We have all been there sitting ourselves down on top of a bursting suitcase at 2:00 AM, futilely attempting to squeeze into three outfits which we just in case we need one day, yet we all know deep down that we will never ever put them on. It is a typical panic before the trip action. We wish to look easily fashionable as we stroll about in cobblestone streets and we overpack in our anxiety to travel permanently.

Travel light, however, is not about starving yourself but making choices that really work. And in case you desire that overall carefree, nonchalant European summer style, the simplest way of achieving it is through smooth, pure linen.

Yes, linen wrinkles. First, then, let’s get that out of the way. But these wrinkles are its beauty–they confer on it an air of used, comfortable ease which is well adapted to a Mediterranean afternoon. This is why linen should be in your suitcase, and how to use it to make a simple and versatile wardrobe.

Why Linen Belongs in Your Suitcase

You must have been to Rome or Athens in August, and then you know how synthetic clothes soon become a sauna unto themselves. Linen, however, is so breathable. The flax fibers are natural and allow it to be blown outside and also evaporation to cool your body even during the hot humid days.

It is also lightweight, in addition to keeping you cool. Even a few pieces of linen will occupy hardly any space in your bag, but with their careless, dressed up appearance, they can be effortlessly carried out on an effortless morning stroll and changed into a sit-down dinner.

It turns out to be a very sustainable option as well. Flax is a strong crop that needs minimal or no water or pesticides to flourish as compared to cotton. By investing in good linen, you are investing in the durable items that just become warmer and more comfortable with each washing.

Setting Up Your Capsule

A great travel wardrobe isn’t about volume; it’s about choosing pieces that can be styled in multiple ways. You can easily get through a two-week trip with just four or five core items if you choose them wisely.

First, grab a slightly oversized linen button-down. It might be the most useful thing you pack. You can throw it over a swimsuit at the beach, wear it open over a tank top, or tuck it into trousers for a museum visit. Next, add a pair of wide-leg linen pants. They feel as comfortable as pajamas but look incredibly elegant when paired with a simple leather sandal.

A typical linen slip dress is ideal to go out to eat. You may even dress it down in the daytime, then over it in the evening, when the wind turns cold, buy a structured linen blazer.

In order to mix and match easily, use a palette of neutrals, crisp whites, unbleached tans, warm beige, and dark navy. Once all tops fit all bottoms then you can have dozens of outfits without having to carry a huge suitcase.

Dealing with Wrinkles and Care on the Road

When you carefully fold linen, it will form a crease. The trick is to roll clothes, rather than folding them, and it will distribute the fabric and save your space.

As soon as you arrive at your accommodation, you need not worry searching an iron. All you need to do is hang your pieces of linen in the bathroom as you take a hot shower. Most of the heavy creases will be relaxed by the steam naturally.

Linen is extremely easy to carry to the laundry should you need to refresh a piece at some point during the trip. All one has to do is to hand-wash it in a sink of cold water and a splash of mild soap, squeeze out all excess water carefully (but never wring), and hang to dry. Due to its breathability, the fabric will generally be completely dry, and prepared to wear the following morning.

Choosing Pieces that Last

Assembling a travel wardrobe that keeps you comfortable and unweighed down is a matter of narrowing down to what is necessary. In his or her travels, this season, rather than packing a lot, think about taking a step back and rediscovering the beauty of a few simple, long-lasting clothes.

When you need items that will truly work across more than one outing, it is worth seeking out those brands that put an emphasis on quality rather than on the fast-fashion pace. In the case of Lithuania, its history of flax farming and linen weaving is centuries-old. This is where a brand such as SonFre comes in. They are intent on making the most minimal, made-to-order linen clothing which means an emphasis on the durability and classic design, which provided you with a adaptable way of dressing that looks good, travels well, and keeps the planet in mind.