Sharara suit, a timeless piece of festive wear for women, holds a special place in our wardrobes. With its flared pants, intricate embroidery, and flowing dupatta, the suit set exudes a sense of grace and grandeur. It’s no wonder that this traditional outfit is a go-to choice for weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. However, like any cherished outfit, this suit requires proper care to maintain its beauty and elegance.
Imagine stepping into a festive gathering, draped in your favourite sharara suit, only to realise that the once-vibrant colours have faded, the delicate embroidery is fraying, or the fabric has lost its sheen. It’s a nightmare that no one wants to experience, especially when you’ve invested in such a stunning piece of attire. The good news is, with a bit of attention and some thoughtful care, you can keep your sharara suit looking as fresh and elegant as the day you bought it.
1. Understanding Fabric and Embellishments
First step in caring for your sharara suit is understanding its fabric and embellishments. Sharara suits are often made from delicate fabrics like silk, georgette, or chiffon, as they may feature intricate embroidery, sequins, or beads. Each of these materials requires specific care to avoid damage.
- Silk: This luxurious fabric is prone to staining and should be handled with care. Always opt for dry cleaning to preserve its shine and softness.
- Georgette and Chiffon: These lightweight fabrics can be hand-washed, but using a mild detergent and cold water is crucial. Avoid wringing the fabric to prevent wrinkles.
- Embellishments: Embellishments such as sequins and beads are often hand-stitched, making them vulnerable to damage. When cleaning, be extra gentle around these areas, and consider spot cleaning to avoid disturbing the decorations.
2. Proper Storage to Maintain Shape and Shine
Storing your sharara suit correctly is key to maintaining its shape and shine. Improper storage can lead to fabric creases, colour fading, and even damage to the embellishments.
- For heavily embroidered sharara suits, folding is better, as hanging can cause the fabric to stretch and lose its shape over time. However, if you do hang your suit, use padded hangers to prevent the fabric from slipping or getting indented.
- Use breathable fabric bags to store your sharara suit. Avoid plastic covers as they can trap moisture, leading to mildew and fabric damage. Fabric bags allow air circulation while protecting the garment from dust.
- The dupatta, often made of delicate materials like net or chiffon, should be stored separately to prevent it from getting tangled or damaged by the heavier parts of the suit.
3. Cleaning Tips
Proper cleaning is crucial to maintaining the beauty. However, a cleaning method should be chosen based on the fabric and the extent of wear.
- Dry Cleaning: For silk or heavily embellished sharara suits, dry cleaning is the safest option.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, spot cleaning with a mild detergent can be effective. Always test the detergent on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
- Hand Washing: You must wash your sharara suit at home. Do so with cold water and a gentle detergent. Avoid scrubbing the fabric, especially around the embellishments. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residues, and lay the garment flat to dry.
4. Ironing and Steaming
Ironing or steaming your sharara suit requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the fabric.
Always iron on a low heat setting, and use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric. Avoid direct contact with the iron for embellished areas to prevent melting or damage.
Steaming is an excellent alternative to ironing, especially for delicate fabrics like chiffon or silk. It helps remove wrinkles without the risk of burning or damaging the fabric. Hold the steamer at a safe distance from the cloth to avoid water spots.
5. Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Exposure to Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause colours to fade. Store your sharara suit in a cool, dark place and avoid drying it in the sun.
- Overloading the Washing Machine: Never overload the machine if you choose to machine wash. The fabric can get twisted or pulled, leading to tears and damage.
- Ignoring Stains: Address stains immediately. The longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove, and it can even become permanent.
Summing Up
By properly caring for your sharara suit, you not only preserve its beauty but also honour the craftsmanship and cultural significance it represents. With these essential care tips, your sharara suit for women will continue to be a shining star in your wardrobe, ready to dazzle at every occasion.
