening, dyeing, and treating linen for drape. Garment-dyeing creates the lived-in look prized in Italian fashion.
Who works with linen
Luxury linen knitwear
Garment-dyed linen
Fine linen and blends
Unstructured linen suits
Machine wash warm or cold; linen loves water
Tumble dry low or hang to dry
Iron when damp for crispness, or embrace wrinkles
Wrinkles are part of linen's charm—not a flaw
Gets softer and more comfortable with every wash
Find authentic linen in Italy
Linen is among the most sustainable textiles. Flax requires little water or pesticides. Every part of the plant is used. European linen cultivation and Italian processing have low environmental impact compared to cotton or synthetics.
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