Decoration is what makes this category worth storing well, and it is also what makes storage awkward.
What actually destroys it
Folds, in anything silk or heavily worked — fibres weaken along the crease.
Snagging, where beads, sequins and hooks catch on the fabric folded against them.
Humidity, which mildews and which tarnishes zari and metal thread.
Insects, in wool and silk.
Light, which fades dyes unevenly, worst on the exposed edge of a folded garment.
What to do instead
- Heavily worked pieces rolled rather than folded where you can, so the work is not pressed flat along a crease
- Tissue between layers, over any beading or embroidery
- Refold occasionally along different lines
- Structured pieces hung on broad hangers; knitwear folded
- Cotton covers, not plastic, for long storage
- Hooks fastened, so they cannot find the fabric next to them
Occasion pieces
Clean before storing, then air. Storing an occasion piece unwashed is how a stain sets invisibly and appears years later — and it is also what attracts insects.
What it costs
Tissue, cotton covers and twenty minutes a year.
Questions people ask
Should heavy lehengas hang?
Not long term. The weight of the work stretches the fabric. Lay them flat or roll them.
Does zari tarnish come off?
Sometimes, carefully, by somebody who knows. Prevent it instead with dry air.
What about sarees specifically?
The saree guide goes further on folds and zari.
More: describing womenswear, common mistakes.