How to Care for Embroidered Suits So They Last
Washing, drying and storing embroidered and heavily worked outfits the gentle way.
Embroidery is delicate. The first rule is to read the care label on your outfit and follow it. When in doubt, dry-clean heavily embroidered, beaded or sequined pieces.
If hand-washing is allowed, use cool water and a mild detergent. Turn the garment inside out, soak briefly, and press gently. Never wring or twist the fabric, and avoid scrubbing the embroidery.
Dry in the shade, flat or on a padded hanger. Direct sun can fade colours, and a hot dryer can shrink fabric and damage threads.
Iron on the reverse side at a low temperature, with a cloth between the iron and the embroidery. Never press directly on beads, sequins or metallic thread.
Store embroidered suits folded in soft cotton or muslin, not in plastic, so the fabric can breathe. Keep them away from damp, and fold along different lines every few months to avoid permanent creases.