Product test
From baby blanket to design favourite: muslin reinvented
by Pia Seidel
Swiss design can also be terry towelling: simple can be this good
13.10.2025
Translation: machine translated
Pictures: Pia Seidel
Are you looking for high-quality towels that are modern, durable and affordable? Same here. That's why I tested "Tom" from Lavie. The Swiss label picks up on the currently trendy striped look, but also does its own thing.
This is exactly why Lavie piqued my curiosity. Like Tekla, the brand from Switzerland has been using organic cotton, linen and hemp since 2017, produces in Europe and scores with short transport routes. The new towelling collection «Tom», which I tested for a few weeks, combines the modern striped look with fresher colours and more attractive prices.
Unboxing: Minimalist, but with style
The striped pattern is classic and modern at the same time, but Lavie adds its own special touch. «Tom» is available in three colours - indigo, dark green and ice water - and comes in five sizes: 30 × 30 cm, 30 × 50 cm, 50 × 100 cm, 70 × 140 cm and 100 × 150 cm.
All towels come with a white corduroy hanger on the long side, which blends in well with any bathroom. The label also serves as a hanger on the short side. This provides a colourful contrast to the otherwise subtle pinstripe look and flexibility when hanging them up.
Material & processing: sustainable and well thought out
The «Tom» terry towels are made from 100 per cent GOTS-certified organic cotton. This means: environmentally friendly, fairly produced and chemical-free. Visually, the material scores points with a softly textured surface, as I know it from high-quality towels. The seams are neatly finished and the weight of the towelling is just right - not too light, not too heavy.
Another plus point: at «Tom», the yarn is dyed before weaving. This makes the colours more intense, more durable and more uniform. Compared to textiles that are dyed afterwards, the colours remain more brilliant even after frequent washing. This also results in more precise patterns and designs.
Everyday test: How good are they really?
After a few weeks of use, I can say: «Tom» is really fun. The towelling is dense yet quick-drying - exactly what I expect from a good design. The material feels pleasant on the skin, especially after showering. It's soft thanks to the slightly twisted loops and still looks voluminous after a few washes.
Speaking of washing: I washed the towels at 40 degrees and then put them in the tumble dryer. The result? No shrinkage, no discolouration, no fluff. Probably also because I made sure to only wash towels together. This meant that no buttons or zips could damage the loops.
In a nutshell
"Tom" from Lavie convinces
The "Tom" towelling underwear brings fresh style to the bathroom with its striped look. It is not only easy to handle, but also impresses with its pleasantly soft feel. As a towel, the fabric dries quickly enough between uses of the toilet. And for that extra dose of comfort? Treat yourself to the bath towel size - you can snuggle up completely.
For anyone who loves Tekla but is looking for a more readily available or more attractively priced alternative, I can recommend "Tom". For comparison: the Danish label's terry towel in the 100 × 150 cm size costs a hefty CHF 105, but if you want brighter colours such as pink or yellow, you won't find what you're looking for here and will have to turn to other brands.
Pro
- Timeless striped pattern
- Absorbent and quick-drying
- Easy to clean
- made from 100 % organic cotton
- yarn-dyed
Contra
- Currently only available in three colour variants
- Slightly more expensive than standard towels
Header image: Pia Seidel
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
