How should an embroidered georgette lehenga be cared for to last multiple seasons?

A well-cared-for embroidered lehenga can last decades — the wrong care can destroy it in one wash. Here is a comprehensive care guide:

After wearing:

• Air the lehenga in a well-ventilated area (not direct sun) for 2–3 hours before storing — removes body heat and moisture
• Spot clean any stains immediately while fresh — set stains are much harder to remove
• Never store a lehenga without airing — trapping sweat in stored fabric causes permanent yellow staining

Cleaning:

• Dry clean for heavily embroidered pieces — this is non-negotiable for zardozi, mirror work, and heavy sequin lehengas
• For lightly embroidered georgette: hand wash very gently in cold water, minimal agitation, no soaking

Storage:

• Wrap in muslin (never plastic)
• Store flat for heavy embroidered pieces — hanging causes embroidery weight to pull base fabric
• Refold along different lines every 6 months
• Silica gel sachets nearby to prevent humidity damage