Tips to Maintain & Store Heavy Indian Outfits

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Last Updated on July 2, 2024 by Ishika Malhotra

Indian formal wear, known for their intricate designs, rich fabrics, and vibrant colours, is an art in itself. Whether it’s a majestic silk saree, an elegant sherwani, or a heavily embroidered lehenga, these outfits hold immense sentimental and cultural value. Which is why, it is a must to properly maintain and store heavy Indian outfits. It is essential to ensure they remain in pristine condition for years to come. In this blog, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and insights on how to store and care for your precious outfits.

How to Maintain & Store Heavy Indian Outfits

Cleaning Before Storage

Before you manage to store heavy Indian formals, it’s crucial to ensure they are clean and free from any stains or odours. Follow these steps to prepare your garments for storage:

Spot Cleaning: Examine your clothing for any visible stains or spills. Use a gentle stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water to spot clean the affected areas. Be sure to test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to avoid any damage.

Professional Cleaning: For heavily soiled or delicate garments, consider professional dry cleaning services. Make sure to communicate the garment’s fabric and embellishments to the cleaner to ensure they use the appropriate methods. 

Air Out and Dry: Allow your cleaned garments to air out and completely dry before storing them. This helps prevent mould or mildew growth during storage. Alternatively, you could also steam iron your outfits. This helps in getting rid of any foul smell or germs. 

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Proper Folding Techniques

The way you fold your Indian formals can significantly impact their longevity. Follow these folding techniques to minimise creasing and preserve the fabrics:

Sarees: For sarees, fold them lengthwise and then in half horizontally. Store them in saree bags or cotton cloth bags to protect them from dust and moisture.

Lehengas: Lehengas should be folded with the skirt and blouse placed separately. Store them in breathable garment bags to prevent wrinkles and protect intricate embroidery.

Sherwanis and Anarkalis: Use padded hangers to hang sherwanis and Anarkalis to maintain their shape. Alternatively, you can fold them neatly and store them in garment bags.

Tip: Always take out your outfit and hang them in a spacious area one or two days prior to the event. This allows the outfits to retain its shape and get rid of any musty smells.

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Choose the Right Storage Containers

Selecting appropriate containers is essential to store heavy Indian outfits and keep them from dust, light, and pests. Consider the following options:

Garment Bags: Invest in high-quality, breathable garment bags made from natural fabrics like cotton or muslin. These bags allow the fabric to breathe and protect it from dust.

Acid-Free Tissue Paper: Place acid-free tissue paper between folds and layers of your garments to prevent color transfer and protect delicate embellishments.

Airtight Containers: For long-term storage, use airtight containers with a tight-sealing lid to safeguard against moisture and pests. Place a sachet of silica gel inside to absorb any excess humidity.

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Keep Them in a Cool, Dark Place

The storage location plays a significant role in preserving your Indian formals. Store your garments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade away colours and weaken fabrics. Refrain from using plastic bags for long-term storage, as they can trap moisture and promote mould growth. Also, take precautions against pests by placing cedar blocks or lavender sachets in your storage area. These natural repellents help keep insects away.

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Rotate Your Collection

Even if you’re not wearing your heavy Indian formals regularly, it’s a good idea to rotate them occasionally. This prevents the fabric from becoming weak or discoloured in one area due to extended periods of storage. Keep the clothes in such an order that you can easily remember to rotate them in shifts. Remember, while rotating, allow the garments a little time in thee open. This will make sure the fabrics don’t get mouldy or stinky. You can inspect the outfits for any loose embroideries or colour transfers while rotating. 

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Handle with Care

When you decide to wear your Indian formals, be gentle while handling them. Follow these tips to avoid damaging the delicate fabrics and embellishments. Avoid Jewelry Snags. Be cautious with sharp-edged jewellery and accessories that can snag or pull threads on your garments. Instead of ironing, which can damage delicate fabrics and embroidery, use a garment steamer to remove wrinkles. An important tip is also to avoid spraying perfumes directly onto your clothing, as they can stain or discolour the fabric. Apply perfume before putting on your Indian formals. 

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Regular Inspection is a Must 

Periodically check your stored Indian formals for any signs of damage or pests. If you notice any issues, take immediate action to prevent further damage. Repair loose seams or missing embellishments promptly to avoid larger problems later. Always inspect the outfit before and after wearing them to the event and never store dirty garments. Always wash or dry clean your outfits before storing to prevent smell or stains from lingering. Regularly inspecting your outfits also allow you to increase their longevity. Formal Indian outfits are our priced possessions after all, we want them to last as long as possible, right?

Your heavy Indian formals are not just garments; they are pieces of art and culture that deserve proper care and attention. By following these tips on cleaning, folding, storing, and maintaining your precious attires, you can ensure they remain in excellent condition for generations to come. With the right care, your Indian formals will continue to dazzle and captivate, carrying forward the timeless beauty of Indian fashion.

We hope you found these tips to maintain and store heavy Indian outfits useful. For more such tips on fashion and beauty, stay tuned to Styl Inc Blogs. And for all your personal styling or wardrobe management needs, get in touch with our in house stylists and book and appointment now!

Keep’in it Styl’ ish,

Signing off,

Kashika