How to Care for Tailored Clothing So It Lasts a Lifetime
Every perfectly tailored garment tells a story — of craftsmanship, precision, and care. Whether it’s a sharply fitted blazer, a custom dress, or trousers altered to perfection, your tailored clothing deserves the same attention after it leaves the sewing table. At The Hem House here in Kamloops, we believe clothing maintenance is an art in itself. With the right habits, you can extend the life of your bespoke and altered pieces for decades to come — keeping every seam and silhouette as polished as the day it was made.
1. Give Your Clothes a Break (Yes, Really)
Wearing your favourite suit or dress day after day might feel tempting, but fabric fibers need rest just like we do. Overuse without proper airing out can cause unnecessary strain on seams and shape retention.
After each wear, hang your tailored clothing on a sturdy, shaped hanger to let it breathe. Natural air circulation helps release wrinkles and moisture, keeping the structure intact. A simple rotation system — alternating between outfits — can make all the difference in your clothing maintenance routine.
Pro tip: If you live in Kamloops or anywhere with fluctuating climates, give wool and silk garments extra downtime. These natural fibers are sensitive to humidity and benefit from rest between wears.
2. Invest in Proper Storage
Think of your closet as a wardrobe spa. Tailored pieces thrive in environments that are clean, cool, and dry.
Use wooden or padded hangers to preserve shoulder shape. Store suits and coats in breathable garment bags rather than plastic, which traps moisture and can lead to mildew. When it comes to trousers, hang them by the cuff or waistband using clip hangers with felt lining to avoid marks.
If you’re short on closet space (as many downtown Kamloops apartment dwellers are), prioritize hanging your most structured garments — like jackets and dresses — while folding knits and casual pieces neatly. Tailored clothing care begins with respecting each fabric’s structure.
3. Steam, Don’t Iron (Most of the Time)
Ironing can be harsh on fine tailoring, especially around seams and darts. Excessive heat can distort shape and crush fibers. Steaming, however, is your best friend for clothing maintenance.
A handheld steamer relaxes wrinkles gently without flattening the garment’s natural drape. Just hold the steamer a few inches away and glide slowly. If you must iron, always use a pressing cloth and low-to-medium heat.
At The Hem House, we often see garments that have lost their crispness due to over-ironing — especially along lapels or hems. A professional press can often restore these areas, but prevention is always better than repair.
4. Handle Cleaning with Care
When it comes to tailored clothing care, less is more — especially with dry cleaning. Over-cleaning can break down natural fibers and fade dyes. Instead, spot clean where possible using a damp cloth and mild detergent, and only dry-clean when truly necessary.
For suits or formalwear, every 3–4 wears is typically sufficient. Afterward, air them out before storing. Always remove items from dry-cleaning bags immediately to prevent trapped chemicals from damaging the fabric.
If you’re unsure whether to wash or clean professionally, bring your garment to The Hem House for advice. We can assess the construction and lining to help you make the safest choice.
5. Schedule Regular Alterations & Tune-Ups
Just like a fine instrument, tailored garments need tuning. Over time, bodies change, fabrics relax, and seams shift. Small issues like a loose hem or gaping waistband can quickly become major repairs if ignored.
Booking an annual alteration check — or a “clothing tune-up” — ensures your favourite pieces continue to fit perfectly. Here in Kamloops, we often help clients refresh long-loved suits and dresses rather than replacing them. It’s sustainable, stylish, and far more cost-effective.
Even if you’ve moved across Canada, a reputable tailor near you can maintain the craftsmanship started here at The Hem House. A quick adjustment or reinforcement stitch today can save your garment tomorrow.
💡 Did You Know?
Clothing that fits well naturally wears less. Poorly fitted garments experience friction in all the wrong places — along shoulders, waistlines, and inner thighs — leading to premature thinning or tearing. So, one of the best alterations tips we can offer is this: fit equals longevity. Whether you’ve gained a few pounds, changed styles, or just want a sharper silhouette, regular tailoring keeps your pieces looking newer, longer.
6. Handle Seasonal Storage the Right Way
When the Kamloops summer heat fades and it’s time to pack away lighter fabrics, take a few extra steps. Clean garments before storing to remove invisible oils (they attract moths). Fold with acid-free tissue between layers, and store in breathable cotton bins or bags. Avoid attic or basement storage, where temperature swings can damage fibers.
Before the next season begins, pull everything out for a quick inspection. If something feels tight or loose, it’s a perfect moment to stop by The Hem House for a quick alteration or restyle before the new season begins.
Conclusion: Keep It Tailored, Keep It Timeless
Tailored clothing care isn’t about fuss — it’s about respect. Every hem, dart, and hand stitch tells a story of skill and intention. By treating your wardrobe with the same thoughtfulness that went into its creation, you’ll enjoy garments that feel luxurious for decades.
At The Hem House, we help you preserve your pieces through expert alterations, clothing maintenance consultations, and even one-on-one sewing classes so you can learn the craft yourself. Whether you’re in Kamloops or elsewhere in Canada, your clothes deserve a lifetime of care — and we’re here to make that happen.
Book your next fitting, consultation, or alteration today. Let’s make your wardrobe last a lifetime.