Prep Your Suit for the Christmas Party in Good Time

Take the outfit out in good time

The most common mistake is taking the suit out of the wardrobe the night before. Hang it out a few days ahead and you get to see what it actually needs: creases to steam out, a button coming loose, a stain from last time, or a fit that no longer sits right. Then you have time both to fix it yourself and to send in what needs time – instead of discovering it when it is too late.

Air and steam out the creases

A lot sorts itself out just by letting the garment hang airily. Steam is gentler than an iron on a suit and smooths the wool without pressing it flat.

1. Hang the suit on a wide, shaped hanger so the shoulders keep their form and the creases let go.
2. Use a clothes steamer, or hang the garment in a steamy bathroom for a while – the moisture releases the creases in the wool.
3. Let the outfit hang and air for a day; often both creases and a faint smell disappear without washing.
4. Never iron directly on wool without a pressing cloth in between – it leaves a shiny sheen that is hard to remove.

Press correctly – without a shiny sheen

If the trousers need a sharp crease or the shirt a going-over, do it with low enough heat and a pressing cloth, so you do not damage the fabric.

1. Always place a damp pressing cloth between the iron and the wool to avoid shine.
2. Use steam and low to medium heat; test on the inside of a seam first.
3. Press the trouser crease along the old folds, do not create new ones elsewhere.
4. Hang the garment until it is fully dry and cool before wearing it, so the press holds.

Check buttons, seams, zip and fit

Go over the outfit while you have it in your hands. Small things are quick to fix yourself; fit and hidden repairs need more time – which is why it helps to spot them early.

• Buttons: sew loose buttons back on and replace a missing one before it comes off entirely at the party.
• Seams and lining: feel for loose seams at the shoulder, crotch and pockets, and check the lining for tears.
• Zip: test the zip on the dress or trousers up and down – one that slides open by itself should be fixed.
• Fit: if a year has passed, the waist, length or sleeves may need adjusting – that takes time, so plan ahead.

When should the outfit go to a professional?

A structured suit jacket, a 'dry clean only' dress, or a garment that needs taking in, letting out or hemming is best in professional hands – and over-frequent home cleaning actually wears a suit over time. If you are in good time, we can clean, press and alter it before the party. Send the outfit to us, and we help you across Norway. We clean and press according to the garment and care label. You order online, and you see the price before you order.

Frequently asked questions