Velvet and brocade are the fabrics of royalty. They are rich, textured, and reflect light beautifully, making them popular choices for ceremonial Agbadas and Kaftans. However, these luxury fabrics require special care to maintain their texture, color, and luster over time.
Velvet has a soft pile that can easily be crushed or flattened if not handled correctly. Never wash velvet in a home washing machine. Instead, always take your velvet garments to a professional dry cleaner who understands how to clean delicate fabrics. When storing velvet, never fold it. Folding creates creases that are difficult to remove. Hang it on a padded hanger inside a breathable garment bag. If the pile gets flattened, use a fabric steamer on the reverse side of the fabric to lift the fibers.
Brocade is a woven fabric with raised metallic or silk threads. It is prone to snagging and pulling. Like velvet, brocade should be dry cleaned. If you must iron brocade, always iron it on the reverse side using a low heat setting and a pressing cloth to protect the delicate metallic threads. By investing a little extra time in care, you can ensure your luxury garments look pristine for years to come.
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