Keep your prized wedding lehenga in mint condition with these storage tips
You’ve obviously spent a lot of time and money to buy the perfect wedding lehenga. Here’s how you should preserve it.
For every bride, her wedding lehenga holds tremendous sentimental value. Apart from being a hefty one-time investment, it is also a cherish worthy garment that holds a plethora of memories from her big day. Understandably so, such a precious and delicate possession demands extra effort when it comes to preservation! Unlike jewelry that can be stowed away in boxes after the festivities are over, a wedding lehenga requires extra love and care to preserve its sheen and fabric. So, if you’re a new bride who wants to ensure her lehenga stays just as new at her 10th wedding anniversary, here are a few tips to keep in mind before you start packing up your wedding ensemble!
Follow the instructions on the label
Every garment that has been bought off the shelf usually comes with a tag that has specific instructions on how to wash it. The same applies to your wedding lehenga. More often than not, these garments are heavily embellished, and certain detergents and chemicals can cause great harm. To avoid such a mishap, it’s best to follow the instructions on the label carefully, keep an eye out for specific chemicals that should be avoided, and consult a trusted dry cleaner who knows their craft!
Double-check your garment for wear and tear
Indian wedding festivities come with a side of dancing and other adventurous shenanigans! Hence, there’s a high chance that your outfit may have few signs of wear and tear. Crafted out of fine fabric, even a single stray thread can ruin your hefty investment. So make sure you scan your lehenga carefully and do the needful repairs before you box it up.
Dry cleaning is essential
Not just wedding lehengas but almost every festive outfit deserves a trip to the dry cleaners. Washing at home is a big no-no! Especially with Indian wear that’s high on embellishments and vibrant hues. Dry cleaning your wedding lehenga right after the wedding ensures that it’s spick and span for the next time you decide to wear it. Additionally, it also protects the delicate fabric from discoloration.
Avoid the closet, box it up instead
Contrary to what you see on screen, precious garments like your wedding lehenga shouldn’t be left uncovered in your closet. While you can always keep it in a suit cover, a box that matches the length and breadth of your lehenga is the safest option. Scout for a box made out of acid-free materials, one that can fit your lehenga in with minimal creasing. Humidity can wreak havoc over time, so keep your lehenga box well away from extreme temperatures so that the embellishments and the fabric retain their sheen.
Air it out
If your lehenga has spent more than a few months in the closet, it’s high time you give it some fresh air and sunlight. Letting your lehenga breathe ensures that any extra moisture that’s collected within it evaporates under the sun so that there’s no fabric decay. Besides, this also gives you a good excuse to wear it again and marvel at its beauty!
Learn the nuances of storage
Just boxing up your lehenga isn’t enough. For heavy wedding lehengas, before you put them into the cover get your hands on soft mul fabric or bag to keep your garment in and pack each piece of clothing separately to prevent the embellishments from sticking to each other. Tissue and butter papers should be strictly avoided as they can stain over time. You can also layer mul fabric in between folds to avoid permanent creasing, and stuff the sleeves of your choli to keep its shape intact. Additionally, if your lehenga and choli is accessorized by latkans, you can keep them gleaming by tying a small plastic bag around them for protection.
Multiple layers of can-can tend to take up a lot of space and if you’re in possession of a modest closet, then it’s best to remove those extra layers of fabric. However, it’s advisable to keep one layer of can-can to show off your lehenga in its complete glory whenever the mood strikes you!
Invest in a padded hanger
When it comes to storing your wedding lehenga, the little details are of great importance. If you are planning to hang your lehenga choli set in the closet, it’s better to steer away from regular wired hangers as they can make your heavy outfit sag. Instead, opt for a sturdy padded hanger and enclose your lehenga in a garment bag to protect it further.
Keep the moths away
Moths can spell disaster for your wedding lehenga! The easiest way to circumvent moths are mothballs. However, if you’re not too keen on chemicals, then you can also use a biodegradable spray inside your lehenga box. Also, to ensure it smells fresh when you decide to wear it next, toss in a few cloves in a fabric pouch within the box!
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