Raymond Linen Fabric Buying Guide: How to Buy the Right Linen Fabric For Every Occasion

There is this one thing that happens every summer.

Someone enters the showroom, runs his/her fingers over a few rolls of fabric, stops by the linen counter and asks, "Isn't everyone raving about linen? Is it really worth it or just another trend?"

Well, it's a good question indeed.

Linen is one of those fabrics that you admire from afar but hesitate to buy. Some fear the fact that it wrinkles easily. Others are not sure about the amount of care that it requires. And then there are some who assume it to be exclusive to expensive designer shirts.

Until they touch linen fabric from Raymond.

Suddenly, the tone of the conversation changes.

From asking whether to buy linen fabric, it turns to questions on colors, quantities, and even office wear possibilities.

Which usually means they have realized something very important.

Good linen fabric does not make an impression in the first thirty seconds. It grows on you. The more you wear it, the more you get its value.

Why Linen Fabric Feels Different Than Other Fabrics?

Let's assume you've been wearing cotton shirts all your life. Your first Raymond linen shirt is going to feel a little unusual for you.

Not because it is going to be uncomfortable.

But because it behaves differently.

It is a natural fabric. It is not as smooth as most cottons, but its uneven texture adds to its charm.

Also, linen fabric breathes very well. That's why it is so loved in India's weather conditions. On hot afternoons, when other fabrics begin to feel sticky, linen fabric will continue to feel extremely light.

What is Raymond Linen Fabric?

One of the misconceptions about linen fabric is that all linen fabrics are the same.

They are not.

Raymond is known for its premium suiting and shirting and its linen collection is no exception. It is not about making attractive colors, it is about a perfect combination of comfort, appearance and durability.

Depending on the collection, you may find pure linen fabric as well as specially designed linen blends. Both have their own uses.

Pure linen fabric has everything that people love about linen.

Linen blends combine the properties of linen with cotton and other fibres to minimize wrinkles, increase softness and to ease the maintenance process.

There is no better or worse here.

The right choice depends on your requirements.

Is Raymond Linen Fabric Worth Buying?

I will answer this question with another question.

When was the last time you bought clothes that were still as good as new after three or four years?

Most people don't replace linen because it gets worn out. They change the color.

This, I believe, is one of the best compliments that the fabric can get.

Good linen fabric becomes the shirt that one wears on busy mornings just because he/she knows what it will feel like and how it will look.

And when a fabric earns its place in one's wardrobe, its price seems much more justified.

What Color Raymond Linen Should You Buy?

One of the biggest mistakes that people make is choosing a color first and then deciding on the usage of the garment.

The shirt that will be worn every day to office does not require the same character as the one intended for a destination wedding.

White, light blue, beige, olive, stone grey and soft pastels go very well for daily office wear. They match seamlessly with chinos, formal pants and dark jeans.

On the other hand, rich shades such as emerald, wine, navy, rust and deep charcoal are much better for festive occasions.

If you are buying your first linen shirt, you should consider white and light blue.

They are classics for a reason.

Should You Go for Pure Linen or Linen Blend?

This is, perhaps, the question that we answer most often.

Pure linen gives you everything that people love about it - its light airy nature, natural texture and elegant look.

Linen blends are usually more practical as far as regular office wear and frequent travel goes. They minimize wrinkles and make ironing easy.

When someone comes into the showroom and requests a shirt for regular weekly wear, I usually suggest checking linen blends first.

When he/she is buying something special for a vacation, a holiday, a celebration or just because he/she has always wanted a good linen shirt, pure linen is unbeatable.

Does Linen Fabric Wrinkle Easily?

Yes.

And that's exactly how it should be.

The presence of gentle wrinkles is one of the things people love about linen fabric.

Those are not the signs of low quality.

Those are the signs of the fabric.

The mistake that most first time buyers make is trying to make the linen behave as if it was polyester.

It won't.

And, to be honest, it shouldn't.

A slightly wrinkled linen shirt usually looks more elegant than the one that is pressed to death.

Is Raymond Linen Suitable for Indian Summer?

Definitely, yes.

If you have spent any afternoon in Indian summer in May or June, you know how important breathable fabrics are.

Linen breathes better than most fabrics, so it helps one stay cool during the whole day.

That's why you can usually see linen shirts at summer weddings, brunches, vacations and business casual parties.

Its comfort becomes even more evident once you wear the garment for several hours.

How Much Fabric Will You Need?

The exact quantity depends on your height and measurements as well as the design you are planning to sew. But here are approximate measurements:

• Men's shirt - 2.25 - 2.5 meters
• Trousers - 1.3 - 1.5 meters
• Kurta - 2.5 - 3 meters depending on the length and style of sleeves

If you are planning to sew such elements as full sleeves, large cuffs or a long kurta, it's better to check it out with your tailor before purchasing the fabric.

Raymonds Linen Fabric vs Cotton Fabric

These two fabrics are usually compared. However, they have somewhat different purposes.

While cotton fabric feels very comfortable since the very first wear, linen fabric takes time to develop its character.

If cotton fabric is the reliable everyday companion, linen fabric is the one that quietly stands out.

Linen Fabric vs Khadi Fabric

Khadi fabric has a handmade, natural and earthy character that is inherent for Indian tradition.

However, linen feels lighter and smoother than khadi and it is much more suitable for contemporary shirts and smart casual wear.

If you are looking for the crisp office shirt, linen is usually a better choice.

If you prefer dressing in a more traditional way, khadi fabric will suit you better.

How to Care For Raymond Linen?

Good news - linen fabric is not as delicate as people think.

Wash it with a gentle cycle or even by hand using mild detergent.

Do not use harsh bleach.

Dry it naturally.

Iron linen fabric when it is slightly wet for the best effect.

With every wash, linen fabric becomes softer and retains its strength, that's why linen fabric lovers remain loyal to it.

How to Identify Original Raymond Linen Fabric?

As linen became more and more popular, imitations of it appeared. Buying the linen from the authorized Raymond dealer or a trusted fabric retailer is the best way to make sure that the fabric you are buying is original.

Original Raymond linen fabric should have excellent weaving and finishing as well as the appropriate brand labels. Besides, a skilled fabric retailer will direct you towards the right collection instead of trying to sell you the most expensive one.

Conclusion

The funny thing about linen fabric is that few people become its lifetime lovers right after they touch it once.

They become its lovers after wearing it for a while.

After wearing it on hot afternoons.

After taking it on holidays.

After realizing that it is the shirt that one automatically reaches for when one wants to look elegant without being overdressed.

That's when linen begins to make sense.

So, is Raymond linen worth buying?

Definitely, if you are looking for the fabric that provides you with comfort, elegance and longevity. Not because it is fashionable.

Not because it is expensive.

Because a few months from now, when you take off your clothes without thinking much, you will automatically put it on.

And in the end, it's the best recommendation that the fabric can get.