How to Care For Your Accessories

How to keep your treasured accessories in tip top shape and on the ready for any occasion.

How often have you pulled out that pretty silk scarf, only to throw it back into the corner of your wardrobe as it is too crumpled to wear? Have you ever ruined an expensive handbag with a leaky pen or the wrong cleaner? These tips will keep you from repeating the same mistakes again.

1) Belts - To keep them from curving or cracking, hang them vertically on a belt or tie rack, away from direct sunlight and damp areas. You can place a dehumidifier to help absorb moisture in your wardrobe.

2) Shoes - Before wearing new leather shoes, treat them to a cream polish rubdown to ward off soil penetration. Polish protects leather from drying out or getting ruined by sudden rain. Be sure to test a small area before applying coloured polish. Wipe off dust after each use. When dust settle into your shoe creases, they act like sandpaper, cutting into the leather with every step you take. If you are caught in the rain, let your shoes dry naturally; stuff the toe area with paper towels to absorb moisture and help retain the shoe' s shape.

3) Bags - Keep totes in good-as-new condition by storing perfumes, hand creams and make-up in waterproof cosmetic pouches. Try not to carry too must as it will destroy the shape of your bag and hurt your back. Clean your bags regularly with a neutral-coloured polish. This will prevent staining on your clothes. Store them, zipped up, in their dust bag covers or in natural-fibre pillowcase. To keep them in shape, try stuffing them with bubble wrap.

4) Scarves - If they are a part of your daily wardrobe ensemble, use special hangers that have a non-slippery surface. If you are storing them away, avoid creases by rolling them around tubular pieces like paper towel rolls instead of folding them.