Start with the features that affect care

The Oleander Bralette in Organic Dyed Ivory Silk Charmeuse combines washed silk charmeuse with picot elastic, adjustable handmade silk straps and a hook-and-eye closure. Each of these details responds differently to water, heat and friction, so your care routine should protect the silk while keeping the elastic and hardware functioning.

Because this is a silk charmeuse piece, treat it gently: avoid wringing, high heat and harsh detergents. The following steps are based on the materials and construction listed for this bralette. If you are ever unsure, test a small hidden area first.

How to hand wash your silk charmeuse bralette

Work through these steps in order. They are designed to clean the silk without stressing the elastic or the adjustable straps.

  1. 1. Fasten the hook and eye: Close the closure before washing so the hooks do not snag the delicate silk charmeuse.
  2. 2. Fill a basin with cool water: Use cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent formulated for silk or delicates. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
  3. 3. Submerge and gently agitate: Place the bralette in the water and gently press it down. Let it soak for a few minutes, then move it softly through the water. Do not rub, twist or wring the fabric.
  4. 4. Rinse thoroughly: Drain the basin and refill with cool water. Rinse until no detergent remains, pressing the water out gently with your hands.
  5. 5. Remove excess water without wringing: Lift the bralette and press it between your palms or roll it in a clean, dry towel. Never twist or wring silk charmeuse, as that can damage the fibers and distort the darted cups.

Drying tips that protect the silk and the shape

Lay the bralette flat on a clean, dry towel or a mesh drying rack, reshaping the cups and straps as they were before washing. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators or hair dryers. Hang drying by the straps can stretch them, so flat drying is safer for this piece.

Because silk charmeuse is a smooth, washed fabric, it may feel slightly stiff when dry. A gentle steam or a light press with a cool iron on the reverse side can soften it, but always test a small area first and avoid pressing the picot elastic or the hook-and-eye closure.

Storing a silk bralette to prevent snags and creases

Store the bralette flat in a drawer or folded in a breathable cotton bag. Avoid hanging it by the straps for long periods, as the weight of the cups can stretch the delicate silk straps. Keep it away from rough surfaces, Velcro and zippers that could snag the charmeuse.

If you need to save space, fold the cups gently inward and place the bralette at the top of a drawer. Do not stack heavy items on top of it. For longer storage, use a padded hanger and hang the bralette by its band rather than the straps.

Product details that shape your care routine

When to choose custom sizing for a better fit

The Oleander Bralette is available in sizes XS through XL, and custom sizing can be selected in the sizing drop-down menu. If you are between sizes or have specific fit needs, custom sizing lets you enter your measurements and any other specifications in the “note to Clare Bare” at checkout. A better fit reduces stress on the fabric and elastic, which can help the bralette last longer.