Your Artistic Draped Strapless Wedding Dress is a one-of-a-kind garment, crafted with precision and artistry. Follow these guidelines to preserve its beauty for years to come.
1. Handling
- Always handle the dress with clean, dry hands to avoid transferring oils or dirt.
- Avoid pulling or stretching the strapless bodice or draped areas as this could affect the structure and fabric.
- When trying on or wearing the dress, step into it carefully rather than pulling it over your head, which could stress the draped design or bodice.
2. Storage
- Hanging: Store your dress on a padded hanger, using the loops inside the dress (often found at the waist or side seams) to bear the weight of the garment. This will prevent stretching at the bodice, particularly since it’s strapless.
- Garment Bag: Keep the dress in a breathable garment bag (cotton or muslin) to protect it from dust, moisture, and light. Avoid using plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause damage.
- Flat Storage: For long-term storage, consider laying the dress flat, especially if the draping is intricate or heavy, to prevent sagging.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing or fading.
3. Cleaning
- Professional Dry Cleaning: Always have the dress professionally dry cleaned by a cleaner who specializes in wedding gowns. Be sure to inform them of the specific fabrics, draping details, and any embellishments.
- Avoid at-home cleaning methods like machine washing, hand washing, or spot cleaning, as this can distort the draping or damage the fabric.
4. Stain Removal
- For minor stains, blot gently with a clean, white cloth—never rub, as this could spread the stain or harm the fabric.
- If a significant stain occurs (such as from makeup or food), seek professional cleaning immediately to avoid setting the stain.
5. Ironing and Steaming
- Steaming: To remove wrinkles, use a handheld steamer on the lowest setting, keeping it at least 6-8 inches from the fabric. Steaming works best for maintaining the draped effect without direct pressure from an iron.
- Avoid Ironing: Do not directly iron the dress, especially on the bodice and draped areas, as the heat can weaken or warp the fabric.
- Shower Steam: Alternatively, you can hang the dress in a bathroom with a hot shower running (without the dress getting wet) to allow the steam to naturally smooth out wrinkles.
6. Bodice Care (Strapless)
- Ensure that the bodice, often fitted and structured in strapless designs, retains its shape. Do not hang the dress from the bodice to avoid stretching the fabric or weakening any boning or structure.
- After wearing, have the bodice cleaned by a professional, especially if there are any signs of perspiration or makeup stains.
7. After the Wedding
- Have the dress cleaned by a professional as soon as possible to prevent long-term damage from stains or perspiration.
- For preservation, have the dress stored in an acid-free preservation box with tissue paper to prevent yellowing. Be sure the dress is laid flat, and the box is stored in a cool, dry environment away from humidity and heat.
By following these care instructions, your Artistic Draped Strapless Wedding Dress will stay as beautiful as the day you wore it, ready for future generations to admire or for you to cherish as a keepsake.