Summer is the perfect time to swap your warm cotton bed sheets and spreads for cool crisp linen. Luxurious, feminine, delicate, and romantic are words often used to describe the wonderful feel of real linen fabric. This old fiber is becoming more popular than it was only a generation ago.

While the term "linen" is often used as a generic description of cotton and silk textiles, genuine linen is made from the long fibers of the flax plant. Its sophisticated qualities make linen ideal for intimate summertime bed sheets, pillows, shams, duvet covers, and pretty lace curtains.

The earliest known linen fabric dates back to ancient Egyptian times. But linen's more passionate history is better known from the Victorian era. If cotton was King in the English aristocracy, then linen was certainly his royal lady. Refined Victorian women would extend their petticoat style from their wardrobe to the privacy of their bedchambers. Lavish white-on-white sheets and covers with fine fanciful patterns created an irresistible lure even on the warmest of nights.

Linen fabric breathes, just like skin. Linen is light on the body and absorbs moisture in warm weather. Its inherent strength (twice that of cotton) makes it perfect for intricate embroidery, soft ruffles, eyelet trim, lovely lace, damask, and other sensuous details. It's no wonder that centuries of insatiable romantics have looked to linen to enhance their most personal evening affairs.

In modern times, Eastern Europe, France, China, Egypt, Holland and Belgium produce most of the world's flax. Up until recently, the finest linen yarn was made in Scotland, Ireland, and Belgium. Today, however most fine linen originates in China.

As linen is used and washed, the softer and stronger it becomes. To help keep its whiteness, white linens can be dried in the sun. However, it is recommended that drapery, upholstery and decorative linens be dry cleaned only.

Linen yarn often reveals small knots, or "slubs" that randomly occur along it length. Slubs are actually defects in the yarn. The finest linen is smooth and consistent. Decorators in traditional European style adore vintage linen that has been handed down generation to generation. Look for a combination of flawless materials, impeccable construction, fine workmanship, and intricate design. These lasting heirlooms are true treasures carrying the continuity of devotion.

Whether vintage or new, true linen finery offers a beautiful finishing touch to the stylish bedroom and elegant bath and can help renew the allure of its amorous history.

Wanda Crossley is the owner of The English Manor in Leesburg, Virginia.