At Athena Newton Designs, we believe in investing in timeless style that lasts. Our pieces are crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous construction, designed to be cherished for years to come. But even the most well-made garments require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. This post is your guide to extending the life of your Athena Newton pieces, ensuring they remain staples in your wardrobe for seasons to come.

The Importance of Garment Care

Proper garment care isn't just about keeping your clothes looking their best; it's also a crucial component of sustainable fashion. By caring for your clothes, you extend their lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing textile waste. This aligns perfectly with our philosophy of "buy less, choose well," encouraging conscious consumption and a more sustainable approach to fashion.

Washing Wisdom: Gentle Care for Lasting Wear

Washing your clothes correctly is essential for preserving their quality. We recommend checking the care label on each garment for specific instructions. However, some general guidelines apply to most Athena Newton pieces:

• Cold Water is Key: Cold water is gentler on fabrics, preventing shrinking, fading, and damage. It also saves energy! Always opt for cold water washing, even if the label suggests warm water.  

• Delicate Wash vs. Handwash: Many modern washing machines have a "delicate" or "handwash" cycle, which can often be sufficient. The Hand Wash cycle is best for fragile items like wool or embellished fabrics, as it uses minimal agitation. The Delicate cycle is great for machine-washable delicate fabrics such as silks or wool, offering a gentler wash than a regular cycle. If you’re unsure, handwashing in cool water with a mild detergent is always a safe option, especially for very precious garments.  

• The Dryer: A Garment's Worst Enemy: Avoid the dryer whenever possible. Frequent dryer use can significantly shorten the lifespan of clothing compared to air drying. The high heat can cause shrinking, warping, and damage to delicate fabrics. Yes, clothes dryers can be bad for the environment because they use a lot of energy and release pollutants into the air. Instead, air-dry your clothes by laying them flat on a clean towel or hanging them on a padded hanger.  

• Steam Power: A steamer is a must-have for any wardrobe. It's a gentle and effective way to remove wrinkles without the harshness of ironing. Steaming also helps to refresh garments between washes.  

Caring for Your Athena Newton Favorites:

Let's take a closer look at caring for some of our key pieces:

• The Cotton Smock Blouse: This versatile piece is a wardrobe essential. To keep your cotton smock blouse looking its best, we recommend machine washing in cold water on the delicate cycle. Reshape it while damp and lay it flat to dry. A light steam can help smooth out any wrinkles. Proper care will ensure your smock blouse retains its shape and softness for years to come.  

• The Wide Leg Silk Pants: Effortless elegance meets easy care! Our wide leg silk pants are machine washable (delicate cycle, cold water) and surprisingly wrinkle-resistant. Air drying is still recommended to preserve the silk's luster.

• The Relaxed Fit Linen Pants: Perfect for everyday wear, our relaxed fit linen pants are also machine washable (cold water). Linen's natural texture means minor wrinkles are part of its charm, but a quick steam can easily smooth them out. These pants offer both comfort and convenience.  

Storage Solutions: Keeping Your Classics Pristine

Proper storage is just as important as washing. Here are a few tips to keep your Athena Newton pieces in top condition:

• Clean Before Storing: Always wash or dry clean your garments before storing them for an extended period. This prevents moths and other pests from damaging the fabric.

• Proper Hangers: Use padded hangers for dresses and tops to maintain their shape. Avoid wire hangers, which can cause dents and snags.

• Breathable Storage: Store your clothes in breathable garment bags or boxes to protect them from dust and light. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.  

Looking Ahead: Made-to-Order Coming Soon

We're always striving to offer our customers the best possible experience. We are considering a made-to-order service on our site in the future, allowing you to acquire truly personalized Athena Newton pieces. Stay tuned for more information on this exciting development!

Essential Tools for Garment Care:

• Tide Stain Pen: My absolute favorite for tackling those unexpected spills! It’s a lifesaver.

• Wrinkle Release: For quick wrinkle removal between washes, I recommend The Laundress Wrinkle Release. A more budget-friendly option is Downy Wrinkle Release Spray.

• Steamer: As mentioned earlier, a steamer is a must-have for refreshing clothes and removing wrinkles gently. My personal favorite is the Electrolux Portable Handheld Garment and Fabric Steamer.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your Athena Newton pieces remain timeless treasures in your wardrobe for years to come. We believe in investing in quality over quantity, and by caring for your classics, you're not only making a sustainable choice but also preserving the beauty and longevity of your cherished garments.