COS Collections: men's summer linen
An edit of wardrobe foundations – renewed with the ease of linen.
COS COLLECTIONS: MEN'S SUMMER LINEN
Naturally breathable and versatile, linen has endless summer appeal whatever the occasion. This season, each look is lightweight in construction, ensuring comfort throughout the day, while many pieces have a smart sensibility that works equally well for evening.
Tailoring is a key focus, with shirting and unstructured suits renewed with the ease of linen. Sophisticated separates can be styled together or pared back with everyday essentials – from a classic tank top to simple cotton trousers. Discover an edit that showcases linen’s key role in the summer wardrobe.
RELAXED LINEN SUITS
The linen suit is the answer to sophisticated yet relaxed summer dressing. This year, tailored trousers and jackets have a smarter sensibility that’s ideal for summer workwear, weddings and events. Minimal detail and unstructured design keep the focus on wearability, lending a sense of ease.
HOW TO STYLE MEN'S LINEN SUITS
A linen suit has a laid-back feel, so styling with a crisp tailored shirt is a simple way of ensuring your outfit remains put together. When it comes to footwear, loafers are a classic option that lends polish, while leather fisherman sandals feel fresh for summer.
BREATHABLE LINEN SHIRTS
The men’s linen shirt is an emblematic piece of the COS wardrobe, balancing the laid-back feel of summer with the smartness of shirting. Grandad and open collars cater to a variety of moods.
HOW TO STYLE MEN'S LINEN SHIRTS
Styling a collarless shirt with classic trousers and a linen blazer offers a more relaxed take on the traditional suit. Layer looser shirts over a T-shirt or vest for a lesson in daytime ease.
VERSATILE LINEN TROUSERS
The collection balances refinement and comfort, with trousers informed by timeless codes of tailoring, designed with minimal details and a classic tapered leg. Cropped trousers offer a casual option.
HOW TO STYLE MEN'S LINEN TROUSERS
From a beige chino to a cropped pant, men’s linen trousers are a staple of summer that allow for plenty of styling options. Style monochrome separates for a polished approach or layer a shirt over summer basics for a more casual take in the city and beyond.
FAQ
Q
What is linen made from?
A
Linen is made using the fibres of the flax plant, which are spun into threads to produce the light, airy fabric. At COS, our collection features European Flax™ and recycled linen. European Flax™ linen is a vegetable fibre grown in Western Europe without the use of irrigation, other than in exceptional circumstances, or genetically modified seeds. It is produced using a process known as dew retting, a low-intensive process which uses natural exposure to sun, wind and rain, followed by an entirely mechanical, zero-waste process to extract the fibres. Recycled linen is made from yarn-spinning waste or fabric-cutting leftovers from the production process. The waste is collected, then recycled and spun into new yarn.
Q
How do you wash linen?
A
Like many fabrics, linen needs washing less than you’d expect. Hang it up to ventilate between wears and, when washing is required, machine wash with a low spin at 30°C. High temperatures can weaken the fibres and affect dyes. When hand washing, rinse with lukewarm water.
Q
Can you tumble dry linen?
A
You can tumble dry linen if the care label allows, but it’s generally not recommended due to the risk of shrinkage and damage. Instead, air dry the fabric, avoiding direct sunlight.
Q
Does linen shrink?
A
Yes, linen can shrink when exposed to high heats during washing or drying so it’s preferable to air dry linen.
Q
Can you iron linen?
A
It’s best to iron linen while it’s slightly damp, otherwise hang your clothes in the bathroom while taking a hot shower and use the steam to reduce creases.
Q
How to care for linen shirts?
A
After washing, hang your linen up to air dry. Keep in mind some creasing is part of the look and charm of linen.
Q
Is linen good for summer?
A
Naturally breathable and lightweight, linen is designed for the heat and humidity of summer. The flax fibres are moisture-wicking and dry quickly. Due to its strong characteristics, linen will withstand frequent wear and washing.