Our Materials

MATERIALS

Martine Love dresses are handmade with fine, high quality materials from start to finish. Linen is our passion and a mix of it with other textiles our obsession. We work with 100% linen or a portion of it mixed with viscose, rayon, cotton and/or sorona. Why?

Linen

Linen (Li) is made of flax plant fibers and is one of the oldest textiles in the world. Findings suggest that the use of this textile may date back over 34,000 years. No water is used in the process of production and it emits ¼ the amount of carbon as cotton per pound of fiber. It is a super strong textile, highly absorbent and dries fast. Perfect to wear all year round as it is able to keep body temperature even.

Viscose

Viscose (Vi) is the most “natural” artificial fiber because while the process to make it is synthetic, its cellulose fibers are made from wood pulp or cotton seed. It is breathable, absorbent, lightweight, smooth, very comfortable.

Rayon

Rayon (Ra) is a fiber also made from purified cellulose fibers but the difference from viscose is that it looks and feels more “silky”. It was discovered in the 1880s but only in the 1920s the use of it in fashion became popular.

Cotton

Cotton (Co) is almost pure cellulose hence is a natural fiber. Used to make soft, breathable, wrinkle and tear resistant textiles, it is also one of the oldest textiles in the world. Our cotton is Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified.

Sorona

Sorona (So) is the most revolutionary fiber to be produced in the last 60 years and is cultivated from bio-based raw materials. It is made eco-efficient and therefore supports sustainable living. It is exceptionally soft, lightweight, breathable, fast drying, UV & chlorine resistant and stretches superiorly.

SOURCING

We carefully source our materials having in mind the best practices available in the textile and thread production industries. Although is never easy for a small brand to chase the supply chain, we make a big effort to question our partners and make sure we are all working in the most sustainable way possible.

Every product page states the composition and washing recommendations.

HANDMADE

It takes a good number of hours of craftsmanship to do what we do.

Every item is unique and handmade from the moment of first sketch up until the assembly of the final piece:

Vintage Inspiration

First, for the sketch, we start with some vintage fashion inspiration. Then we calculate measurements to make the pattern, cut it on paper and then proceed to cut it on toile.

Fit it on a Real Body

The pleats, the reversed tulip shaped skirt and the western yoke are three of the main secrets for a good fit, harmonious cut and perfect drop. Once the piece is assembled for the first time, we fit it on a real body. We then make the necessary adjustments or alterations.

Sketch on the Dress

When we get to the final version of the garment it’s time to sketch what is going to be embroidered:
First, we choose the element that goes on the superior center back. That will define the elements that follow and gracefully delineate the continuity of the garment and highlight its shape.

Handembroid

After sketching every detail, we entrust the piece to the magic fingers of the embroiderer. This work is the ultimate expression of tradition, expertise and beauty of craftsmanship. Hand embroidery is truly at its best when the work is as beautiful on the outside as on the inside.

This is how we make a Martine Love.

PRODUCTION

Production is limited and therefore follows a specific timeframe which cannot be rushed.

Any piece or garment from our archive can be made or reproduced. Expect a delivery period of 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the extent of our waiting list.

We would love to hear from you directly, be it a special request that you can order here or a share of you wearing our designs hashtagging: #girlsmartineloves.