What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned fashionista or a newly-minted trench coat enthusiast, knowing how to hang your trench coat correctly is crucial for preserving its elegance and longevity.
- A trench coat, with its structured shoulders, tailored silhouette, and often delicate fabric, is not a garment you can simply throw over a chair or toss into a drawer.
- By understanding the importance of proper hanging and following these tips, you can ensure that your trench coat remains a cherished part of your wardrobe for years to come.
Whether you’re a seasoned fashionista or a newly-minted trench coat enthusiast, knowing how to hang your trench coat correctly is crucial for preserving its elegance and longevity. This iconic piece of outerwear, known for its timeless appeal and versatility, deserves the proper care to maintain its structure and prevent wrinkles, sagging, and other wardrobe woes.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Hanging
A trench coat, with its structured shoulders, tailored silhouette, and often delicate fabric, is not a garment you can simply throw over a chair or toss into a drawer. Improper storage can lead to:
- Sagging shoulders: The weight of the coat can pull down the shoulders, distorting its shape.
- Wrinkles and creases: Folding a trench coat can create unsightly wrinkles that are difficult to remove.
- Damage to the fabric: Hanging the coat on a flimsy hanger can cause stretching or tearing.
- Loss of its original shape: The coat’s classic silhouette can become distorted over time with improper storage.
Choosing the Right Hanger for Your Trench Coat
The foundation of proper trench coat hanging lies in selecting the right hanger. Not all hangers are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can be detrimental to your coat. Here’s what to look for:
- Sturdy construction: Opt for a hanger made from sturdy materials like wood or padded metal. Avoid flimsy plastic hangers that can bend under the weight of the coat.
- Wide shoulders: A wide-shouldered hanger is essential to prevent the shoulders of the coat from sagging.
- Shape: Look for hangers with a contoured shape that mimics the natural curve of the shoulders. This helps maintain the coat’s silhouette.
- Non-slip surface: Choose hangers with a textured or non-slip surface to prevent the coat from sliding off.
The Proper Technique for Hanging Your Trench Coat
Now that you have the right hanger, follow these steps to ensure your trench coat is hung correctly:
1. Button the coat: Before hanging, button the coat from the bottom to the top, including the top button. This helps maintain the shape of the coat and prevents the fabric from stretching.
2. Hang by the shoulders: Always hang the coat by the shoulders, never by the collar or sleeves. This avoids stretching and distorting the fabric.
3. Avoid overcrowding: Don’t cram your coat into a crowded closet. Give it ample space to breathe and prevent wrinkles.
4. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat can fade the color and damage the fabric.
Additional Tips for Extending the Life of Your Trench Coat
Beyond proper hanging, there are other things you can do to keep your trench coat in pristine condition:
- Regularly dust and air out your coat: Dusting your coat periodically and airing it out in a well-ventilated space helps prevent dust buildup and keeps the fabric fresh.
- Avoid storing your coat in a humid environment: Humidity can lead to mildew and mold, damaging the fabric.
- Consider professional cleaning: For deep cleaning and stain removal, it’s best to take your trench coat to a professional dry cleaner.
When to Hang Your Trench Coat vs. Fold It
While hanging is generally the preferred method for storing a trench coat, there are instances when folding might be necessary:
- Short-term storage: If you’re only storing your coat for a short period, you can fold it carefully, ensuring the folds are smooth and consistent.
- Traveling: When traveling, folding your coat is often the most practical option. Pack it in a garment bag or suitcase to protect it from wrinkles.
Maintaining the Elegance of Your Trench Coat: A Final Thought
Investing in a timeless trench coat is an investment in style and durability. By understanding the importance of proper hanging and following these tips, you can ensure that your trench coat remains a cherished part of your wardrobe for years to come.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What if I don’t have a wide-shouldered hanger?
A: If you don’t have a wide-shouldered hanger, you can try using two regular hangers side-by-side, with the coat’s shoulders resting on both. This will help distribute the weight more evenly.
Q: Can I hang my trench coat on a plastic hanger?
A: While it’s not ideal, you can use a plastic hanger in a pinch. However, make sure it’s a sturdy one and avoid hanging the coat on it for extended periods.
Q: How often should I air out my trench coat?
A: It’s a good idea to air out your trench coat at least once a month, especially if you live in a humid climate. This helps prevent mildew and mold growth.
Q: Can I wash my trench coat in a washing machine?
A: Most trench coats are made from delicate fabrics that shouldn’t be washed in a washing machine. Always check the care label and consult a professional dry cleaner for the best cleaning method.
Q: How can I remove wrinkles from my trench coat?
A: If your trench coat develops wrinkles, you can try steaming it or using a steamer iron on a low setting. Be sure to test the steamer on a hidden area of the coat first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
