Embroidery, sequins, mirrors and beadwork are what make formalwear special, and with a little care they will look beautiful for years. These are the guidelines we follow ourselves.
Cleaning
- Dry clean embellished formals. Always point out the embellishments to your cleaner so they can be protected during the process.
- Lawn and cotton co-ords can be gently hand washed in cold water with a mild detergent. Wash dark colours separately the first time.
- Never wring embellished fabric. Press the water out gently between two towels.
Drying and pressing
- Dry in the shade. Direct sunlight fades colours and can dull metallic thread.
- Iron on the reverse side on a low setting, or use a steamer held a few inches away from the fabric.
Storage
- Fold heavy pieces rather than hanging them, so the weight of the embellishment does not stretch the shoulders.
- Place tissue paper between folds and store in a breathable cotton bag rather than plastic.
- Keep sequinned pieces away from anything with a rough surface that could snag them.
Before you wear
Give the outfit a light steam and check the fastenings. A quick five minutes the night before means you can enjoy the celebration without worrying about your outfit.
If you ever need advice on caring for a specific piece, email us at support@aylalondon.com and we will help.
