How to Revive a Silk Velvet Dress

Your silk velvet dress is quite likely dry-clean only, but there’s good news for the do-it-yourselfer. You can easily revive crushed fabric and freshen the look with this simple method that’s safe for the material in your garment.

• Cooktop
• Pot
• Water

1. Start by filling a pot half full of clean water.
2. Place it on the cooktop and heat until boiling.
3. Stretch the back (or inner surface) of the fabric over the steam. Be careful not to burn yourself!
4. Hold it over the steam for a short moment. Once the steam has penetrated the fabric, remove it.
5. Hang the garment away from direct heat and allow the piece to air dry.

• Never iron velvet. This will cause the fabric to flatten permanently.
• You can also use a steam cleaner, or, in mild cases, hang the dress in the bathroom while you run a hot shower.
• If this doesn’t improve the appearance of the velvet, consult a dry cleaner.