Silk

Luxurious and delicate, our silk styles embody elegance and sophistication. Silk is a natural protein fibre, traditionally made from the cocoons of silkworms. It has been prized for centuries, notably by ancient Chinese dynasties, for its lustrous texture and rich history in fine textiles. Silk fabrics are lightweight, breathable, and have a natural sheen, making them a timeless choice for special occasions or adding a touch of luxury to everyday wear.

Silk’s natural properties make it resistant to wrinkles and it drapes beautifully on the body. However, its delicate nature means it requires careful handling. Here’s a guide on how to wash and care for your silk garments to ensure they maintain their beauty and softness over time.


HOW TO WASH, DRY, AND IRON SILK

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

HAND WASHING
Hand washing is the gentlest method to clean silk and is recommended over machine washing.

STEP 1
Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

STEP 2
Submerge the silk item and gently swirl it in the water. Avoid scrubbing or wringing, as this can damage the fibres.

STEP 3
Rinse the garment in cool water until all detergent is removed. To retain the silk’s natural sheen, you can add a few drops of white vinegar to the rinse water.

MACHINE WASHING
If you must machine wash silk, follow these steps carefully.

STEP 1
Always refer to the care label for guidance and select the delicate or silk cycle on your machine.

STEP 2
Place the silk garment in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from snagging or stretching.

STEP 3
Use a gentle detergent and wash in cold water on a short, delicate cycle.

DRYING
Silk is delicate and should never be wrung out to remove excess water.

STEP 1
After washing, lay the silk garment flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel with the garment inside to gently press out water.

STEP 2
Unroll the towel and reshape the garment if necessary. Lay it flat on another dry towel to air dry away from direct sunlight.

STEP 3
Avoid hanging silk, as this can cause the fabric to stretch out of shape. Never tumble dry silk, as the heat can damage the fibres and cause shrinkage.

 

IRONING
Silk’s delicate nature means it requires careful ironing.

STEP 1
Check the care label for guidance on ironing temperature. If ironing is allowed, use the lowest heat setting on your iron, ideally labeled “silk” or “delicate.”

STEP 2
Iron the silk while it is still slightly damp. Place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to prevent heat damage and avoid direct contact with the silk.

STEP 3
Iron the garment on the reverse side to protect the fabric’s surface and prevent any shine or damage from the iron.


With proper care, your silk garments will remain as elegant and luxurious as the day you first wore them. Treat them with the care they deserve, and they’ll continue to be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.

August 10, 2024 — Sara Nadeem