There's nothing quite like slipping into a beautiful sequin dress and feeling the sparkle transform your entire look. But once the party's over and the confetti has settled, many women find themselves staring at their glittering garment wondering: how on earth do I take care of this thing? Proper care is essential for maintaining the brilliance and longevity of your sequin dress, and with the right techniques, your favourite sparkly piece can last for years of celebrations to come.
Understanding how to care for sequin garments is particularly important because these embellishments are more delicate than they might appear. Sequins can become dull, bent, or even fall off if subjected to harsh treatment. The good news is that with a little knowledge and patience, keeping your sequin dress in pristine condition is entirely achievable.
Understanding Your Sequin Dress
Before diving into care techniques, it's helpful to understand what you're working with. Sequins come in various materials, each requiring slightly different handling. Traditional sequins are made from plastic or PVC, while vintage pieces might feature metal sequins. Some modern dresses use biodegradable sequins made from plant-based materials. Check your garment's care label and fabric composition to understand what type of sequins you're dealing with.
The base fabric is equally important. Sequin dresses are commonly constructed on mesh, tulle, jersey, or satin backings. Each of these fabrics has its own care requirements, and you'll need to consider both the sequins and the underlying material when cleaning and storing your dress.
Always check the care label first. If your dress says "dry clean only," it's best to follow that advice, especially for expensive or vintage pieces. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
Cleaning Your Sequin Dress
Spot Cleaning for Minor Stains
For small spills or marks, spot cleaning is often the safest and most effective approach. Start by turning your dress inside out to protect the sequins. Using a clean, white cloth dampened with cool water, gently blot the stained area. Avoid rubbing, as this can loosen sequins or spread the stain. For stubborn marks, you can add a tiny amount of mild, pH-neutral detergent to the water.
Work from the outside of the stain towards the centre to prevent spreading. Once clean, blot the area with a dry cloth and allow it to air dry completely before storing. Never use heat on sequined garments, as this can warp plastic sequins or damage adhesive backing.
Hand Washing When Necessary
If your dress requires more thorough cleaning and the care label permits washing, hand washing is the safest method. Fill a clean basin or bathtub with cool water and add a small amount of gentle detergent designed for delicates. Submerge the dress and gently swish it through the water without wringing, twisting, or scrubbing.
Let the dress soak for no more than ten minutes, then drain the soapy water and refill with clean, cool water to rinse. You may need to repeat the rinse cycle two or three times until all detergent is removed. Gently press out excess water without wringing, and lay the dress flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel to absorb more moisture, then reshape the dress and lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Never put a sequin dress in the washing machine, even on a delicate cycle. The agitation can cause sequins to fall off, become bent, or scratch against each other. Similarly, avoid the tumble dryer at all costs—the heat and movement will almost certainly damage your dress.
Proper Storage Techniques
How you store your sequin dress between wearings is just as important as how you clean it. Improper storage can lead to crushed sequins, fabric creasing, and even discolouration over time. Taking a few extra moments to store your dress correctly will pay dividends in the long run.
Turning Inside Out
Before storing, always turn your sequin dress inside out. This protects the sequins from rubbing against other garments or storage materials, which can cause them to become dull or bent. It also prevents sequins from snagging on other items in your wardrobe.
Using a Garment Bag
Store your dress in a breathable garment bag—cotton or muslin bags are ideal. Avoid plastic bags or covers, as these can trap moisture and cause mildew or yellowing over time. The breathable fabric allows air circulation while still protecting the dress from dust and light.
Hanging vs. Folding
Whether to hang or fold your sequin dress depends on its weight and construction. Lightweight dresses can be hung on padded hangers to maintain their shape and prevent shoulder bumps. For heavier sequined gowns, folding may be better to avoid stretching. If folding, place tissue paper between the layers to prevent sequins from pressing against each other and leaving imprints.
Store your sequin dress inside out in a breathable garment bag, away from direct sunlight. For long-term storage, add acid-free tissue paper between folds and consider adding silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
Day-to-Day Care Tips
Beyond cleaning and storage, there are several day-to-day practices that will help maintain your sequin dress's sparkle and integrity.
- Be mindful of jewellery: Bracelets, rings, and watches can snag on sequins. Put on your accessories after your dress and remove them before changing.
- Watch your seat: Avoid sitting on rough surfaces like wicker chairs or textured upholstery that could catch and pull at sequins.
- Apply products first: Put on perfume, deodorant, and makeup before getting dressed. These products can stain or dull sequins if applied afterward.
- Keep a lint roller handy: A gentle pass with a lint roller can remove surface dust and keep your dress looking fresh.
- Address snags immediately: If a thread or sequin becomes loose, attend to it promptly to prevent further damage.
Professional Cleaning Considerations
For expensive, vintage, or heavily soiled sequin dresses, professional dry cleaning is often the safest choice. When selecting a dry cleaner, look for one with experience handling embellished and delicate garments. Not all dry cleaners are equipped to handle sequins, so don't hesitate to ask about their experience and techniques.
Point out any specific stains or areas of concern when dropping off your dress. A good dry cleaner will examine the garment carefully and may choose to hand-clean certain areas rather than subjecting the entire dress to chemical solvents. While professional cleaning is more expensive than home care, it's a worthwhile investment for pieces you want to keep looking their best for years to come.
Reviving Dull Sequins
Over time, even well-cared-for sequins can lose some of their lustre. If your dress is looking a bit lacklustre, there are a few tricks to revive its sparkle. A very light misting with water can help restore shine to dulled plastic sequins. For more stubborn dullness, a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water, applied sparingly with a soft cloth, can sometimes bring back the shine. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
With proper care and attention, your sequin dress can remain a sparkling centrepiece of your wardrobe for many celebrations to come. Whether it's a cherished vintage find or a new addition to your collection, treating your sequined garments with respect will ensure they continue to help you shine at every special occasion.