You have decided to introduce linen into your wardrobe? A linen beach dress or a linen midi shirt dress? Great! It is a beautiful warm weather staple. Before keying in your credit card details, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you get the best garment for your hard earned money.

Composition - not every linen garment is made of pure linen. It can be blended with cotton, polyester, viscose, and other fibers. Certain combinations can deliver additional benefits, however, it can also take away from the naturalness of the linen. Remember to always check the care label inside the garment.

Weight - linen comes in various weights and thicknesses, each with its own characteristics and suitable applications. Lighter and thinner linen is more suitable for making blouses and shirts while medium weight offers more substance and durability, which is great for dresses, trousers and shorts.

Place of origin - flax is grown all over the world, however, European flax is considered the best in the market, as it is grown in unique climate conditions - a natural damp climate and in mineral rich soil.

Certification - chemicals used to produce fabrics can be harmful to your health and can cause cancer or infertility. How can you protect yourself? Look for the reputable certifications. At ANSE we are proud to use only STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® approved linen. STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX ® is one of the world's best-known labels for textiles tested for harmful substances. It stands for customer confidence and high product safety.

Softness of the fabric - this is a less talked about topic, but linens have different finishes. Stonewashed linen is soft, hangs beautifully and has a charming fade effect. Washed linen simply means that the item has been pre-washed and is less prone to shrinkage. If the linen has no finish, be mindful that it can shrink considerably.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing linen clothes that best suit your style, comfort, and lifestyle preferences.