Care guide
Made to be kept.
Occasionwear deserves a long life. A little care keeps sarees and embellished pieces beautiful for years to come.
Always follow the care label on your piece first. Where it differs from this guide, the label is the one to trust.
Before you wear
A little preparation protects delicate fabric and embellishment.
- Apply perfume, deodorant and hairspray before you dress and let them dry. Alcohol and oils can mark silk and dull zari.
- Pin through the weave of the fabric, never through embroidery or metallic thread.
- Jewellery, bangles and bag clasps with sharp edges can pull threads. Take a moment to check before you step out.
Cleaning
When in doubt, choose the gentler method.
- Dry clean silk, embroidered, zari and embellished pieces with a cleaner experienced in occasionwear.
- Where the care label allows washing, use cold water and a mild detergent, and wash by hand.
- Wash dark and bright colours separately. Do not soak for long, and never wring or twist the fabric.
- Blot a spill with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub, and avoid home remedies on silk.
Drying and pressing
Sunlight and direct heat are the two things fine fabric dislikes most.
- Dry in the shade. Direct sunlight fades colour, especially on silk and deep dyes.
- Dry heavier pieces flat or over a wide rail so that their weight does not stretch them.
- Iron on the reverse, on low heat, with a cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric.
- Steam embellished pieces instead of ironing them. Never place an iron directly on zari, sequins or embroidery.
Storing
Most damage happens in the wardrobe, not on the day.
- Wrap each piece in soft cotton or muslin. Avoid plastic covers, which trap moisture.
- Fold heavy sarees and lehengas instead of hanging them, so they keep their shape.
- Refold along different lines every few months to prevent permanent creases and splits.
- Store in a cool, dry place. Neem leaves, cloves or silica sachets keep damp and insects away. Keep naphthalene balls from touching the fabric.
- Air your pieces out in the shade once in a while, even when they have not been worn.
Zari and embellishment
Metallic thread and handwork need the gentlest handling of all.
- Keep zari away from moisture and perfume, which can cause it to tarnish.
- Fold with the embroidered side inwards, with tissue or muslin between the folds.
- If a thread comes loose, do not pull it. Secure it from the reverse or take it to a tailor.
A last word
Cared for well, a good saree outlasts the occasion it was bought for, and is worn again and again.
A question about caring for a piece?
Tell us about the fabric and the work on it, and we will be glad to advise on how best to look after it.