Care Guide

Before washing, steaming, ironing or dry cleaning your garment, always check the care label. Certain LIMA pieces may require specialist care because of their fabric, embroidery, embellishment or construction.

If you are uncertain, we recommend consulting a professional dry cleaner experienced in delicate and embellished garments rather than attempting to clean the piece at home.

Fine and delicate fabrics should always be handled with care. Where hand washing is permitted by the care label, use cool water and an appropriate gentle detergent. Never assume that a delicate fabric is suitable for hand washing simply because it feels lightweight.

If the care label specifies dry clean only, the garment should not be washed at home.

Many structured, embroidered, embellished or occasion pieces may be best cared for professionally. Where dry cleaning is recommended, choose a reputable cleaner with experience in luxury, delicate and embellished garments.

We recommend making the cleaner aware of any particularly delicate embroidery, beadwork or specialist finishes before cleaning.

Always check the garment care label before applying heat. Where steaming is permitted, a gentle steam may help release creases without placing direct pressure on delicate fabrics or embellishment.

Avoid placing a hot iron directly onto embroidery, sequins, beadwork, prints or decorative finishes. Where ironing is permitted, use the appropriate temperature for the fabric and, where suitable, place a clean cloth between the iron and garment for additional protection.

Intricate detailing is part of what gives many LIMA garments their distinctive character. Beading, sequins, embroidery, crystals, metallic thread and other embellishments should be handled gently.

Hand-finished pieces may feature subtle variations in embroidery or embellishment. These characteristics can be part of the individuality of handcrafted work.

Perfume, deodorant, hairspray, make-up, fake tan, body oils and other beauty products can stain or alter delicate fabrics and finishes.

Where possible, apply fragrance and beauty products before dressing and allow them to dry completely before putting on your LIMA garment. Avoid spraying perfume directly onto fabric or embellishment.

Thoughtful storage can significantly help preserve a garment. Before storing a LIMA piece, ensure that it is completely clean and dry.

Avoid hanging particularly heavy embellished garments for extended periods unless the garment has been designed to be stored in this way.

After wearing your LIMA piece, allow it to air naturally before returning it to your wardrobe. If the garment does not require cleaning, gently inspect it for marks, loose threads or embellishments before storing it.

Addressing small issues early can help prevent further damage. With wear, an occasional thread, bead or decorative element may naturally loosen on intricately embellished garments. Do not pull loose threads. Where possible, retain any detached embellishment and consult an experienced tailor or garment specialist for an appropriate repair.

To help preserve the richness of your garment, avoid prolonged exposure to strong sunlight during storage. Dark, vibrant and naturally dyed fabrics may require particular care and, in some circumstances, may release a small amount of colour. Store contrasting garments separately when appropriate.

When travelling with delicate LIMA pieces, fold garments carefully and avoid placing heavy items directly on top of embroidery or embellishment. For particularly intricate pieces, placing clean tissue between folds can help protect decorative surfaces.

Once you reach your destination, carefully unpack your garment and allow any travel creases to relax. Steam only where permitted by the garment's care instructions.

Where specific care instructions are provided with your bespoke piece, those instructions should always take precedence over this general guide. If you are unsure how to care for a particular bespoke garment, please contact LIMA before cleaning.