How to Make Your Party Clothes Last Longer

April 20, 2011 · 2 comments

Womens Plus Sizes Alexandra Gathered Dress

Party clothes, such as prom dresses, cocktail dresses and tuxedos are expensive, which is why they should be treated properly so that they can last as long as possible. What can you do to make party clothes last longer?

The Best Time to Apply Hairspray or Fragrances
Many of us are in the habit of applying hairspray or fragrances right before slipping into our party clothes. However, if you wish to prolong the life of your party clothes, it is best to wait until the hairspray or perfume is completely dry before getting dressed. The alcohol in these products can stain and take out the colors found in delicate fabrics, such as silk. If your silk dress or tie has been stained by hairspray or fragrances, it will be difficult to get out.

Check Labels for Washing Instructions
Before you throw your cocktail dress into the washing machine with a full load of laundry, check the label for washing instructions. Clothing with sequins, beads and embroidery needs to be carefully washed to help maintain the fabrics and prevent the loss of exterior decorations. Some party clothes should only be hand washed in cold water or machine washed on a gentle cycle. Other garments would benefit from being dry cleaned.

Hang Party Clothes Correctly
An easy way to make party clothes last longer is to hang them correctly inside. Avoid using metal hangers. Not only do metal hangers scrape off the paint on clothes rails, but they can also stretch fabrics and ruin the shape of your cocktail dresses. Use hangers that will protect your party clothes, such as plastic hangers with shoulder protection.

Keeping party clothes in the plastic from the dry cleaner’s is not the best option, as fibers need to breathe, even when the clothes are hanging. By keeping party clothes wrapped up in plastic, you are actually encouraging the build up of moisture, which can lead to mildew damage and trapped odors. The last thing you want is to slip into a dress that reeks of mildew. If you are concerned about the state of your formal party clothes, invest in canvas garment bags to help protect garments that you would like to wear again.

Reduce Wear and Tear when You Return Home
The easiest way to reduce wear and tear on party clothes is to remove them and slip into something else as soon as you get home. The less you wear the party clothes, the longer they will last. Get dressed into your party clothes closer to the time you plan to leave and then have other clothes on hand to slip into when you return home.

Party clothes should be treated carefully to help protect them from stains, shrinkage and breakage. Taking the time to treat your party clothes with the proper care now will help extend the life of your clothes.

Related posts:

  1. Trouble Hanging Your Clothes?
  2. Plus Size Holiday Party Tips: Post 1
  3. Plus Size Holiday Party Tips: Post 2
  4. 4 Holiday Party Fashion Mistakes to Avoid
  5. Plus Size Clothes for Girls

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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

Valentine Grimm April 21, 2011 at 6:03 am

Thank you for sharing this information on how to make my party clothes durable. I was really browsing the net for this information and I found your site very informative. Keep it up!

Nisha April 25, 2011 at 11:50 pm

thank you , this is very helpful as I have problems with swimsuits fitting me properly, ive brougt so many but I still have the same problem thanks again!
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