Vintage is made to be worn and enjoyed. With a little considered care, your pieces can become part of your everyday wardrobe rather than something kept only for special occasions.
We clean and repair each piece where needed before it reaches you, so everything is ready to wear when it arrives. From there, a little extra care will help preserve its character and keep it looking its best.
Victorian & Edwardian pieces
Antique clothing is often extremely fragile. Fabrics such as silk, lace, chiffon, cotton and velvet can weaken naturally over time, even when a garment looks beautiful and wearable.
Do not machine wash antique clothing
Avoid washing fine silks or wools - these do best steamed.
Spot clean gently with distilled water and a soft cloth if needed.
Cotton undergarments with delicate lace or embroidery should be hand washed with a delicate or no-rinse detergent and air-dried.
Avoid wringing — gently press out water by rolling the item in a towel.
1920s - 1940s
Pieces from this era can be particularly delicate due to their age. Handle them gently and avoid unnecessary washing.
Hand wash only if necessary — these pieces are often over 90 years old, so gentle handling is especially important.
A gentle steam is best for sanitising.
Handle silk, lace, chiffon and beading with particular care.
Avoid soaking older silks and rayon.
If hand washing, use lukewarm water with a delicate or no-rinse detergent. Avoid wringing — gently press out water by rolling the item in a towel.
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Allow to air dry naturally.
1950s - 1960s
1950s evening and occasion dresses can be incredibly delicate, particularly when made from silk, tulle, chiffon or fine net. Age can make these fabrics more fragile, so gentle handling is essential.
Take care around bags, rings and sharp accessories that can catch on tulle.
Never force old zips, hooks or fastenings - these can be very delicate.
Avoid washing machines and tumble dryers.
Follow original care label where available.
Hand wash only, use lukewarm water with a delicate or no-rinse detergent.
Avoid wringing or scrubbing.
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Allow to air dry naturally.
A gentle steam is best for sanitising.
1960s - 1980s
Fabrics such as cotton blends, nylon, and polyester can usually be hand washed in cool water with a mild non-bio detergent.
Rinse thoroughly, reshape, and air-dry.
Sturdy cottons and most post-1960s synthetics can be machine washed on a delicate cycle.
Follow original care label where available.
Vintage Fur Care Guide
Vintage fur is a natural material that needs a little extra care. With the right storage and handling, a well-maintained fur coat can be enjoyed for many years.
Treat vintage fur gently.
Keep it cool, dry, ventilated and away from heat, moisture and pressure. Never attempt to wash, repair or condition vintage fur yourself.
A little care goes a long way in preserving a beautiful vintage piece.
After Receiving your fur
Fur can become slightly flattered or compressed during postage, especially when packing in a box. this is completely normal and doesn't mean the fur has been damaged.
Once your fur arrives remove it from the packaging as soon as possible and hang it on a sturdy hanger in a cool, dry place with plenty of open air.
allow the fur to breathe for around 2-3 days. this gives the fur time to naturally relax and return to its natural plushness. Mink in particular can be soft and flat from being compressed during postage, but will usually regain its fullness with time.
Avoid steaming, blow drying or applying heat to the fur. Let it recover naturally.
Wearing your fur
Avoid wearing fur in heavy rain or snow whenever possible.
Keep away from excessive heat, radiators and fireplaces.
Avoid wearing cross body or shoulder bags over the fur, as they can crush and rub the hairs.
Be careful with jewellery, pins and sharp accessories that may catch the fur or lining.
Allow perfume, hairspray and other products to dry before putting your coat on.
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause fading and deterioration.
If your fur gets wet
Don’t panic - light rain is usually not a disaster.
Shake the coat gently to remove excess water.
Hang it on a wide, sturdy padded hanger.
Allow it to dry naturally in a cool, well-ventilated room.
Keep it away from radiators, hairdryers and other direct heat.
Never tumble dry or use a hairdryer on fur.
Once completely dry, gently shake the coat to restore the hairs.
For heavy soaking, take it to a specialist furrier or fur cleaner.
Storage
Storage is one of the most important parts of fur care.
Store somewhere cool, dark and well ventilated.
Use a broad, padded hanger to support the shoulders.
Give the coat plenty of room - don’t squash it between other clothes.
Use a breathable cotton garment bag, never airtight plastic.
Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
For long-term storage, professional cold fur storage can be considered.
Moths & Pests
Natural fur can attract clothes moths and other pests.
Regularly inspect the coat and surrounding wardrobe.
Keep the storage area clean.
Don’t allow the coat to become damp.
If you suspect moth activity, isolate the garment and seek specialist advice.
Cleaning
Never put a fur coat in a normal washing machine or take it to a standard dry cleaner without checking first.
Fur should be cleaned by a specialist fur cleaner who understands natural fur and vintage garments.
Avoid household stain removers, bleach and harsh chemicals.