Quiet Sustainability: Caring for Fabrics the HMcA Way
At Helen McAlinden, we design with longevity in mind. Timeless cuts, considered fabrics and careful construction mean our pieces are made to be worn on repeat, not retired after a season. Sustainability, to us, is practical and quiet: choose well, care well, and keep good clothes in circulation for years.
Caring for your wardrobe starts with conservatively washing. Most garments do not need a full wash after every wear. A brisk air on a hanger will freshen natural fibres and help them recover their shape. When marks appear, reach first for cool water and a mild soap on a clean cloth. Spot cleaning preserves colour, respects delicate finishes and saves energy. If and when you do wash, keep the temperature low. Cool water is kinder to fibres and reduces fading. Skip the tumble dryer where you can. Heat is hard on textiles, so reshape garments and let them dry flat or on a hanger. A handheld steamer will lift creases without crushing the fabric; in a pinch, hang the piece in the bathroom while you shower and let the steam do the work. Dry cleaning has its place, but use it selectively. If a care label reads dry clean only, it is for good reason; when you do take a piece in, choose a cleaner who avoids harsh solvents such as perchloroethylene, and ask to forgo the plastic cover.
Different fabrics respond best to different routines. Cashmere and fine knits benefit from rest between wears, a gentle de-pill with a knit comb, and an occasional cold hand wash with a wool detergent. Press out moisture in a towel and dry flat away from heat, then fold for storage rather than hanging. Irish linen loves fresh air and a cool, gentle wash. Shake it out, line dry, and press while still slightly damp, or simply steam for that easy, softened finish. Wool and tweed respond well to a quick brush and a thorough air; reserve dry cleaning for true refreshes and store with cedar to deter moths. Silk deserves a light touch: spot clean where possible, and if you wash at home, use cool water and a silk-friendly detergent, then roll in a towel before laying flat to dry. Cotton and viscose blends fare well on a gentle cycle in a mesh bag; remove promptly, reshape and allow to dry naturally.
Fit determines how often you will reach for a piece. A simple nip or tuck from a trusted tailor can make a dress or jacket feel newly made for you. Before replacing a favourite, consider a refresh: new buttons, a tidy re-hem or a discreet darn can restore polish with minimal intervention. Rotate your wardrobe so fabrics can rest and recover, and store with care. Fold heavy knits to prevent stretching, use padded hangers for tailoring, close zips and hooks to protect delicate surfaces, and keep garments out of direct sunlight to avoid fading. Small habits pay off. Empty pockets before hanging up, remove belts, and turn garments inside out before washing to reduce abrasion.
There comes a time to part with even the best-loved clothes. Favour re-wear first. Consign or resell pieces through reputable boutiques or trusted platforms so someone else can enjoy them. A swap with friends offers a refresh without new production. If donating, be selective and send only clean, good-quality items that are ready to wear; textile recycling often down-cycles to insulation or rags, so reuse is the most responsible first step.
Our collections lean on the natural fibres we love to work with in Dublin: cashmere for softness, Irish linen for breathability, wool and tweed for structure and warmth. Designed with longevity and ease, these fabrics reward gentle care and thoughtful wear. If you are unsure how best to look after a particular piece, call or visit us on Drury Street and we will be happy to advise.
Wear more, wash less is the simplest way to reduce fashion’s footprint. Treat your clothes well and they will return the favour. Quality, looked after, becomes longevity – and that is always in style.
