The first rule: keep the spotlight on the bride by avoiding white, cream or pale pastels. Prints with light backgrounds are fine, as long as they don’t read as “white” from a distance. If the ceremony is in a house of worship, cover your shoulders with a sleeved dress or jacket. If the wedding’s outdoors, […]

Using too much fabric softener on towels can leave a waxy, water-resistant coating on the fibers that is the opposite effect of a good towel. Would you use wax paper or a paper towel to blot water? To get your towels back to absorbency, add a quarter cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle for […]

A few simple steps can save a trip and add at least one more wear to your nicest clothes. After wearing, hang the garment on a sturdy wooden hanger, remove pocket contents, belts or accessories, then give jackets, skirts or pants a thorough brushing to remove lint, dust and surface grime. Ease out wrinkles with […]

Anything made of leather needs maintenance, especially if it’s been exposed to winter conditions. Wipe shoes and boots with a damp cloth, especially if salt-stained. Inspect jackets and coats for damage, tears or stains before hanging on a well-padded hanger for storage. Use leather conditioner on dry spots like elbows and seams. Frequently worn items […]

Vinegar’s back! This inexpensive miracle worker gives brighter, cleaner, fresher laundry. For instance, it removes sweat and deodorant stains, replaces fabric softener to reduce static, and boosts detergent power while eliminating buildup from powdered cleaners. An overnight soak in half and half vinegar and water can help kill stubborn workout smells. Add a half cup to […]