Making a period costume is an expensive and time-consuming enterprise. Once you have invested your time, energy, and money into your costume, you want it to last for many years and look great for those years as well.

To help you get the most from your period costume, keep these few tips in mind.

1. Choose Fabrics Wisely

Long-lasting costumes begin with long-lasting materials. Satin, taffeta, and silk - popular looks for period finery - come in thicker materials and thinner ones. Thin fabric is more likely to rip under pressure and give way around seams. Sturdier choices like cotton and polyester blends and lined material often hold up better under repeated use and normal cleaning methods.

Before you purchase or make your costume, consult with others who are experienced in fabric choices and vintage clothing. And if you've already made the costume, consider replacing portions that aren't standing up well over time.

2. Inspect Costumes Regularly

Each time you remove the costume from its storage or take it off after a fun day, inspect it completely. Look for tears or rips as well as signs of fabric under stress. Make sure the buttons and snaps are all in place and still functioning. Check zippers, seams, and ties.

Make special note of any potential stains, such as grease, makeup, sweat, or liquids - common problems after a day at the Renaissance fair or a recreational event. One of the most important elements of stain removal is speed, so do this inspection as soon as possible and get things cleaned quickly.

3. Use Professional Cleaning

Some costume materials are machine washable, but many aren't. In addition, handmade and specialty costumes may not survive standard washing practices. Hand-sewn pieces and vintage historical fabrics are the most at risk from harsh and indiscriminate washing practices.

Some cleaners prefer not to work with handmade clothing, so you should consult with a shop that specializes in this type of clothing. They will be better equipped to resolve stains or tears in older fabric that may no longer be in common use.

4. Store Properly

Talk with your professional cleaning service about the best way to store costume pieces. Many costume owners avoid storing fabrics in plastic bags or bins, for instance, as these might allow moisture to form. Delicate fabrics should be kept in an acid-free box for long-term preservation.

Other accessories - such as hats, boots, purses, or props - might be less sensitive but require proper support so they don't lose their shape. Some likely came in boxes that are ideal for storage, but other items may need something custom-made for proper storage.

5. Keep Items Together

Costume makers know that the details - shoes, jewelry, makeup, props, hats, and different layers - are a large part of what makes costuming fun and authentic. Even something as seemingly unimportant as a missing undergarment can change the entire shape of a dress or bodice.

For this reason, ensure that all parts of the costume are stored together whenever possible. This is especially important for expensive accessories like jewelry or items not easily replaced, such as handmade props.

Start by tying or bagging loose items together and gathering up larger things into a single storage box or bag. Make an inventory for the whole outfit and attach it to the outside. A written inventory helps you keep track of all the accessories, no matter where you use the costume. Make special notes as to when it was cleaned or anything that needs replaced.

Need help cleaning or caring for your costume? Start by consulting with the clothing care professionals at Crystal Cleaning Center. We can help you find the storage and care solutions for your individual fabrics, garments, and accessories. Call today to make an appointment.