Folding dresses neatly is an essential skill for maintaining an organized wardrobe and preserving the quality of your garments. Whether you’re packing for a trip or simply tidying up your closet, knowing how to fold a dress properly can save you time, space, and frustration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various techniques for folding different types of dresses, ensuring they remain wrinkle-free and ready to wear.
Basic dress folding technique
The basic dress folding method is suitable for most casual dresses and can be adapted to various styles. Follow these steps to master this versatile technique :
- Lay the dress flat on a clean surface, front side down.
- Smooth out any wrinkles or creases with your hands.
- Fold the dress in half vertically, bringing the sides together.
- Fold the sleeves (if any) inward, creating a straight edge along the sides.
- Fold the dress horizontally into thirds or quarters, depending on its length.
This method works well for cotton, jersey, and other casual fabrics. It’s particularly effective for sundresses, t-shirt dresses, and simple shift dresses. By following these steps, you’ll create a compact, easily stackable package that fits neatly in drawers or suitcases.
Remember to adjust the number of folds based on the dress’s length and the storage space available. For longer dresses, you may need to fold them into quarters or even fifths to achieve a manageable size.
Folding delicate and formal dresses
Delicate and formal dresses require extra care to prevent damage and minimize wrinkles. These garments often feature intricate details, embellishments, or delicate fabrics that need special attention. Here’s a method tailored for these types of dresses :
- Lay the dress flat on a clean, soft surface.
- Place acid-free tissue paper between layers to prevent creasing.
- Fold the dress in half lengthwise, aligning the shoulders and sides.
- Gently fold the sleeves across the bodice, using tissue paper to cushion any embellishments.
- Fold the bottom of the dress up towards the waist, using more tissue paper between folds.
- Continue folding upwards until you reach a suitable size for storage.
This technique is ideal for evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and dresses made from silk or chiffon. The use of tissue paper helps prevent creases and protects delicate fabrics from snagging or crushing.
For dresses with voluminous skirts or intricate pleating, consider hanging them instead of folding. If folding is necessary, use extra tissue paper to support the skirt’s shape and minimize creasing.
Space-saving folding methods
When storage space is at a premium, employing space-saving folding techniques can make a significant difference. These methods are particularly useful for travel or small closets. Here are two popular space-saving approaches :
The rolling method
Rolling dresses is an excellent way to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. This technique works well for casual, knit, and jersey dresses. Follow these steps :
- Lay the dress flat, front side down.
- Fold in the sleeves and smooth out any wrinkles.
- Starting from the bottom, tightly roll the dress upwards.
- Secure the roll with a hair tie or rubber band if needed.
This method is favored by many travelers, including Audrey Hepburn, who was known for her impeccable style even while on the go. Rolling dresses not only saves space but also helps prevent deep creases that can occur with traditional folding.
The KonMari folding method
Popularized by organizing consultant Marie Kondo, the KonMari method focuses on creating compact, standing folds. Here’s how to apply it to dresses :
- Lay the dress flat on a surface.
- Fold the dress in half vertically, then in half again.
- Fold the bottom of the dress up to the waist, then fold again towards the top.
- The final fold should create a small rectangle that can stand upright.
This technique allows you to store dresses vertically in drawers, making them easily visible and accessible. It’s particularly effective for casual dresses and those made from sturdy fabrics.
Folding Method | Best For | Space Efficiency |
---|---|---|
Basic Fold | Casual dresses | Moderate |
Delicate Fold | Formal and embellished dresses | Low |
Rolling Method | Knit and jersey dresses | High |
KonMari Method | All types, especially casual | Very High |
Maintaining folded dresses
Properly maintaining your folded dresses ensures they remain in excellent condition and ready to wear. Here are some tips to keep your garments looking their best :
- Rotate dresses regularly to prevent permanent creases from forming.
- Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to keep dresses fresh and deter moths.
- Store folded dresses in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Consider using breathable garment bags for long-term storage of delicate dresses.
- Periodically refold dresses to prevent settling and creasing.
By incorporating these maintenance practices, you’ll extend the life of your dresses and keep them looking pristine. Remember that some dresses, particularly those made from delicate fabrics or with intricate designs, may benefit more from hanging than folding.
Mastering the art of dress folding not only keeps your wardrobe organized but also ensures your dresses remain in top condition. Whether you’re using the basic fold, rolling method, or KonMari technique, the key is to choose the approach that best suits your dress type and storage needs. With practice, you’ll develop a system that keeps your dresses neat, accessible, and ready for any occasion.