Make it last the DISTANCE
FABRICS FIRST
‘Clothes are like skin – different types of fabrics need different types of care,’ says Josh Gilbertson, founder of fabric-care company The Lab Co. Meaning, it’s essential to identify the right ways to wash, store and protect your pieces. Cotton, polyester, nylon, synthetics and Spandex are hardier, and can be machine-washed. Satins and silks are delicate, requiring specialist care, while leather, velvet, vinyl and wool have unique requirements, so read labels and store as appropriate for each piece.
WHICH WASH?
When in doubt, given the age of most vintage styles, it is safer to hand wash, especially delicates including lace, satin and silk. ‘Ask yourself if the item really needs washing or just a good misting spray and time to air,’ Gilbertson says. Avoid dry cleaning, due to harsh chemicals. Time poor? ‘I would always urge people to handwash, but items can often be machine washed at cool temperatures on a slow spin cycle.’ Simply turn garments inside out, slip them into a mesh bag designed to hold delicates, wash cold using a mild detergent – try cool, new cleansing brand Kair, whose delicate washing detergent fixes stains and musty vintage odours – and lay flat to dry. Et voilà.
STORE SAFE
‘Good storage is essential to preventing damage,’ says ElizabethAnne Haldane, Principal Textiles Conservator at the V&A.
‘Most damage comes from poor environmental conditions: sunlight and humidity – and pests.’ Beware the moth, perhaps fashion’s greatest foe. No one method is foolproof, but natural repellents, like lavender pouches and cedarwood balls are a safe bet. Haldane adds that it’s best to avoid hanging garments. So preserve your pieces, and ensure they retain their shape, by keeping them folded and flat, stored away from sunlight.
REPAIR AND REWEAR
‘Scuffs and scratches are par for the course with wear,’ says Emily Rea, co-founder of The Restory. So don’t write off damaged goods. Extend their life by enlisting the help of restoration services, such as The Restory for bags and shoes, and Jason Markk for trainers. Rea adds that before it gets to that stage: ‘Keep shoes and handbags in dust bags.’ She also suggests cleaning and applying nourishing cream to leather to increase longevity. When it comes to heels: ‘Re-heel them before they have worn down fully.’ Think a piece is a lost cause? Consult a garment repair specialist anyway. From fixing to upcycling, they might surprise you.
Size it RIGHT
GOOD MEASURE
Sizing and silhouettes have changed over the years, so the only way to guarantee your piece will fit as desired is to keep a tape measure handy. Many renowned sellers, such as Beyond Retro, have a handy guide to getting it right, as well as modern-day conversion charts online.
TINKER TAILOR
Enlist the help of an alterations pro. Most dry cleaners are equipped to make simple adjustments. Strike up a conversation and learn what skills are in their repertoire, as they might be able to assist with some major transformations, too.
BIG WINS
Fashion’s love affair with oversized styles is ongoing. If you buy big – from jackets to roomy laissez-faire slacks – embrace those XL proportions without tweaks. Or buy larger, rather than smaller, as it’s easier to tailor to fit you.