A bespoke suit is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, tailored exclusively for your body and style preferences. Such a piece of clothing not only boosts your confidence but also stands as a testament to your personal taste. To ensure its longevity and maintain its pristine look, proper care is essential. Here are some guidelines to help you look after your bespoke suit.
1. Wear with Care
• Rotate Your Suits: Don’t wear the same suit consecutively for days. Give it time to breathe and recover its shape. Ideally, have a rotation of suits to avoid excessive wear on any single one.
• Be Mindful of Physical Activities: Avoid sitting for extended periods or participating in activities that might strain the seams. If you must sit, ensure to unbutton the jacket to reduce stress on the buttons and fabric.
2. Storage
• Use the Right Hanger: Always hang your suit on a broad-shouldered, wooden hanger. This helps maintain its shape and allows the fabric to breathe.
• Protect from Dust: Use a suit bag to shield your suit from dust and moths. However, don’t store your suit in plastic, as it needs ventilation.
• Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Store your suit in a dark closet to prevent fading and deterioration of the fabric.
3. Cleaning
• Avoid Frequent Dry Cleaning: Excessive dry cleaning can deteriorate the fabric and affect its sheen. Clean your bespoke suit only when it’s visibly dirty or has odors. For minor spots, consider spot cleaning.
• Brush Regularly: Use a suit brush after each wear to remove dust, dirt, and lint. This not only keeps the suit clean but also rejuvenates the fabric fibers.
• Steam, Don’t Iron: Steaming is gentler on your suit than ironing. It helps remove wrinkles without the risk of scorching or pressing shiny marks onto the fabric.
4. Handling Stains
• Act Quickly: If you spill something on your suit, blot it gently with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible. Avoid rubbing, as it might push the stain deeper into the fabric.
• Consult Professionals: For stubborn stains, it’s best to take your suit to a reputable dry cleaner who has experience with bespoke suits.
5. Traveling with Your Suit
• Use a Garment Bag: When traveling, pack your suit in a garment bag to protect it from dirt and wrinkles.
• Roll, Don’t Fold: If you have to pack your suit in a suitcase, gently roll it rather than folding. Upon arrival, hang it up immediately to allow wrinkles to drop out naturally.
6. Seasonal Storage
• Moth Prevention: Store your suits with natural repellents like cedar balls or lavender sachets to prevent moth damage.
• Air Out: Before storing suits for an extended period (like at the change of seasons), air them out to ensure they’re free from moisture.
7. Alterations
• Trust Experts: If your suit needs alterations, always go back to the tailor who made it or a reputable one who understands bespoke suits. They will ensure the alterations maintain the original integrity and fit of the suit.
In Conclusion
A bespoke suit is an investment in quality, style, and personal branding. With the right care, it can serve you well for many years, aging gracefully and always making a statement. The extra attention you give to its care will ensure it remains a cherished part of your wardrobe.