The Summer Clothes Worth Caring For — and How to Make Them Last
We’re living in a “fewer, better” moment — investing in elevated staples instead of fast fashion. But high-quality linen, silk, denim, and cotton basics deserve care that matches their price tag. This guide walks you through summer’s most-loved clothing — and exactly how to wash, store, and treat each one so it lasts longer, looks better, and feels worth every penny.
1. Linen Staples
Wrinkly in the right way — but still delicate.
What to wear:
How to care:
Wash cold, preferably in a mesh bag
Use a gentle detergent like Laundress Delicate Wash
Air dry flat or hang with a padded hanger
Steam, don’t iron (try the Steamery Cirrus 3)
2. Silk & Summer Knits
Luxury basics that deserve a little extra effort.
What to wear:
How to care:
Hand wash or delicate cycle in a mesh bag (I know I mention these a lot but they really take care of your things!)
Lay flat to dry — no hanger stretch
3. Crisp Cotton for Summer (& beyond)
The ultimate warm-weather fabric — until it gets stiff or shrunken.
What to wear:
Leset Kyoto Pant *I have these a 2 colors I love them so much
Crisp Cotton Button Downs
Care Notes:
Cotton is easy — until it’s not. It shrinks fast, gets stiff when over-dried, and can start to fade if you over-wash. Your move? Keep it simple: wash cold, skip the dryer (or pull it early), and finish with a steamer for that effortless crisp-but-not-pressed look.
Laundry Tools We Love:
Dirty Labs Detergent– gentle but smells like vacation
Steamery Cirrus 3 Steamer – a must for button-ups
Wool dryer balls – if you must tumble
4. Good Jeans Deserve Better Care
Vintage and premium denim still needs care
What to wear:
Vintage Levi’s 501s - Shop RLT has an great selection if you’re in the LA area. Ebay can also great but can be challenging to find the right fit if you’re not trying on in person.
How to care:
Wash cold, inside out
Spot clean between wears with a fabric spray
Air dry to preserve fit and indigo but if you need to pop in the dryer do so on low heat
Use a specialty denim wash for long-term care
5. Travel-Ready Sets & Swim
For when your packing cube deserves luxury.
What to wear:
Hunza G Crinkle Swimsuit *One of my favorite brands because it fits every body type. This style is one of my current favorites.
How to care:
Washable Silk - Wash cold on delicate with a silk-safe detergent. Skip the spin cycle, skip the dryer — hang or lay flat to dry and steam to finish.
Swimsuit - Rinse after wear, hand wash cold, and lay flat to dry. Keep it out of direct sun to preserve the stretch and shine.
Terry - Wash cold, inside out, with a gentle detergent. Skip the dryer — or pull it early and lay flat to keep the terry soft and the shape intact.
Final Takeaway
Good clothes deserve better care — not just for longevity, but for how they feel every time you wear them. Build a wardrobe you love and treat it well — your laundry basket (and your wallet) will thank you.