An Irrational Element

 Household Materials | Linen Jacquard & Linen

In Household Materials An Irrational Element features materials that are inextricably connected to the An Irrational Element story. Ranging from fabrics to utilities that are used during the process of creation. This installment focuses on multiple linen fabrics that have been used throughout multiple collections for the past few years.

When first introducing a linen jacquard fabric was during a autumn / winter collection and it felt like a slightly odd choice. However, the material had quite some weight to so it definitely was worth a shot. The first items in this jacquard were the Vintage Shirt, Knot Jacket & Knot Trouser. In the meantime the Vintage Shirt in linen jacquard has become a true An Irrational Element staple that returns each season.

This jacquard weave is a loose weave that allows a wavy and intricate look to garments made from this material. The stages of the jacquard were of interest to me as on first sight it could spark one’s interest, but also the longevity of this material is compelling. Here I am referring to longevity in terms of patina, because how do loosely woven garments hold up over time? In most instances where these items are worn casually it will become inevitable to some threads become looser and the appearance of the item starts to shift. The charm of the jacquard style weave evolves with every wear just like with other more ‘common’ patina items such as denims, sweatshirts, etc.

During the same period the linen waffle fabric was introduced as well. Not only did it pair well with the jacquard in terms of sensibility and hues, it also allowed for a very natural iteration of waffle shirts that are used as base layers. While the linen waffle is nowhere as loose as the linen jacquard, this material did allows for some stretch and showed overall depth in the fabric construction.

The linen waffle has gathered the beneficial qualities of what stand alone linen and waffle materials would have. Although a relatively heavy fabric there is still the dry feel of linen and all the protective qualities it has for the body, whilst the waffle element of this material allows for air to pass through and moisture absorbance.

Both the linen jacquard and waffle have been used for a variety of garments, some more foreseeable and others more experimental. In general both materials have the ability to make classical and newer designs even more interesting through look, feel & texture while being materials that are very close to nature’s essence. This is what made them so appealing for An Irrational Element and why they are continued in future collections.