Linen trousers are some of the most popular items here at SoSatsuma Clothing, and we're not surprised. The lightweight, breathable material is among the best for keeping you cool in the warmer months, and they can be dressed up or dressed down for almost any occasion.
The following are some answers to the most commonly-asked questions about linen trousers.
How to style linen trousers
When you're wondering how to style linen trousers, there are a lot of factors to consider, including the occasion at hand, the weather forecast, and your personal style. However, one of the most important things to consider when styling linen trousers is to have a love for the natural features of linen, rather than trying to force it to be something it's not.
For example, linen trousers are known to wrinkle more easily than other fabrics, especially those made with polyester that seem to never catch a crease. This is part of the trade-off of the more breathable fabric, as of course polyester catches the heat. So, styling your linen means embracing the wrinkle factor.
As a favourite for summer, you'll often find linen trousers in bright colours like our colourful linen trousers, as well as in soft neutrals that are perfect for the warmer weather. Aim for one statement piece, whether the trousers or pair with a lightweight top with a feature colour or pattern to catch the eye.
When it comes to accessorising with linen trousers, we love to keep things simple - add some bling with a pair of gold earrings or a simple necklace - try to avoid rings or bracelets with sharp edges that may catch on the fabric of your trousers.
What are the benefits of wearing linen trousers?
Linen trousers are a incredibly comfortable item to add to your wardrobe as they are lightweight and incredibly breathable and therefore perfect for wearing during warm weather - whether it's humid or dry. The natural fibres of the fabric are moisture-wicking technology of the oldest kind, using the natural fibre to keep the skin clear of sweat. The structure of the natural fibre helps with ventilation, as the weave is a structure filled with air pockets, so they let in the breeze.
The lightweight fabric is made to last, and become more comfortable the more you wash and wear your linen trousers, as opposed to fast fashion polyester that begins to disintegrate with every wash.
Why do linen trousers wrinkle easily?
The fabric of your linen trousers will wrinkle easily because there is low elasticity to the natural flax fibres of which the linen is formed. With low elasticity, there's none of that 'bounce-back' that you'd get from clothing with elastane or viscose, instead it will fold rather than bend.
Understanding that wrinkles are a natural part of linen trousers is a stylistic decision as part of your outfit - the type of wrinkles may matter more for more professional occasions. A heavier weave will help to reduce wrinkles and creases, as well as following the care instructions to avoid wrinkling during drying.
There's no such thing as wrinkle-free linen trousers or even wrinkle-resistent linen trousers, though if you have a blend with synthetic materials you can trade the wrinkle factor for the breathability factor. Our advice is to always hang linen trousers after washing rather than folding into a drawer, and use an iron on damp fabric.
What makes linen trousers feel cooler than other summer trousers?
Linen trousers are the height of breathability thanks to the structure of the natural fibres, which is the most effective when the loose weave of the fabric is combined with a loose-fitting wear. Opt for a relaxed fit like our wide leg linen trousers for the ultimate in cool summer style.
Linen trousers also benefit from the lightweight material having a lower thermal mass than denser fabrics. Instead of capturing heat within the weave and then transferring it to you, linen trousers wick the moisture away from the body and don't retain heat of their own.
How do you care for linen trousers?
Linen pants are best cared for when washed in cool water to avoid shrinking, using a gentle detergent - ideally one that is enzyme free. Never use fabric softener with your linen trousers, as these coat material with a layer of chemicals that gives a soft-touch feel but will reduce the breathability of your linen. If your linen trousers feel a bit stiff, don't worry - they will soften with wear and gentle washing, don't try to speed up the process with softeners. Air-dry and hang using trouser hangers as much as possible to avoid crease lines from hanging or folding.
