• Crisp linen shirtbeach bride and groom white dress linen shirt image by Paul Retherford from Fotolia.com
  
  Linen is a popular material choice for shirts. Men, women and children wear this versatile fabric, which is most commonly used for warm weather shirt designs. While linen has many benefits, there is a downside to this natural fabric. Learn about the pros and cons of linen shirts.
  
  

Pro: Linen is Natural

• Linen is made from the fibers of the flax plant. Since it is made from a natural, renewable resource, wearing linen clothing is good for the environment. It doesn't trigger allergies, making a particularly good choice for those who react to dyes or other synthetic materials.
  
  

Con: Linen is Expensive

• Since linen is made by hand, linen shirts can be pricey. Linen was once considered a material suitable for royals, hence the term "fine linens." Flax plants can be temperamental, and the stalks must be hand-picked to retrieve the fibers, which must then be separated. Linen shirts must be woven and stitched together, resulting in a costly and complicated manufacturing process, which is often passed down to the customer.
  
  

Pro: Linen is Lightweight

• Linen is a popular choice for warm weather climates because it is a lightweight fabric and is particularly absorbent, wicking moisture away from sweaty skin. It is also a fabric that feels soft against the skin and only becomes more so as it ages. Linen is typically lint-free.
  
  

Con: Linen Creases

• One of the most common complaints about linen is that it wrinkles so easily. Creases occur with normal wear and it doesn't travel very well. Some linen shirts can be ironed to remedy this problem, while others might require dry cleaning. Always check the manufacturer's instructions.
  
  

Pro: Linen is Durable

• Linen tablecloths and napkins become family heirlooms that are passed down for generations, so imagine how durable a linen shirt can be. This fabric is moth resistant and repels dirt. Linen fibers are two to three times stronger than cotton!
  
  

Con: Linen Wears

• Even though linen is durable, it isn't an elastic fabric. Your linen shirt can become loose overtime. It also has a tendency to wear at points of friction, such as the collar or hems.