Fabric and care: what the label actually tells you

Composition is the most honest thing about a garment — it says more about durability and comfort than any photo. You will find it under Details on every product, together with fabric weight and care.

Natural fibres

• Cotton — breathes, takes a 40°C wash, shrinks on the first one (good boutiques quote measurements after washing).
• Linen — coolest in summer, creases, and that is not a fault; iron it slightly damp.
• Wool, merino — warm for its weight, hates spinning and heat. Airing it out usually beats washing.
• Silk — hand wash cold, dry flat, away from sunlight.

Man-made fibres and blends

• Viscose (modal, lyocell) — soft and cool, but weak when wet; wash at 30°C.
• Polyester — durable and quick-drying, breathes less; 5–10% in cotton helps a garment hold its shape.
• Elastane — from 2% it gives stretch. If you want a piece that gives, look for it in the composition.

Fabric weight tells you the thickness

Weight (gsm) is what a square metre of the fabric weighs. For a T-shirt, 140 gsm is thin, 180–200 gsm is a solid jersey, above 220 gsm is a heavyweight tee. Boutiques quote it where they know it.

Five habits that make clothes last

• Wash less often and cooler; airing does more than people think.
• Turn garments inside out — it protects colour and print.
• Never dry wool or knitwear on a hanger; dry them flat.
• Close zips before washing so they do not snag everything else.
• A mesh laundry bag costs a few euros and saves your silk and underwear.