Whether it’s one- or two-button, double- or single-breasted, tuxedos need love too especially as we go into Holiday/party season. Here are our best tips: DO steam and dry-clean only once a year! Before wearing it, loosen the wool and kill any bacteria by leaving it in a steam-filled bathroom DO store your tuxedo in a dark space in a breathable suit bag ~ do a periodic check to make sure the moths haven’t eaten through it DON’T use a wire
clean whites after every wear to avoid engraining the dirt add vinegar to each load to brighten whites use the warm water to avoid shrinkage
wear your suits 3-4 times before they’re drycleaning dryclean them together to avoid color fades/changes ensure your drycleaner covers all buttons (usually with foil) to avoid lose
It’s always better to fold and store sweaters than to hang them…the hangars typically create false shoulders or points and over time they are very difficult to remove and ruin the fit of your garment.
When you get a stain on an item, ♥ place a cloth underneath the stain to absorb the stain, ♥ use cold water, ♥ and dab don’t rub the stain! Last note: if you’re going to try to treat and remove a stain, do so before washing because that essential sets the stain in your clothing!! Our pick: White House Black Market’s Stain Remover, (866-636-5227); it gets out grease, blood, grass, red wine and the list goes on….
Day 7: Denim. Denim is timeless, versatile and chic; and a staple in every wardrobe. Denim can be washed at all temperatures but cooler is safer. Similar to other natural fibers, iron while damp. Only wash denim every two or three wears. Wash denim inside out. Let denim air dry to help retain its color. Designer Megan Havard of True Religion says this season we should look for updates to include embellishments like studding, leather and sequins. “This season we
Day 6: Silk. It’s a natural fiber and has a sheer, delicate and translucent look to the material. In summer, it’s a great substitute for cotton and brings slightly more feminity to any piece. Don’t risk washing a silk that is supposed to be dryclean only. If it’s washable, use only the hand wash cycle on your machine. Dry with a light spin, or roll delicate items in a towel. Perspiration is difficult to remove and is best treat by
Day 5: Polyester. Polyester is making a comeback with interesting textures like crushed silk and knits which are now imitating silk jersey and its draping ability. Wash often because it attracts greasy soiling. Most are machine washable in warm water but, don’t add fabric softener until the final rinse to prevent static and excess creasing. Tumble dry on low. Iron with a cool iron only. .
Day 4: Viscose. Viscose is easily blended with other fibers such as satin but, it is very difficult to get 100% viscose. Its fibers are natural even though chemicals are used to make it. Viscose becomes weaker when wet. Best fabric care is to hand-wash frequently in warm water; avoid wringing or twisting; and blot dry before handing. Iron while damp. Avoid pressing over the seams .
Day 3: Cotton. Cotton is king if you live in a warm climate–it breathes as opposed to generating extra heat for the body. Whether in its crisp form, poplin, or its softer form, sateen, its multi-faceted and versatile. Cotton comes in several gauges from lightweight summer fabrics to heavy duty denim. Although cooler temperatures are better, cotton can be washed at all temperatures. For whites, the hottest temperature possible is best to boost whiteness. Don’t wash drip-dry cottons at high
Day 2: Linen. Linen has a life of its own and can drape wonderfully if it is of high quality. It is one of the coolest fibers to wear for the summer climate…and we need that in DC! Linen can be treated as a hardwearing fiber, but it can stretch or lose shape if not cared for properly. The fiber washes and wears well as long as it’s ironed at high temperatures. Avoid overloading the machine because it has a tendency
Day 1: Cashmere, Lamb’s Wool & Mohair. Woolens are natural, soft fibers which can quickly felt with careless washing so, when washing, check the label! If the garment indicates ‘machine washable’ always use the gentlest cycle. For hand washables, take extra care because they can felt as well! Woolens should be left to dry flat and inside out but avoid direct sunlight and heat. Gently pull it into shape. You can iron wool: press on the wrong side with a warm
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