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Wedding Planning > Wedding
Fashion
Tips
on Preserving Your
Wedding Gown (Cont.)
-
All
shoulder pads, perspiration shields, and anything else made of foam
should be removed from the gown. These materials don't have a good
shelf life, and when they deteriorate, they can ruin the material next
to them.
-
Also,
avoid packing your gown with plastic or metal buttons, pins or
buckles. You should NEVER keep mothballs or crystals near your gown,
since the chemicals in these products can ruin the fabric over time.
The gown may be wrapped in muslin and folded neatly into a cardboard
box.
-
Never
hang your wedding gown for long-term storage and never seal the box
completely. The gown will need proper air circulation. Once your gown
is cleaned and boxed, store it in a closet or under a bed.
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Don't
put the gown in a hot attic or a cold basement. Extreme temperature
changes can also damage your gown.
-
Don't
be afraid to take your gown out of the box and look at it from time to
time. That way, you'll be sure the most important dress of your life
is successfully standing the test of time. The gown should be refolded
to prevent permanent creases and white cotton gloves should be worn
while handling the gown to prevent oily fingers from making contact
with the fabric.
-
The
cost of professionally cleaning and storing your dress can range from
$75 - $600, depending on its size, fabric and detailing.
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To
cut down on cost, you can pack away your gown yourself, but only after
it has been professionally dry-cleaned. To do this, you will need a
large box, tissue paper, and a cotton liner. Cedar chests can also be
used instead of a box. Carefully arrange the bodice and skirt to avoid
wrinkling, and crumple tissue paper in major folds to prevent hard
creasing. Never use plastic or brown boxes. They contain
materials that are harmful to the fabric.
No other garment will ever mean more to you than your wedding gown.
Whether you choose to pass it on to your daughter or simply keep it as
a permanent record of your wedding day, your gown deserves special
attention. By cleaning and storing it properly, you will have a
lasting and well-preserved memento that you can treasure forever.
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