It's hard to describe the incredible rush we all get when we buy our very first or even our 100th piece of designer clothing. Every purchase is special and memorable for a lot of reasons but mainly because we know it's not just a garment, rather a piece of art custom made for us. But ladies, even the most expensive and high-quality piece of art will lose its covetable appeal and charm with neglect and lack of maintenance. So, now, that you have bought yourself something cherishable and heirloom-worthy, like a designer phulkari dupatta or a zari-woven designer saree, make it age well.
If you have been slacking away all this while, unknowingly or on purpose, it's time to gear up. Here are 6 tips that will definitely make your expensive designer clothing last longer.
Don't Just Obsess Over The Labels, Read Them Too
Yes, please! Apart from the charming story that went into the making of the piece, the buyer today has complete information about the garment in terms of fabric details or if any synthetic colour was used in the making too, especially if you are buying online. And not just that, most designer clothing comes with wash care and aftercare instructions straight from the designer. All you need to do is put that knowledge to use.
Storage Matters
Designer garments, especially the embellished sarees and lehengas, cannot be left in the open since their embroidery tends to blacken and tarnish over time. They need to be stored in a place that is not subject to heat and humidity to prevent UV damage and maintain the rich colour of the garment. Storing them in cool, dry, and dark environment like a dark cupboard or storage under the bed will ensure that they stay intact longer. To make it 100% moisture-proof and protect the embroidery we recommend wrapping them in a clean unbleached muslin cloth too.
Spot Clean Your Designer Clothing Immediately
As hard as we try to avoid the staining and the spillage, sometimes it just happens. But if you let them sit for too long they tend to become stubborn and get set. Spot-cleaning and pre-treating the stains with water and detergent (if it is absolutely needed) reduces the chances of permanent staining and makes the dry-cleaning treatment effective and easier too.
Keep Insects Away
If you have already bought your garment and plan on wearing it after 20 days or more chances are you are not going to store it right away. While that's okay we recommend placing it in a breathable protective garment bag in a cool dark environment (of course!) to prevent dust from accumulating. After wearing your designer clothing we urge you to send your garment for dry cleaning to prevent sweat induced bacterial growth before storing it away. To retain the smell of your garment until the next use you can also keep cloves, naphthalene balls, and lavender sachets in the storage box. This will also repel any insects and keep them completely pest-free.
Fold It
Heavily embroidered garments like a designer saree and a designer lehenga are very heavy in weight and hanging them will only weigh them down. Not to mention that over time your designer clothing will lose its shape. To keep the shape, embroidery, and the condition of the garment intact always fold them neatly before tucking them away and put sheets of acid-free tissue paper or butter paper between each fold.
Let It Out Once A Year
Do this not only to satisfy your sore eyes but also to let your garment breathe. When you store your garment for too long the creases tend to become permanent as well. Letting it out once a year will prevent creasing and will allow your garment to breathe again!
