Worn

In Worn, author Sofi Thanhauser embarks on a global and historical journey that intricately weaves together the fascinating stories behind five essential fabrics: linen, cotton, silk, synthetics, and wool. With each thread, Thanhauser unravels not only the rich tapestry of textile history but also the profound impact that clothing has had on culture, society, and the environment.

Traveling from the meticulous silk-weaving villages of China to the rugged wool-producing farms of Cumbria, Thanhauser explores the origins and evolution of garment-making. She delves into the lives of the women who, in nineteenth-century New England, painstakingly transformed flax into linen to clothe their families. She also highlights the contemporary experiences of women in South India's cotton-spinning factories, where garment production today remains both a source of livelihood and a rite of passage.

Through these vivid stories, Worn sheds light on the often-overlooked history and significance of textiles. Each chapter offers a unique glimpse into the craft, labour, and industry that underpin the clothes we wear daily. Thanhauser's compelling narrative underscores the intricate connections between global fashion and the social, economic, and environmental issues that we face.

The book goes beyond simple care labels, inviting readers to reconsider the deeper implications of their personal wardrobes. Thanhauser's exploration reveals how the garments we choose reflect our values, our history, and our footprint on the world. Worn is not just an examination of clothing; it is a poignant commentary on human ingenuity and the threads that bind our past, present, and future.

With eloquence and insight, Worn is a must-read for anyone interested in fashion, history, or sustainable living. It offers a resonant reminder of the stories woven into the fabrics we often take for granted and encourages us to think critically about our relationship with one of our most intimate and essential possessions.