A trench coat is a timeless classic, a statement piece that elevates any outfit. But when it's not gracing your shoulders, proper storage is key to maintaining its shape and longevity. A crumpled trench coat is a sad trench coat! This guide will walk you through several methods for neatly folding your trench coat, ensuring it stays wrinkle-free and ready for its next outing.
Why Proper Folding Matters
Before we dive into the techniques, let's understand why folding your trench coat correctly is so important. Improper folding can lead to:
- Creases and wrinkles: These can be difficult to remove, especially in delicate fabrics.
- Damage to the fabric: Constant creasing and bunching can weaken the fibers over time.
- Loss of shape: A poorly folded coat can lose its structure, looking less crisp and stylish.
- Reduced lifespan: Taking care of your trench coat through proper folding extends its life, saving you money in the long run.
Method 1: The Classic Fold (For Closet Storage)
This method is perfect for storing your trench coat in a closet, keeping it relatively wrinkle-free:
- Lay it flat: Lay your trench coat face down on a clean, flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles.
- Button it up: Button all the buttons on your trench coat, from top to bottom. This helps maintain its shape.
- Fold in half: Fold the coat in half lengthwise, aligning the sleeves neatly.
- Fold in thirds: Fold the coat in thirds, bringing one side towards the center, then the other.
- Fold in half again: Finally, fold the coat in half one more time, creating a compact rectangle.
This leaves you with a neatly folded trench coat ready to be placed on a shelf or hung (although hanging is generally preferable for trench coats).
Method 2: The Rolling Method (For Travel)
If you're packing your trench coat for travel, rolling is a space-saving and wrinkle-reducing option:
- Lay it flat: Lay the coat face down, buttoned up as in the previous method.
- Roll from the bottom: Starting at the bottom hem, tightly roll the coat towards the shoulders.
- Secure it: Use a garment bag or tie a ribbon around the rolled coat to keep it in place.
Method 3: The Hanging Fold (For Quick Storage)
This method is excellent for quick storage and doesn't require extensive folding.
- Hang it up: Hang your trench coat on a sturdy hanger that matches the width of the shoulders.
- Smooth it out: Smooth out any wrinkles with your hands. This will allow your trench coat to maintain its shape naturally.
Tips for Maintaining Your Trench Coat's Shape:
- Use proper hangers: Choose wide, padded hangers that help maintain the shape of the shoulders.
- Regularly air it out: Allow your coat to air out periodically to prevent the buildup of odors.
- Spot clean as needed: Address any spills or stains promptly to avoid setting them.
- Professional cleaning: Consider professional cleaning once or twice a year to keep your trench coat looking its best.
By following these folding techniques and maintenance tips, you can keep your trench coat looking sharp and ready to wear for years to come. Now go forth and conquer the world, one stylishly folded trench coat at a time!
