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Hi there,

I want to talk about taking care of tailored garments.

It's something I advocate because proper care makes a real difference in how long pieces last and how good they look. And it's super simple to do.

Here's what I do after wearing a suit or jacket:

Brushing:

I use a brush with natural bristles. Any brush with natural bristles (typically horsehair, boar bristles, etc.) will do, too. After wearing a jacket or trousers for the day, I brush them briefly to remove any dust that's accumulated. Takes about 30 seconds and it really makes a difference. It's a simple habit that keeps the fabric looking fresh. Brushes also work well for sweaters!

Airing out:

Then I hang the garment somewhere it can breathe—not back in the wardrobe immediately, but on a hook or stand where air can circulate. In spring or autumn, I might open a window. In summer and winter, room air is fine (Japan is too hot in summer and too cold in winter to open windows, but it might differ in your country).

Why this matters:

Every time I'm amazed, but it's really true: wool recovers from creases just by hanging under its own weight overnight—you don't need to iron it. For trousers, I hang them so the heavier upper part (waistband area) hangs lower than the hem—the trouser's weight helps smooth out any creases faster.

Cotton and linen don't have this property, so I'll press them with an iron when needed. (That's also why any blends with wool typically hold their shape better.)

Dry cleaning:

I avoid dry cleaning unless there's an actual severe stain. The chemicals are harsh on fabric. If I'm wearing a suit regularly—say, two to three times a week—I'll dry clean it maybe once every six months at maximum. Otherwise, I spot clean when needed with a damp cloth and a little soap. If I know I'll be eating 'dangerous' foods, I'll choose my garments carefully. I'd be very cautious about wearing lighter colors.

Rotation:

You don't want to wear the same jacket or suit two days in a row. The fabric needs time to air out and return to its natural shape. This is one reason why having several suits isn't just about variety—it's about letting each piece rest properly between wears.

This routine has kept my oldest pieces in good condition for years.

What's your approach to garment care? Any difficulties you faced? Let me know!

Best regards,
Lukas from Thoughtful Style