Look your best

Before the tenth holiday party, my neighbor said to me, “Don’t wear your gold lame cocktail dress to a crowded party in a hot room.” What’s so bad about that?

Answer: Partygoers need to be particularly careful of metallic fabric that can corrode if exposed to moisture. To prevent dampness to lame and other metallics, be sure to wear underarm shields that will help prolong the life and looks of your special outfit.

After the eleventh holiday party, my mother said to me, “How are you going to clean your new beaded top after the soiree?” Good question!

Answer: The beads on many outfits are made of polystyrene, which looks like glass. Polystyrene should not be drycleaned but washed as long as it is attached to a garment that is washable.

At the twelfth holiday party, my father said to me, “You’ll look gorgeous in this new fur, just be sure to care for it well.” How do I protect this investment?

Answer: Furs, leathers, and suedes should be kept clean by keeping them covered with a cloth, not a plastic, garment bag. Each should be cleaned annually by a drycleaner who specializes in cleaning furs. Special storage facilities are recommended for seasonal storage of furs. Ask us about storage.

Now, enjoy the rest of the holiday season!