The World of Woolmark Lane Crawford collaborates with The Woolmark Company on two worldwide exclusive collections
Words by Harriet Quick
In the debate on sustainability, materials are at the forefront. Put simply, the vast majority of mass produced synthetic fabrics do not biodegrade leaving vast mountains of indestructible matter on planet earth. Designers and fabric manufacturers are developing new environmentally friendly materials from sources as strange as orange peel, as well as refining and re-inventing the benefits of existing favourites.
Lane Crawford is partnering with The Woolmark Company (a business that offers certification and promote high quality wools) to create two worldwide exclusive athleisure collections that shine the light on the wonders of merino wool. There is a lot to admire - it’s kind to the skin, environmentally sustainable and suits both hot and cold climates.
The Merino Journey
The magic starts with Merino sheep - a breed that is commonly reared in Australia. Amazingly, there are over 37 million sheep in the country compared to a human population of only 24 million and in 2016/17produced 339 million kilograms of wool. Fresh air, sunlight and good grazing make for a healthy animal and a beautiful fleece of short, fine, resilient hair.
The yarn’s qualities translate to fine and ultra-fine knitwear that is durable, light and breathable. From a fashion view, the benefits are manifold. Merino drapes elegantly, does not ‘pill,’ takes dyes well and has a natural ‘spring-back-into-shape’ elasticity. It also provides protection against both the heat and cold, making them perfect for trans-seasonal dressing.
Why We Love Merino Wool
Breathable
Merino wool has a large capacity to absorb moisture vapour and sweat next to the skin.
Multi-climatic
Merino wool is active, reacting to changes in one’s body temperature to keep the wearer warm when it’s cold yet releasing heat and moisture when it’s hot.
Elastic
The natural elasticity and crimp of the Merino fibre means there is less chance of a garment sagging or losing its shape.
Static resistant
Merino wool’s moisture absorption qualities prevent the build up of static electricity. It is less likely to cling and will pick up less dust than other fabrics.
Fire resistant
A fabric made entirely of wool doesn’t readily catch fire. It burns slowly and self- extinguishes when the source of the flame is removed.
Stain resistant
Merino fibres have a natural protective layer, which helps prevent stains from being absorbed.
UV protection
Merino wool has a naturally high UV protection.
Machine washable
Recent innovations mean many Merino wool garments can now be machine-washed and tumble dried.
Odour reducing
Merino wool fibres remove and lock in the odour molecules from sweat, which are then removed on washing.
Handle and drape
Australian Merino wool has excellent drape due to the fineness of the fibres, elasticity and resilience.
Colour
When dyed, a Merino wool garment is colourfast as the dye penetrates through to the core of the fibre and does not fade with washing.
Fashionable
Australian Merino wool comes in an abundance of textures, structures, weaves and weights. It is adaptable, flexible and tailors easily.
The Woolmark Prize
To advance innovation, the prestigious International Woolmark Prize was set up in 1953. This year Uruguay born, New York dwelling Gabriella Hearst won the women’s wear prize working with a soft velvet like fine merino wool and British brand Cottweiler picked up the menswear award with its smart mix of tailoring and sportswear using wool blends.
How to Love Merino Wool
Merino wool will love your skin, repel moisture and be a good friend for a very long time but remember that sheep’s fleece needs your tender care.
Follow the care labelling and remember to separate lights from darks and always wash garments inside out.
Dry away from direct sunlight and heat.
After a day of wearing, give your sweater a break and rest it for 24 hours so the fibres can spring back into shape.
To freshen up and dispel odours – wrap you garment in a towel for an hour.
Press with a steam iron and through a linen cloth when slightly damp.
For stains, have surgical spirit, rubbing alcohol, lint and white vinegar in the kitchen cupboard as this will remove everything from black coffee, to grass and lipstick marks.