Meet Ramie: The Luxe, Breathable Fabric You’re About to Fall in Love With

If you love the natural, breezy look of linen but like a fabric that can hold its shape, allow us to introduce you to fashion’s best-kept secret: Ramie.

While it might sound like a new trend, ramie is actually one of the oldest textile fibers in the world. We’ve used this incredible natural material to craft our brand new Chloe Panel Shirt in White and Navy — a piece designed for women who want effortless style without sacrificing luxury or comfort.

Here is everything you need to know about ramie, why it’s a game-changer for your wardrobe, and how to style it this season.

What is Ramie Fabric?

This material is made from a premium natural fiber harvested from sustainable plant stems, prized for thousands of years for its light, durable weave and subtle, silky sheen. Often referred to in textile history as "China grass," it offers a sustainable, high-performance alternative to traditional summer materials.

Visually, it looks very similar to linen — it has that beautiful, organic slub texture—but it possesses unique strength, luster, and drape qualities that make it stand out on its own.

5 Reasons You’ll Love Ramie

1. Superior Breathability & Moisture-Wicking

Ramie fabric is ultra-lightweight and naturally porous. It allows air to circulate freely around your body, keeping you cool and fresh even on warm, humid days. Plus, like high-grade cotton, it absorbs moisture quickly without feeling damp against your skin.

2. Stronger Than Linen (and Cotton!)

Fun fact: Ramie fibers are actually eight times stronger than cotton and even stronger when wet. This means your garments hold their tailored shape, seams don't stretch out over time, and the fabric resists tearing or fraying.

3. A Subtle, Luxurious Luster

Unlike standard linen, which has a matte finish, ramie fibers have a natural, soft sheen. This gives garments like the Chloe Panel Shirt an elevated, rich texture that transitions effortlessly from casual weekend outings to polished dinners.

4. It Keeps Its Colour

This fabrication holds dyes exceptionally well. Whether you choose a soft neutral or a vibrant seasonal shade, your garments won't fade quickly in the wash or dull under the summer sun.

5. Naturally Sustainable

As a natural plant fiber, it is an eco-conscious choice. The crop requires minimal water and synthetic inputs to thrive, making it a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials and water-heavy textiles.

Spotlight On: The Chloe Panel Shirt

We designed the Chloe Panel Shirt to showcase everything ramie does best. Featuring clean panel detailing, a relaxed fit, and a structured collar, this shirt brings a refined edge to everyday dressing.

Because ramie naturally holds crisp tailoring, the panel detailing on the Chloe shirt sits flat and smooth all day long. Pair it with your favorite jeans for a casual look, or wear it with tailored pants or skirt to dress it up.

Your Ramie Fabric Questions, Answered

Is this fabric scratchy?

Not at all! While raw fibers can feel crisp initially, high-quality ramie fabric softens beautifully with every wash and wear, molding comfortably to your body over time.

Does it wrinkle easily like linen?

It does crease slightly like linen—it's part of its relaxed, natural charm! However, because ramie fibers are stronger and slightly stiffer, it holds structural shapes (like collars and button plackets) much better than pure linen does.

How do I wash my Ramie garments?

We recommend a gentle cold machine wash or hand wash with mild detergent. Hang it to dry in the shade. If you prefer a crisp look, a quick warm iron or steam while the fabric is slightly damp will have it looking brand new.

Ready to experience the beauty of this amazing textile for yourself? Step up your wardrobe with the breathable elegance of our latest arrivals.

Shop the Chloe Panel Shirt & other New Arrivals at White & Co.