Made-in-France linen shone at the Paris Men’s Fashion Week SS26

A year ago, nss already reported that the whole world wears linen, and France grows it. Something that again this year, fashion and the industry that presents and sells it confirm, as evidenced by the very recent Paris Men’s Fashion Week SS26. Last week, Chinese designer Ziggy Chen, based in Shanghai, indeed showcased in the French capital a fresh, soft, and light collection, but above all made-in-France and sustainable. With his past as a textile design professor and endowed with an ecological awareness still lacking in some of his colleagues, Chen presented pieces made from plant fibers such as linen or hemp, all entirely sourced in France. 

If made-in-China still makes up a (too) large part of the textile industry fueling fashion, France continues to establish itself as a major supplier of fabric internationally, especially regarding fabrics made from plant-based fibers. Years pass, things change, but France maintains its position as the world’s leading linen producer, with no less than 75% of global production taking place in the hexagon, which accounts for 87% of production areas. And the French sector players intend not to stop there, aiming for 1% of the global textile market share in the near future, against 0.4% currently. 

The whole world, especially China, is snapping up linen made in France, and for a good reason. Besides its lightness and refreshing qualities, which are particularly welcome during this intense heatwave, linen is also synonymous with prestige and know-how. The fibers are difficult to weave due to their irregular texture, which risks breaking the machine needles, and also require long and complicated dyeing techniques. However, Ziggy Chen does not seem scared nor willing to throw in the towel, with his creations composed mostly of traditional cotton, pure or blended with silk. While Paris showcases fashion and makes it shine, whether French or Chinese fashion, it is above all the distant lands of the hexagon and their productions that deserve a bit more spotlight.