Linen shirt or cotton shirt?

Surely, many of us face this dilemma. As we approach the warmer months, we become particularly concerned with our thermal comfort. Which shirt material will perform better in the summer? In today’s article, we’ll try to find the answer to this question.

What is linen?

Linen is a completely natural fiber made from the stems of the flax plant. It is believed that this material was used for clothing as far back as 4,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. Later, however, Belfast became the capital of linen production, where it was manufactured in the greatest quantities during the Victorian era.

Linen shirt or cotton shirt – what’s the difference?

Cotton is another completely natural fiber, which grows as a kind of fluff around the seeds of the cotton plant. This fluff is spun into thread, which is then used to produce fabrics, and from those, clothing. The material gained particular popularity during the Industrial Revolution with the rise of cotton spinning mills. Below are some examples of cotton shirts:

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Formal white cufflink shirt

A white shirt with cufflink cuffs, perfect for special occasions. Chic and elegant, it pairs well with both formal and business suits for work. The shirt features a semi-spread collar, with tips that tuck neatly under a jacket’s lapels, creating a cohesive and polished look, along with a smooth placket. Cufflink shirts are a valuable addition to any wardrobe—especially in such a versatile color as white.

Price DKK 899.00

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White dress shirt for bow tie

A shirt for a bow tie with a hidden placket in white, perfect for special occasions. This is the only elegant shirt that fits both a tuxedo and a formal suit, making it an excellent choice for weddings and evening events. The bow tie shirt features a classic Kent collar, cufflink fastenings, and a hidden placket covering the buttons. Its length ensures it stays tucked in at all times. The white color complements any suit and elevates the formality of any outfit. A shirt with a bow tie is the ideal combination for important, elegant occasions. A versatile bow tie shirt is a must-have in your wardrobe!

Price DKK 899.00

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White semi-formal shirt with a spread collar

Our white semi-formal shirt with a spread collar —remarkably versatile and suitable for virtually any occasion. The timeless appeal of a white shirt allows it to pair seamlessly with a formal suit and tie, a sport jacket, or even jeans for a more relaxed yet refined look. This elegant shirt features a classic spread collar that tucks neatly beneath jacket lapels, a clean front placket, and buttoned cuffs, making it a staple of smart, adaptable menswear.

Price DKK 899.00

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Why is a linen shirt better than a cotton shirt in summer?

Linen is a highly breathable material that also has absorbent properties. This means it will keep you cooler for longer while effectively absorbing moisture. As a result, a linen shirt is ideal for summer, as well as for situations where you work or spend time in places without air conditioning.

So, is linen always better than cotton?

So, linen shirt or cotton shirt? Of course, there’s no single definitive answer. We always recommend going with your personal preferences. It also depends on where you’ll be wearing your shirt. A linen shirt, however, is a fantastic choice for all casual occasions—such as family gatherings, walks, or even a regular day at the office. Linen pairs beautifully with many different wardrobe pieces: chinos, jeans, or even bermuda shorts. Since linen only gets better with age and is highly durable, it’s definitely worth investing in a high-quality linen shirt. Linen is also easy to care for—it doesn’t require dry cleaning, and any wrinkles can be smoothed out with a quick ironing of a damp shirt. In addition, it’s more environmentally friendly.

When is a cotton shirt the better choice?

When we look at formal outfits, cotton takes the lead among shirts. Thanks to its consistent texture, it’s an excellent choice for this type of attire. While linen is a fairly wrinkle-prone fabric and may appear less elegant over time, cotton will maintain its form for much longer. That’s why a linen shirt is better suited for other occasions.