The softness of sheets is often assumed to be down to the thread-count. This is basically the number of threads contained within 6.5 square centimetres (or one square inch) of fabric, both in length (warp) and width (weft). To give you a better idea standard cotton or muslin has a thread count of about 150 whereas as good quality sheets measure anything between 180 and 380. Anything above 380 is just a farce as the manufacturers are twisting threads together to create superior statistics. Thread count is not the be-all and end-all, rather softness depends more on the quality of the fibre than anything else, which is why a 200-thread-count fine cotton sheet can have a softer ‘hand’ or feel than a 380-thread-count sheet that uses an inferior grade of cotton. In any case stick to these brands and you can’t go wrong.
Pratesi
Over a century ago, this family-owned Italian company began serving its well-heeled clientele from its only shop in the exclusive environs of Forte dei Marmi. This exquisite embroiderer and maker of delicately stitched linens has expanded worldwide and is still the choice of any connoisseur. Everything is hand-embroidered by craftsmen who are required to apprentice for five years before being allowed to produce anything for sale. The elite of all Pratesi collections is the ‘Paradise’ which requires a week of weaving to produce just 10 metres of fabric.
Al Sawani Group
Jeddah, KSA
Tel +9662 660 1199
Al Sawani Group
Riyadh, KSA
Tel +9661 273 4109
Frette
Established in the south-eastern French town of Grenoble in 1860, Frette opened its first shop in Milan in 1878 and by 1878 became the official purveyors of the Italian Royal family. The company’s table linens were used in the banqueting rooms aboard the Titanic, and it has even supplied beautifully finished bedding to the Vatican. Associated with supreme quality and good taste, Frette is to linens what Rolls-Royce is to automobiles.
Beirut Central District
Beirut, Lebanon
Tel +961 1 999 707
Kingdom Centre
Riyadh, KSA
Tel +966 1 211 2820
Rubaiyat Fashion Designer
Jeddah, KSA
Tel +966 2 661 0430
Wafi City Centre
Dubai, UAE
Tel +971 4 324 2474
Landmark Shopping Mall
Doha, Qatar
Tel +974 4 874 331
Descamps
Since 1888, Descamps has been synonymous with high-end household linens. Often using distinctive lace and dotted with subtle hints of bright colours, the French company is known for the attention it gives to the tiniest detail. With such a solid reputation, it is hardly surprising to discover that Descamps has an extensive clientele that makes use of its bespoke service. The latter includes the development of exclusive products such as personalised embroidery, branding, initials or made-to-measure sizes.
Abu Dhabi Mall, Level 1
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Tel: +971 2 645 2246
BurjJuman Centre
Dubai, UAE
Tel: +971 4
Hamra Street
Beirut, Lebanon
Yves Delorme
With 162 years of solid experience, Yves Delorme is one of the most important names in the luxury linen industry. Part of the family-owned Fremaux Delorme, the French company frequently uses flower motifs to distinguish their products, which has in the past made the sheets a big hit with women. The eponymous couture collection is among the finest and boasts a modern flair with vibrant colours and is the more masculine option. Simple and yet chic, Yves Delorme is a trailblazer in the industry.
Sheraton Hotel, 6 Palace Avenue
Manama, Bahrain
Tel: +973 17 533533
The Linen Closet
Amman, Jordan
Tel +962 6593 4504
Arraya Centre
Kuwait City, Kuwait
Tel +965 481 9078
Al Muftah Centre
Doha, Qatar
Tel +974 446868
Tahleyah Street
Jeddah, KSA
Tel +9662 663 6022
