MATERIAL AND CARE
This dress is made from Raw Ahimsa silk. It's a rustic handwolven fabric, some pilling may occur naturally. It's is not as shiny and glossy as normal Mulberry silk, by texture it might look similar to linen, yet has all qualities of silk. Cocoons for this silk were collected by hand in the north of India after the butterfly already had left. It got its name from a Hindi word 'Ahimsa' which means 'Non-violence'. This method does not kill the silkworms to extract silk. It is also known as peace or vegan silk.
Raw silk has a slightly different texture and structure compared to traditional silk fabrics. Here are some specific care instructions for raw silk garments:
Handwashing: Like traditional silk, handwashing is often the best method for cleaning raw silk garments. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause raw silk to shrink or lose its texture.
Rinsing: Rinse the garment thoroughly with cool water to remove all traces of detergent. Again, avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can distort the texture of raw silk.
Drying: Lay the raw silk garment flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid hanging raw silk garments, as they are heavier when wet and hanging them can stretch the fabric. Additionally, direct sunlight can fade the color of raw silk, so it's best to dry them in a shaded area.
Ironing: If ironing is necessary, use a low to medium heat setting on the iron and place a cloth between the iron and the raw silk to prevent direct contact. Iron the garment on the reverse side while it is still slightly damp to remove wrinkles.
Storage: Store raw silk garments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Like traditional silk, avoid hanging raw silk garments for extended periods, as this can cause stretching. Instead, fold them neatly and store them in a breathable garment bag or drawer.
Professional Cleaning: For stubborn stains or delicate raw silk garments, consider taking them to a professional dry cleaner experienced in handling silk.
By following these care instructions, you can help maintain the natural beauty and texture of raw silk garments for years to come.
