Crepe is beautiful but delicate. Here is exactly how to wash, dry, de-wrinkle and store it so it lasts.
Crepe — recognisable by its lightly crinkled, matte surface — drapes beautifully and resists wrinkles better than most fabrics. It is also delicate: the same twist in the yarn that gives crepe its texture makes it prone to shrinking and stretching if handled carelessly. Treat it gently and it will last for years.
How to wash crepe
Always check the care label first. When in doubt, hand-wash: submerge the garment in cool water with a small amount of mild detergent, swirl gently, and never wring or twist. If you must machine-wash, use a mesh laundry bag, a delicate or hand-wash cycle, and cold water only. Hot water is crepe's biggest enemy — it shrinks the fibres.
How to dry it without stretching
- Never tumble dry — heat and tumbling both distort crepe.
- Press out excess water by laying the garment flat between two towels; do not wring.
- Dry flat where possible. Hanging a heavy, wet crepe dress can stretch it out of shape.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can fade colour over time.
Removing wrinkles
Crepe rarely needs ironing, which is part of its appeal. If it does wrinkle, use a steamer or the lowest iron setting with a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric — direct high heat can leave a permanent shine or scorch the surface.
Storing crepe
Hang structured crepe pieces on padded hangers to avoid shoulder bumps, and fold heavier ones loosely to prevent stretching at the hanger points. Give the garment room to breathe rather than crushing it between other items, and keep it somewhere cool and dry.
In short
Cool water, no wringing, dry flat, low or no heat. Follow those four rules and crepe stays soft, colour-true and beautifully draped. Many of our warm-weather dresses use crepe and crepe blends — see the full edit.