Once the dress is clean and dry, you naturally want it to stay fresh until next time. How you store it plays a big role in preserving both its shape and longevity.

Which dresses should be hung?

- Woven fabrics: Dresses made from materials like cotton, polyester, or shirt dresses should be hung to maintain their shape and prevent wrinkles.

- Dresses with few or no heavy embellishments: These garments aren’t at risk of being deformed by their own weight and do well when hung.

- The right hanger matters: To avoid unsightly shoulder marks, choose a hanger with shaped or padded edges.

Which dresses should be folded?

- Knitted or crocheted dresses: These can easily stretch out if hung for too long, so folding is better for maintaining their shape.

- Heavy materials: Dresses made from heavier fabrics may deform at the shoulders if hung, so they should be folded instead.

- Delicate details: Dresses with sequins, lace, or embroidery can snag on other garments if hung, so folding is a safer option to avoid damage.

Long-term storage

If you have seasonal items (like a summery beach dress that isn’t used in winter), store them in a clean box or garment bag. Make sure the dresses are completely dry and clean before putting them away to avoid unpleasant odors or stains that can set over time.