Quick answer
The Oleander Bloomer runs generous due to its stretchy upcycled cotton and Tencel modal lining; size down if you prefer a snug fit, and always wash in cold water on a gentle cycle to preserve the vintage fabric.
Why sizing can be tricky with upcycled fabrics
Because each Oleander Bloomer is made from a different vintage print, the cotton base may have slight variations in stretch and hand feel. The style has a lot of stretch and give between sizes, so your usual size may feel looser than expected.
If you are between sizes or prefer a more fitted silhouette, consider choosing the smaller option. The picot edge elastic and ruffle merrow edges add structure but do not restrict movement.
Caring for vintage cotton and modal lining
The bloomer pairs a vintage cotton outer with a Tencel modal jersey lining. Modal is a semi-synthetic fiber that resists shrinking but can pill if rubbed aggressively. Cotton shrinks slightly on first wash, so cold water and low heat drying are essential.
Avoid fabric softeners—they coat the modal fibers and reduce breathability. Instead, use a mild detergent and air dry flat to maintain the fit and print integrity.
Step-by-step sizing & care guide
- Measure your hips and waist: Use a soft tape measure around the fullest part of your hips and your natural waist. Compare these numbers to the Clare Bare size chart. The Oleander Bloomer has a lot of stretch, so if your measurements fall between sizes, choose the smaller one for a closer fit. Common mistake: relying on your usual panty size without measuring—upcycled fabrics fit differently than mass-produced synthetics.
- Check the fabric composition on your tag: Each vintage print may have a slightly different cotton weight. The Tencel modal lining stays consistent, but the outer cotton can range from lightweight voile to medium-weight quilting cotton. Heavier cotton will feel more structured; lighter cotton will drape more.
- Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle: Turn the bloomer inside out, place it in a mesh laundry bag, and select the delicate or hand-wash cycle on your machine. Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent. Hot water can shrink the cotton and damage the vintage print. Checkpoint: skip bleach and fabric softener—they weaken the elastic and dull the print colors.
- Air dry flat away from direct heat: Lay the bloomer flat on a drying rack or clean towel. Do not wring or twist. Avoid the dryer, radiator, or direct sunlight, which can fade the vintage butterfly print and cause the elastic to lose its snap. Common mistake: tumble drying on low still risks shrinkage—air drying is the safest method for upcycled cotton.
- Store folded, not hung: Fold the bloomer neatly and place it in a drawer or shelf. Hanging can stretch the elastic over time. Keep it away from rough drawer edges that could snag the ruffle merrow edges.
Product details
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Ready to Ship Oleander Bloomer in Vintage Butterfly Print Cotton Size S: This style features upcycled vintage cotton fabric, Tencel modal jersey lining, picot edge elastic, and ruffle merrow edges. The combination of stretchy cotton and smooth modal means the panty adapts to your shape but requires gentle washing to avoid distorting the vintage print.
Ready to Ship Oleander Bloomer in Vintage Butterfly Print Cotton Size S