For South African vintage lovers and savvy thrift shoppers, the allure of luxury preloved fashion is undeniable. To keep these cherished pieces looking their best, we've compiled a list of essential tips for caring for your vintage clothing, shoes and jackets at home.

Tips to Wash, Store, and Care for Your Vintage Clothes:

• Handle with Care:

• Gently hand wash your vintage clothes to preserve delicate fabrics and intricate designs.
• Use mild detergent and cold water to protect fibers and colours.

• Tackling Stubborn Stains:

• Treat stains on clothing and jackets with care using a solution of water and white vinegar.
• For oil-based stains, apply cornstarch or talcum powder before washing.

• Gentle Drying:
• Air-dry your vintage clothes and jackets away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Allow sufficient space during drying to avoid wrinkles.

• Wrinkle Control:

• Use a handheld steamer for slightly wrinkled vintage clothes or iron on low heat, inside out.

• Thoughtful Storage:
• Store vintage garments in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space.
• Preserve clothing shape with acid-free tissue paper, and fold heavy fabrics flat.

Additional Care Tips:

• Vintage Boots and Shoes:

• Wipe vintage shoes clean with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust.
• Apply a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and prevent cracking.
• Store your vintage shoes with shoe trees to maintain their form and prevent creasing.

• Vintage Leather Jackets:

• Spot clean vintage jackets with a soft, damp cloth to remove stains.
• Apply a leather conditioner to keep the jacket soft and moisturized.
• Avoid exposing leather jackets to direct sunlight for prolonged periods to prevent fading.

• Vintage Denim:

• Turn your vintage denim jeans and jackets inside out before washing to protect the colour.
• Use a gentle detergent to preserve the fabric's texture.
• Avoid using bleach on vintage denim as it can weaken the fibers. 

By following these essential tips, your vintage treasures will remain a part of your sustainable closet for years to come. You can also pop into our store at 114 Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town for additional advice and tips.

Happy vintage styling!