How to Care for Embroidered Native Wear
Good native wear lasts for years if you look after it. Here is how.
Embroidery is the most precious part of a native outfit. A few simple habits keep it looking new.
Washing
- Follow the care label. If in doubt, dry clean.
- For machine-safe fabrics, turn the garment inside out and use a cool, gentle wash.
- Wash dark colours separately the first few times.
- Never wring embroidery. Press water out gently with a towel.
Pressing and steaming
Steam is your friend. A handheld steamer removes creases without flattening embroidery. If you iron, press from the reverse side with a cloth between the iron and the fabric.
Storing
Hang tunics and agbada on wide, shaped hangers in a breathable garment bag. Keep them out of direct sunlight to stop colours fading. Fold trousers along the crease.
Before an event
Take your outfit out a day early, steam it, and check for loose threads. Snip, never pull, any stray thread.
Questions people ask
Can I machine wash embroidered native wear?
Only if the care label allows it. Use a cool, gentle wash with the garment inside out. Otherwise, dry clean.
How do I remove creases from an agbada?
Use a handheld steamer, or iron from the reverse side with a cloth between the iron and the fabric.
