How to iron a white linen shirt: the Bourrienne guide

Linen is a noble, living fabric whose fibers tell an ancient and natural story. It embodies the nonchalant elegance so dear to Bourrienne Paris X: the purity of white, a crisp drape, the beauty of irregularity. But while linen loves freedom, it also requires a certain rigor in its care—especially when ironing. Here is our step-by-step method to restore your white linen shirt to its full splendor, without creases or mishaps.

Why flax deserves special attention

Linen, the quintessential plant-based fabric, is distinguished by its lightness, breathability, and… its tendency to wrinkle with the slightest movement. This is the price to pay for its unparalleled freshness. Proper ironing doesn't aim to smooth everything out, but rather to structure the garment, highlighting its natural lines.

Caring for a white linen shirt helps prolong its vibrancy through the seasons and preserves its shape. This requires the right technique, a little patience, and the right tools.

Preparing your linen shirt for ironing

Before drawing the sword, a few precautions are necessary.

• Dry carefully : ideally, hang the shirt to air dry while still damp. Avoid using a tumble dryer: it damages the fibers and accentuates wrinkles.

• Lightly dampen : if the fabric is dry, spray it with a little water to relax the fibers. You can also place it in a humid bathroom for a few minutes.

• Choosing the right iron : opt for a steam iron with a clean, smooth soleplate, free of limescale residue. A stable ironing board with a clean cover is also essential.

Steps to perfect ironing

We recommend ironing the shirt in this precise order: collar, cuffs, sleeves, back, then the front. Work flat, without rushing.

The pass

Start by ironing the inside of the collar , then the outside. Gently pull on the edges to reshape it. Avoid embroidered areas if your garment has any.

The wrists

Open the cuffs and lay them flat. Iron from the inside out , avoiding the buttons. The cuff should regain its shape without stiffness.

The sleeves

This is often the trickiest part. Fold the sleeve in half, seam to seam, and iron from the wrist to the shoulder. To avoid creases, don't stay still and avoid lingering too long in the same spot.

The back and the front

Start with one half of the back, then the other, then both fronts. Use steam to smooth out the most stubborn areas. Use broad, continuous movements.

Tips to preserve the brightness of your white shirt

• Use a damp cloth : this damp cloth placed between the iron and the shirt protects the linen fiber and prevents shine.

• A touch of starch can be applied for extra hold, but keep it light so as not to stiffen the fabric.

• Hang the shirt immediately on a hanger after ironing, in a dry and well-ventilated place. This will help it retain its freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should I use to iron a linen shirt?

Linen can withstand high temperatures: between 200°C and 230°C , depending on the fabric thickness. Always check the care label.

Can you iron a dry linen shirt?

This is not recommended. Slightly damp linen is much easier to iron, without having to press too hard on the iron.

How to avoid creases when ironing a linen shirt?

Work along the seams and lines of the garment. Avoid pressing too hard, and move the iron smoothly. Sleeves can be ironed on a mini ironing sleeve if you have one.

In conclusion

Ironing a white linen shirt is the art of combining precision and gentleness. At Bourrienne Paris X, each shirt is designed to stand the test of time with style—but it still needs the care it deserves. This care ritual then becomes a style statement, as essential as a cufflink or a well-defined trouser crease.