Caring for your festive wear after the occasion
As we celebrate the festive season in India, excitement and joy fills the air. From Dussehra
to Diwali, Navaratri to Karva Chauth, the country is ablaze with celebrations. Men deck
themselves out in elegant traditional attire, from dhotis and kurtas to sherwanis and
bandhgalas, to participate in these colorful and culturally rich festivities. But what
happens to these gorgeous outfits after the festival has come and gone? Proper care is
essential to ensure your festive wear retains its beauty and stays ready for the next
celebration.
Immediate Care Post-Festivities
Once the festivities are over, don’t simply toss your festive attire in the back of the closet. If your outfit is heavily embellished or made of delicate fabrics like silk or brocade, it’s wise to take it to a professional dry cleaner. Dry cleaning ensures the removal of stains and prevents the fabric from developing musty odors. For simpler cotton or linen outfits, a gentle hand wash is sufficient. Use a mild detergent and cold water to remove any stains. Be gentle when scrubbing, especially if the attire has intricate embroidery or delicate embellishments.
Storing Festive Wear
After cleaning, it’s time to store your festive wear properly to prevent it from losing its sheen and color. Invest in breathable garment bags or fabric covers to protect your outfits from dust, light, and insects. Avoid using plastic covers, as they can trap moisture, potentially leading to mold growth. To keep moths and insects at bay, place cedar blocks or naphthalene balls in the storage area. Make sure they do not come into direct contact with your clothing to prevent any odor transfer.
Revisiting Your Festive Attire
Whether it’s the following year’s celebrations or an impromptu family gathering, your festive wear should be ready for you at a moment’s notice. Before wearing, inspect your festive attire for any signs of damage, loose threads, or stains. Address any issues promptly to avoid further deterioration. If your attire is wrinkled or has lost its crispness, use a garment steamer or iron to rejuvenate it. Use the appropriate setting for the fabric type and be cautious around delicate embellishments.
Long-term Storage
For those outfits that you might not wear for an extended period, place moistureabsorbing pouches or silica gel packs inside the storage bags to maintain the ideal humidity level and protect against moisture-related damage. Periodically take out your festive wear and refold it to prevent creases from setting in. This also gives you an opportunity to inspect it for any potential issues.
Remember that proper care is an investment in your festive wear. With the right precautions and attention to detail, your Indian festival attire will continue to shine and be an essential part of your cultural celebrations for many years to come. Our traditional festival wear is more than just clothing; it’s a reflection of our cultural heritage and a symbol of the joy and togetherness that festivals bring. By taking care of these outfits with love and attention, you not only preserve their beauty but also create lasting memories for generations to come. So, after the festivities have ended, don’t forget to wrap your festive wear in care, ensuring that the spirit of celebration lives on!
