For most people, linen seems to be a fabric closely associated with summer. Its lightweight and breathable qualities make it a top choice for hot weather. However, as I delved deeper into understanding fabrics, I discovered that linen is not just limited to summer; it can also be a perfect companion in winter.

I realized that there are some misconceptions when it comes to fabric choices. For example, when people think of wool, they usually associate it with a warm winter fabric, but if I mentioned "summer wool," not many would be familiar with the concept. Similarly, with linen, many might think of it as a cool, breathable summer fabric, and perhaps consider linen clothing to be somewhat old-fashioned or mature. But in reality, these are common misunderstandings about linen.

First of all, linen’s natural fibers have excellent temperature-regulating properties. Linen fibers have gaps that change with temperature. For instance, in hot weather, the linen fibers contract, causing the gaps between the fibers to expand. This allows the body’s heat to escape through these gaps. Additionally, linen's strong moisture-wicking ability helps absorb moisture from the skin, keeping it cool. On the other hand, in winter, the linen fibers expand, causing the gaps between them to shrink. This contraction helps trap the body’s heat by reducing airflow and insulating against the cold, providing warmth.

Secondly, linen’s moisture-wicking ability is outstanding, effectively absorbing moisture from the skin and keeping it dry, which is especially important when layering in winter. You might not expect it, but linen is actually one of the best fabrics for base layers, especially on days when you need to stay warm and dry.

Another point is that linen's durability and antibacterial properties make it an ideal choice for winter clothing. Winter often calls for multiple layers, and linen’s flexibility and wrinkle resistance mean it retains its shape well, even after multiple washes. Additionally, its natural antibacterial properties help prevent odors, ensuring you stay fresh during the colder months.

The temperature-regulating properties of linen are evident in how the gaps between its fibers change with temperature. For instance, in hot weather, linen fibers contract, causing the gaps between the fibers to expand. This allows the body’s heat to escape through these gaps. Additionally, linen's strong moisture-wicking ability helps absorb moisture from the skin, keeping it cool. Conversely, in winter, the linen fibers expand, causing the gaps between them to shrink. This helps to block out cold air, maintaining the body’s heat in a closed environment, thus providing warmth.

Finally, considering fashion, I am convinced that linen can absolutely be a part of winter wardrobes. Nowadays, designers are combining linen with other warm fabrics to create stylish yet warm winter pieces. Whether it’s a linen blazer, a linen coat, or a linen scarf, these can add a touch of natural texture and elegance to your winter look.

In recent years, with the decline of fast fashion, we aim to create products with a longer lifecycle. “Sustainable fashion” is undoubtedly a hot topic today. From the purchasing stage, it means buying less but more thoughtfully, and post-purchase, focusing on garment care to extend its lifespan is also key to achieving “sustainable fashion.” Although linen is inherently a very durable fabric (as evidenced by the 3,500-year-old linen-wrapped mummy discovered in Luxor, Egypt), it still requires proper care!

This is a thought-provoking issue. It is evident that large-scale garment production will likely decrease in the future, as this model contradicts the principles of “sustainable fashion.” More and more brands are adopting small-scale production methods. The broader environment provides an opportunity for both brands and consumers to consider how to proceed in a sustainable manner.

As the saying goes, "Linen isn't just for summer; it's for all seasons." Through these insights, I’ve realized that linen is not just a summer-exclusive fabric. With the right pairing and usage, linen can bring warmth and comfort during the cold winter months. Now, I no longer hesitate to wear linen in winter and enjoy the natural beauty it offers.