Since announcing our relaunch and expansion in the SOSNU Co. (include link to sign up) monthly newsletter, I’ve received several questions regarding our transition into retail along with balancing the blog content and my freelance fashion work. So I figured it would be a nice idea to come here, and share one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned thus far.
Initially, we shared our idea to start an online sales portion of the company with a few family and friends.. Without question, they all began to shower us with overwhelming amounts of inventory. Some good, and some not so good. Clothes, shoes, and accessories had amassed in every corner of the studio, and we had to do major streamlining, pulling only the best quality pieces. So my first priority quickly to determine if the pieces were in tip-top shape, and could actually be resold. My job became ensuring that we had the best and most unique vintage and thrifted secondhand merchandise available.
So the process started with restoring, repairing and learning to maintain the essence and beauty of these vintage and pre-loved clothing. I forced myself to learn several tips and tricks about caring for the one of a kind pieces.
Washing
After purchasing or acquiring a vintage or thrifted piece, I would recommend some method of cleaning, either washing or dry clean. However, I would never wash embroidered silks or satins. If you opt to machine wash a piece, do so at a lower temp to prolong the life of the garment, and do so less often. Vigorous washing can damage the fibers of the clothes. If the fabric is very old, delicate or pre-1960s vintage, consider hand washing or not washing the garment at all. Most times a good airing out will remove odors.
After washing, hang wet garments to prevent stretching it out of shape. If possible dry your vintage flat on a towel. If you want to dry clean specialty vintage items that are durable enough for it, then use a reputable dry cleaner.
Storage
Try to keep your vintage and thrifted clothes in a dry, dust-free, fur-free place away from direct sunlight. Humidity and dampness tend to damage delicate fibers, and sunlight can fade vintage prints and colors. Store clothing in breathable, cloth garment bags. Hang your vintage clothes on wooden hangers, or for best protection, cloth-covered padded hangers.
Maintaining - Preventative maintenance
Don’t wear vintage consecutively. Allow the pieces to breathe, air out and restore itself. Repair small rips and tears immediately. They will definitely get bigger and pose a larger problem.
information source: beyond retro