Vintage silk has already lived one life. A little care and it will live several more.
Washing
Hand wash gently, or machine wash on a delicate or silk cycle.
Cold water, 20°C maximum.
No spin cycle.
Dry flat, away from direct sunlight.
Or dry clean
If you would rather not handle it yourself, dry cleaning by a professional is the safest route. It is the one we recommend for the pieces lined in cotton velvet.
Ironing
A steam iron on low heat is enough to relax the fabric. Never press directly on the embroidery.
Between wearings
Silk likes air. Hang the piece overnight rather than washing it after every wear, and store it away from direct light.
What is normal
Slight irregularities in the weave, a thread that sits differently, a colour softened by time. These come from the sari's first life. They are not defects.