Outerwear is your first line of defense during the colder months. Designed for protection and movement, these pieces are built to be worn on repeat. While they are crafted to last, thoughtful care ensures your wool, cotton, or technical fabrics age beautifully and perform season after season.
CLEANING
Minimal & Only As Needed
Outerwear doesn’t need frequent washing. In fact, over-washing can shorten the lifespan of heavier fabrics, reduce weather resistance, and lead to wear and tear.
First and foremost, it’s important to check care labels before cleaning to use the appropriate method if needed. Before that, you can air garments out between wears.
Spot-cleaning If there’s one spill or stain, spot-clean the piece accordingly instead of washing the entire garment.
Washing If the garment allows, follow instructions and employ this method as little as possible.
Dry-cleaning For larger outerwear pieces, dry cleaning your garment just once or twice a season is usually sufficient
DRYING
Patience Preserves
Whether part of the cleaning process or due to weather, drying your garments properly is crucial.
Air-drying is the best method and you’ll want a dry, well-ventilated location away from direct sunlight and or heat.
Avoid: + Artificial heat to speed up the process → Will damage certain fabrics and finishes + Tumble-drying if possible → unless the care tag allows
MAINTENANCE
Upkeep & Catching Things Early
Treat stains and marks as soon as possible, to avoid setting.
At home + Blot, don’t rub + Use mild soap or detergent and cold water with a soft sponge or cloth
Seeking outside help For persistent marks, consult a professional cleaner to prevent damage.
Another condition to watch out for is sun bleaching/sun fading, when UV rays break down the chemical bonds in fabrics, causing them to fade and weaken over time. Dark colors, natural materials, and natural dyes are unfortunately particularly susceptible.
REPAIR
Mend Before It Grows
With all garments, especially well-loved pieces, signs of wear over time are natural. Addressing minor issues right away prevents them from turning into larger issues and so a quick mend can extend the life of your piece for seasons and on.
A few examples + Loose seams or buttons + Small snag or tears in lining or seams + Friction heavy area wear and tear (pockets, cuffs, etc.)
For more complex repairs, trusted local tailors can help preserve the shape and function of your garment. Consider repair not just as maintenance, but as a continuation of the story your outerwear is telling and your journey together.
STORAGE
Protection Is Key
Outerwear can lose shape or deteriorate if not stored with care.
For general storage Air your coats out after wearing, and hang on sturdy with shaped shoulders to reduce distortion and stretching from the weight of the coat.
For long term storage Clean or launder your coats before storing them away for the season and make sure to check all the pockets first too. Whether hanging or folded, you’ll need a breathable garment cover or bag. It’s always nice to include anti-moth sachets like cedar and lavender to protect natural fibers from pests during long term storage as well.
Avoid: + Wire hangers → Will warp over time and not provide enough support + Plastic containers → Not breathable for garments and could risk mold in certain atmospheric conditions
Most outerwear requires minimal upkeep, but how you store your layers between wears and seasons makes all the difference. By following these care steps, you can ensure your most dependable pieces continue to support your daily rhythm through cold, wet, and unpredictable weather.
