History of occurrence
The technology of making clothes from boiled wool was invented back in the far Middle Ages by simple peasants living at the foot of the mountain peaks of Austria. The coarse dark green fabric made of sheep wool had amazing waterproof properties and warmed perfectly in cold weather. In Russia, such a fabric has been known since the second half of the XIX century, almost immediately with the appearance on the market, gaining wide popularity among fashionistas.
Nowadays, boiled wool, or as it is also called, loden, is used to make coats, jackets, hats and scarves, as well as skirts. Some designers even offer trouser suits in their fall-winter collections, as well as various accessories from this material.
Features and Benefits
This fabric is unique primarily for its environmental qualities, it perfectly retains heat and is quite durable at the same time: thanks to manufacturing technology, boiled wool clothing is very durable and does not crumble when worn. In addition, such a fabric practically does not crease, and in order to smooth out any irregularities, it is enough to let the product hang in a cabinet on a hanger, and it will smooth out on its own.
The fabric acquires all these properties as a result of a rather time-consuming production process, which has changed little since the Middle Ages: first, the stiff sheep’s wool is spun, then boiled in water with liquor, as a result of which the fibers are compressed and shrink.
All this gives the coat strength and water resistance, but it does not burden it. Then the resulting canvas is painted, combed out, decorated with various patterns and then dried.
Models
The styles and shapes of the boiled wool coat are extremely diverse.The most classic version: the length is just below the knee, with several large buttons in the middle - this style is practical and versatile, but it is not without elegance and chic.
Another popular option is the British trench coat. The history of the design of this style has more than a hundred years. The coat is made in classic strict forms and is complemented by patch pockets and a wide belt. Such a product is best suited to slim tall girls, and if there is a massive buckle in the belt, then it will successfully emphasize the magnificent chest. A British trench coat will be a great addition to both a dress and tight pants.
The overcoat is a style that goes back to the military fashion of the 19th century and has been loved by fashionistas all over the world for the past few years. A rather modest option, which is suitable for any figure, as it conceals the existing flaws and emphasizes the advantages. It combines very well with shoes with high and medium heels.
From year to year, a popular option is a medium-length short coat insulated with fur. Such a product perfectly protects in crackling frosts and retains heat. In this case, the fur can frame both the hem of the coat and the collar. There are also options where the fur goes separately in the form of a cape.
Today, a coat of boiled wool without lining is very popular. This rather non-standard and fresh tailoring solution is currently offered in various versions by designers around the world, as it goes well with almost any clothing - both classic skinny pipe trousers and youthful ripped jeans will look equally appropriate under it.
When to wear?
A coat of boiled wool is relevant in any season, since there are models that are suitable for a walk on a cool summer day or in severe winter frosts. Do not be afraid to get in such a coat in the rain! Thanks to the loden production technology described above, the fabric does not absorb moisture and dries quickly.
Some fashionistas specially get themselves short, below the knee coats of boiled wool for trips to cars in the winter. This option is good in that the lightweight fabric does not hinder movements, allowing you to feel comfortable and freely behind the wheel.
How to wash a boiled wool coat?
In general, Loden coat is surprisingly durable. They will serve their owner more than one season, without losing their original appearance, if you follow a few simple rules for caring for the product:
- Hangers hangers must be the size of your coat, so as not to deform it.
- Use special covers for storing clothes.
- When ironing, use only a damp gauze cloth.
- If you are exposed to rain on the street, then dry the product on a hanger away from heat sources.
- Woolen fabric has a tendency to electrify, which means it attracts dust. Use a soft bristle brush to clean. To reduce the electrification, you can use special antistatic agents for wool.
- And finally, wash the coat. If you don’t want to turn to the services of dry cleaning masters, you can remove dust and dirt yourself, not only a special brush, but also a “folk method” using bread crumb will do. It is necessary to spread the coat on a flat surface and sprinkle crumbs of bread on top. Then roll the crumb into small "balls", which will absorb dust, dirt and pile. After this procedure, it is enough to walk with a brush or just with a wet hand on the surface of the coat.
Reviews
Reviews for coats made of boiled wool are mostly positive. Buyers note the warmth, comfort, ease of wearing. Many are simply delighted with material that does not crumple and does not crumble.
True, some are repelled by the complexity of washing the product, which forces customers to give the item dry cleaning, and this is not always convenient and rational, as they believe. In special cases, natural wool fabric is contraindicated for allergies.However, for most fashionistas, such troubles are not a burden, because in the pursuit of elegance, one can close one's eyes to some difficulties, because beauty, as you know, requires sacrifice.