Page 27 - HFHB - Magazine

out, layered differently! • I experiment with accessories. A dainty
necklace or cocktail ring can instantly update an outfit.
• I search my wardrobe and all the other places that I store clothes.
Sometimes a piece of clothing that has fallen from the hanger to the

floor, and which I’ve completely forgotten about, is suddenly my new
staple.

3. Buy Quality

If you do decide that some new clothes are in order, it’s recommended

that you look beyond the brand and assess the garment on its

merits. To assess the quality of a garment, consider:
• Its sturdiness – will it keep its shape after 30 or so washes?
• How it falls on the body - does it flatter your shape?
• Comfort – nothing should be too tight, nor should it be scratchy.
• Whether it looks expensive – this is mostly to do with fabric
quality. The most affordable materials that look expensive include
linen, cotton and faux suede. It’s advisable to steer clear of Rayon and
Acrylic. Polyester should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

4. Care for Your Existing Items

You can extend the life of an item by looking after it
meticulously. (Thereby avoiding the situation where a garment looks
amazing when you try it on in the store but doesn’t look quite the same
a few weeks in) Here are some ideas on how to care for your clothing:
• Wash and dry inside out.
• Store Clothes Properly. Wool knits and jumpers should be folded and

stacked. Other clothes should be hung on good quality hangers (not
the thin wire ones).
• Do up buttons and zips before you wash.
• Use a cold wash, rather than warm wash, whenever you can.
• Hang indoors to dry. Whilst sunlight is a great disinfectant it also fades
clothing more quickly.
• Spot clean more often. Some items (like t-shirts) needs to be washed
every time after use. But other items like jackets, or garments made of
stiffer material, don’t need to be washed each and every time; instead

try spot cleaning.

Most of all dress for joy. Have fun with your wardrobe. Play with
colours and textures. Dressing in a way that feels like you is a beautiful
form of self-expression.

Article submitted by Viv De los Reyes of Parenthesis Design