Elegant dresses serve as timeless pieces in our wardrobes, carrying with them cherished memories of events or milestones. Whether it's a wedding dress, a ball gown, or a chic cocktail ensemble, looking after these outfits well will ensure they stay beautiful and wearable for many years ahead. Here's how to expertly maintain and store your sophisticated dresses.
Dress Cleaning
Always clean your dress before storage. Even if it may not look soiled, undetectable stains from body oils, perspiration, and scent can harm the fabric as time goes by.
Understand the Label: Always read the care tag. Some dresses may need dry cleaning, while others can be delicately hand-washed.
Spot Cleaning: For minor, faint stains, spot cleaning using a mild detergent can do the trick. Always test the cleaner on an unnoticeable area first to ensure it won't cause fabric damage.
Dress Storage
Correct storage methods are vital to avoid damage like tears, yellowing, or set-in folds.
Choose the Correct Hanger: Hang the dress on a padded hanger to stop warping or shoulder distortion. For weightier gowns, storing them flat is advisable to avoid tension on the fabric.
Bypass Plastic Bags: Keep your dress in a breathable garment cover or wrapped in a white cotton sheet. Plastic retains moisture, which can cause mould or fabric discolouration.
Climate Controlled: Store your dress in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight as this can bleach and weaken the fabric.
Folding and Boxing
When it comes to long-term storage, especially for voluminous dresses like wedding gowns, boxing trumps hanging.
Use Acid-Free Boxes: Store your dress in an acid-free box with acid-free tissue paper. This helps prevent fabric yellowing.
Layer with Tissue Paper: Situate tissue paper between the folds of the dress to avoid permanent creases and provide a cushion for the fabric.
Seal the Box: While the box should be sealed to ward off dust and pests, ensure some airflow to avoid fabric breakdown.
Regular Checks
Check on your dress if it has been stored for a long time.
Air It Out: Occasionally take your dress out of storage to air. This helps avoid musty smells and gives you an opportunity to check it for any potential problems.
Re-fold Occasionally: Alter the folds in your dress now and then to prevent fabric strain and permanent creasing along the fold lines.
Handling and Wearing
When touching your dress, ensure your hands are clean and dry to avoid transferring oils or grime to the fabric. Also, when donning your dress, be cautious of jewellery or accessories that might pull the fabric.
Professional Help
For high-end or particularly sensitive dresses, consider seeking advice from a professional for cleaning and storage. They can offer services customised to your garment's specific requirements, ensuring it stays in perfect condition for longer.
Conclusion
Looking after sophisticated dresses requires a little more effort, but it's a small price to pay to keep these stunning garments in flawless condition. By heeding these storage and care steps, you can ensure your elegant dresses continue to be ready for any event, preserving both the fabric and the treasured memories they hold.
In search of the ideal elegant attire or need further guidance on how to maintain it? Drop by Destiny Chic for an impressive range of breathtaking dresses and expert care advice suited to your specific needs. Allow us to help you make your formal wear ageless!