Quick answer
Hand wash your Lichen Bodice in cool water with a gentle detergent, then air dry flat away from sunlight. Store it flat or hanging by the lacing to protect the boning and unique fabric remnants.
Why special care matters for the Lichen Bodice
The Lichen Bodice is made from leftover atelier remnants fused to cotton coutil, creating a one-of-a-kind piece with varied textures and tones. Because each bodice uses different fabrics, the care routine must be gentle to avoid damaging delicate edges or causing uneven fading.
Unlike mass-produced garments, this bodice has a structured boned interior and a 3m cotton lacing at the back. Harsh washing or improper storage can distort the boning or loosen the stitching, shortening the life of your piece.
Step-by-step care routine
- Prepare the wash: Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild, pH-neutral detergent. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, or enzymatic cleaners that could break down the cotton coutil or loosen the adhesive holding the remnants. Never use hot water — it can shrink the cotton lining and distort the boning channels.
- Hand wash gently: Submerge the bodice and gently swish it in the water. Do not wring, twist, or scrub. Focus on areas that touch skin, like the underarm or back lining. For stains, dab with a soft cloth instead of rubbing. Aggressive motion can shift the boning or fray the remnant edges — gentle is always better.
- Rinse and remove excess water: Drain the soapy water and refill with cool water. Repeat until no suds remain. Press the bodice between two clean, dry towels to absorb moisture — never wring or twist the fabric. Rolling the bodice in a towel is safer than squeezing; it prevents the boning from bending out of shape.
- Air dry flat: Lay the bodice flat on a drying rack or a clean towel away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Reshape the bodice gently while damp. Do not hang it by the straps or boning — the weight of wet fabric can stretch the lacing. Drying in shade preserves the color of the varied remnant fabrics — sunlight can cause uneven fading.
- Store properly: Once fully dry, store the Lichen Bodice flat in a drawer or hang it by the back lacing loops (not the straps or boning). Keep it away from moisture and direct light. Avoid folding over the boning channels to prevent creases. If hanging, use a padded hanger or loop the lacing over a hook — never let the bodice dangle by its straps.
Product details
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Lichen Bodice: The Lichen Bodice uses leftover but still loved fabrics from the Atelier to create a truly unique piece for each customer. It is fully lined and has a 3m cotton lacing at the back. Because each bodice is made from different remnant fabrics, you cannot rely on a standard care label — always test a hidden area first and treat the garment as a delicate, one-of-a-kind item.
Lichen Bodice
