Wardrobe Preservation 101

One of the most common questions I get from clients—especially after they’ve added investment pieces to their wardrobe—is: “How do I take care of this?”

So I put together a straightforward guide with tips on how to extend the life of your clothing, jewelry, and shoes. A little thoughtful care makes all the difference—not just in how your pieces look, but in how long they last. Intentional care extends the life of your wardrobe.

GARMENT CARE

WASH SPARINGLY

Only wash your garments when truly necessary. Frequent washing wears down fabric, shortens the lifespan of your clothing, and wastes water and detergent. Well-made pieces are designed to last—and with mindful care, yours will too. Denim should be spot cleaned when possible. If they start to smell, pop them into an airtight bag and place them in the freezer for a couple of days—it’ll help kill odor-causing bacteria without compromising the fabric. My go-to for caring for lingerie is Forever New — it's gentle, effective, and specially formulated for delicate fabrics.

HAND WASH IN COLD WATER

Hand washing in cold water is the gentlest way to clean delicate items. It protects fabric fibers, preserves color, and helps prevent shrinkage. Plus, it reduces your environmental impact by eliminating the need for energy-intensive heating.

AIR DRY EVERYTHING

Skip the dryer. Air drying is not only better for your clothes—it’s better for the planet. Let garments dry naturally on a rack or clothesline to maintain their shape and quality, while lowering your carbon footprint.

CONSIDERING DRY CLEANING?

If your item calls for professional cleaning, ask your cleaner about safer, low-impact alternatives. Traditional dry cleaning often uses harsh chemicals like perchloroethylene (perc), which is linked to environmental and health risks. Many cleaners now offer water-based methods or biodegradable solvents like D-5. It’s worth asking. Don’t toss your old sweaters—have them professionally de-pilled, or turn it into a little project with an at-home fabric shaver. A quick refresh can make them look brand new. You should also consider investing in a high-quality steamer. I recently partnered with Nori, and I’m absolutely in love with their three-in-one tool — it works as a steamer, iron, and fabric refresher all in one. It's sleek, portable, and heats up in just a few seconds, making it perfect for everyday use or travel. Plus, it’s gentle on fabrics and super easy to use, even on delicate items.

JEWELRY CARE

A little attention goes a long way.

• Store jewelry in a dry, protected space—your own jewelry box or the original packaging is ideal.

• Keep away from oils, lotions, perfumes, and water, as these can dull or tarnish the finish over time.

• Wipe gently with a soft cloth or cotton round after each wear to help maintain luster and minimize buildup.

• This is a great product for keeping your diamonds and metals clean and sparkling.

Note: Proper care ensures lasting wear. Pieces damaged due to improper handling may not be eligible for repair or replacement.

SHOE CARE

Yes—shoes matter too.

• Store them properly. No piles by the door—use a shoe rack, dust bags, or original boxes when possible.

• Rotate your pairs. Wearing the same pair every day accelerates wear and breakdown. Give your shoes time to breathe between wears.

• Keep them clean. Wipe down leather, suede, or fabric with the appropriate care tools, and consider investing in protective sprays for weatherproofing.

• Use inserts or shoe trees. They help maintain structure and prevent creasing, especially in leather styles. Here is a great shoe insert for boots

• Protect those beautiful leather soles before they wear down—add a thin rubber sole to extend their life and make them more comfortable for everyday wear. Linking my favorite spot in SF here, and my go-to place in NYC here.

Your shoes are the foundation of every outfit—literally. A bit of upkeep keeps them looking fresh and feeling supportive for years to come.