VINTAGE CLOTHING PRESERVATION & STORAGE CARE FOR GOODWOOD REVIVAL
The Goodwood Revival is just around the corner, and for many, it's a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the elegance of bygone eras. Whether you’re throwing on a 1940s tea dress or a 1960s mod suit, preserving your vintage garments to ensure they remain in pristine condition is essential. Vintage clothing requires special care to preserve its beauty and integrity, so here’s your comprehensive guide to preserving vintage clothing and storing your treasured pieces.
THE IMPORTANCE OF REPAIRING VINTAGE GARMENTS
Vintage clothing, by its very nature, is delicate and often has a history that includes signs of wear and tear. Before you wear your garments to the Goodwood Revival, it's crucial to inspect and repair any damage. Repairing vintage clothing not only helps preserve the garment's unique character but also extends its lifespan, preventing it from ending up in landfill.
A recent study by UK textiles charity WRAP found that 30% of people have garments in their wardrobe that they no longer wear because they need to be fixed, but taking the time to mend these items allows us to reduce waste, make the most of our wardrobe, and keep these cherished pieces in circulation for longer.
INSPECT FOR DAMAGE
To preserve your vintage clothing, start by carefully examining it for loose threads, missing buttons, or small tears. Pay special attention to seams, hems, and underarm areas, as these are often the most vulnerable to wear.
BASIC REPAIRS
Small tears can often be hand-stitched with a matching thread, while missing buttons can be replaced with vintage or reproduction buttons. If you're not confident in your sewing skills, consider taking your garment to a professional who specialises in vintage clothing repair.
PRESERVING AUTHENTICITY
When repairing, aim to maintain the garment's authenticity. Use original or similar materials wherever possible and avoid modern techniques that might alter the garment's original look and feel.
PROTECTING YOUR VINTAGE GARMENTS FROM DAMAGE
Once your garment is repaired, the next step in preserving its quality is protecting it from further damage, especially from clothes moths, moisture, and dust. Vintage clothing is particularly vulnerable to deterioration over time, especially if not properly cared for. Clothes moths are drawn to natural fibres like wool and silk, and they can cause irreparable damage by feeding on these fabrics.
Moisture, on the other hand, can lead to mould and mildew growth, which can stain and weaken the fibres, while prolonged exposure to dust can embed particles into the fabric, leading to discolouration and fabric degradation.
MOTH PROTECTION
Clothes moths are notorious for damaging natural fibres like wool, silk, and cashmere. Before storing your garments, ensure they are thoroughly clean, as moths are attracted to the scent of sweat, skin cells, and food particles. Our range of anti-moth products, including natural moth repellents and cedarwood hanging blocks, are designed to keep these pesky insects at bay to preserve your much-loved vintage garments.
PROPER CLEANING
Vintage garments require gentle cleaning to preserve their delicate fabrics, intricate details, and overall integrity. Hand wash delicate fabrics using our specially formulated laundry liquids that are kind to vintage materials. For more robust items, consider dry cleaning, but always choose a service that understands vintage clothing.
USE OF PROTECTIVE COVERS
Store your clothes in breathable garment bags, like our non-woven garment bags, to protect them from dust and light, this will help maintain their freshness, prevent discolouration, and extend their lifespan. We recommend avoiding plastic covers as they can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
STORING VINTAGE GARMENTS FOR LONG TERM CARE
Whether you’re storing your garments between events or preserving them for future generations, proper storage is key to maintaining their condition. Here are some recommended storage tips from our founder, Julia Dee, for enhancing the preservation of vintage clothing after the Goodwood Revival.
CLEAN BEFORE STORING
Always clean your garments before storing them. Even seemingly clean clothes can harbor oils and residues that attract moths and can lead to fabric degradation over time.
USE ACID-FREE MATERIALS
Store your vintage garments in our storage boxes or wrap them in acid-free tissue paper to prevent fabric yellowing and degradation caused by acidic materials. This is especially important for delicate or light-coloured fabrics.
AVOID ATTIC OR BASEMENT STORAGE
Store your vintage garments in a stable, cool, and dry environment. Avoid storing them in attics or basements where temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause damage. A wardrobe or a dedicated storage chest in a climate-controlled room is ideal.
REGULAR INSPECTIONS
Even when stored properly, it’s important to inspect your vintage garments periodically. Check for signs of moth activity, fabric weakening, or any other issues that may arise over time.
ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR VINTAGE GARMENT CARE
- Steam with Care: If your garment is wrinkled, use a steamer on a low setting. Ironing can be harsh on vintage fabrics, so if you must iron, use a low heat setting and place a cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid direct heat.
- Scented Sachets for Freshness: Keep your stored garments smelling fresh with our scented sachets. These not only impart a pleasant fragrance but also help repel moths with their blend of essential oils.
- Specialist Care for Special Pieces: For particularly valuable or fragile items, consider professional storage or care. Our sister company, Total Wardrobe Storage, offers specialised storage solutions for your most precious vintage garments.
PREPARING FOR GOODWOOD REVIVAL
As you prepare for the Goodwood Revival, taking the time to repair, protect, and properly store your vintage garments will ensure they remain in beautiful condition for years to come. At Total Wardrobe Care, we offer a wide range of products designed specifically to preserve the quality of vintage and delicate clothing. From moth protection to clothing storage, we have everything you need to keep your wardrobe pristine.
For more detailed advice or to browse our full range of products, visit our website or contact us directly. With the right care, your vintage garments will turn heads at the Goodwood Revival and for many years to come!
