Summers are the perfect time to wear cotton dresses.
Summer is here and it’s time to bring out your light and breathable cotton outfits. With a little extra care your precious cotton dresses will reward you with long lasting comfort and style.
That lovely floral cotton dress that you bought is like second skin to you. Not to mention the envious glances that it gets you from your colleagues. Now before it fades into oblivion, here is a simple guide to ensure that retains its look until the temperatures go soaring next summer.
When to wear
Summers are the best times to wear cotton. They are lightweight, airy yet absorbent. Avoid the rains and winter to keep the fabric and the colour intact.
Deal with the tear
A tear along the stitching can be easily mended but a tear on the cloth itself might take some more work. So haul it to a really good tailor for some patching. You can also cover up with some embroidery, something you cannot attempt with silks and satins.
Wash and dry
Try to hand-wash for longevity. If you are using a machine, separate lighter cottons from the heavier ones and turn clothes inside out. Choose a suitable wash-load. If your cottons have even a hint of dye used, then wash them separately and carefully.
Whenever possible, line or drip-dry cottons. If using a dryer, tumble-dry, remove immediately and fold. Adjust the heat on the dryer or you could shrink your cottons. Being a natural fiber, cotton may be stretched when originally manufactured so when you wash, prepare to face some shrinkage.
Storage
Roller-press cottons or iron at a temperature warm enough to get the wrinkles out. Store in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight after drying sufficiently.
Upkeep
To maintain high-end cotton garments, your best bet is the dry cleaner’s. However, starch, usually used on cotton for that crisp look, is not doing the fabric any good. So try to wear your favourite cottons with starch only when you’re trying to impress.
Cotton secrets
Cottons do stain easily so stay away from the high alkaline perfumes, deodorants etc. that result in self-designed patches. For a stain fiasco, immediately wash with water and pre-soak the garment in some detergent before wash.
Easier said than done, huh? It might sound like a lot of work but your cottons will appreciate all the caring!
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