Clothing, aside from being functional, is also a tool for self-expression and one of quickest ways to tell the world who you are or at least who you choose to be that day! We can pick our outfits depending on mood, a trait we wish to convey and as a reflection of our individual personality.
But the cost of this necessity can add up or even if an item doesn’t cost a whole lot you can still treasure it and want it to last. Caring for your clothes makes cents (!) so let´s learn from earlier generations and make our garments last longer.
We’re all guilty of abandoning clothing in need of small repairs like a lost button or loose stitching in the we’ll get around to it pile. It’s best to prioritise fixing any necessary repairs quickly. Also, your shoes will last a lot longer if you get them reheeled regularly.
This is an obvious one but think about holding off on washing an item if you’ve only worn it once or for a few hours as excessive washing breaks down fibers and fades colours faster. We’re all far too germaphobic these days.
This snazzy sequin skirt will need to be handled with care in order for it to last till next party season
Are you a bit lazy when it comes to hanging up clothes and instead throw them over a chair or worse on the floor at the end of a hard day? Admittedly it is a bit of a pain but always hanging your clothes up properly will make them look newer for longer. Wooden hangers are generally recommended rather than the wire versions that only serve to create those funny bumps in the shoulders of dresses and shirts.
It´s also important to remember that caring for clothes means dealing with stains as soon as they happen. If they’re left it will only become more difficult to remove. Result – one ruined item that ends up in the bin.
What are your tips for making your clothing last? Tell us in the comments below.
Images: Dorothy Perkins
