Master the Art of Organization
Before any show, dressers meticulously organize every single piece of an outfit. Each model's looks are hung in order on a rack, often marked with their name and a photo of the complete ensemble, from
the dress down to the specific earrings and shoes. Buttons are unbuttoned and zippers are unzipped to make changes faster. For your own closet, this translates to planning outfits ahead of time for big events. Lay everything out, including accessories, to ensure a stress-free experience when you're getting ready. Grouping items for a specific trip or week can save you from last-minute panic.
Build a Go-To Emergency Kit
A dresser's kit is their secret weapon against any wardrobe malfunction. Key items include double-sided fashion tape for falling hems or gaping necklines, safety pins in multiple sizes, pre-threaded needles for quick repairs, and a powerful stain-remover pen. Other essentials are anti-static spray to combat cling and a lint roller for a perfect finish. You can create a mini version for your home, office, or car. Having fashion tape, a few safety pins, and stain wipes on hand can solve most common clothing disasters, from a popped button to an unexpected spill.
Embrace the Power of Steam
Backstage, you'll rarely see a traditional iron. For delicate, embellished, or structurally complex garments, a steamer is the tool of choice. Steam gently removes wrinkles without the risk of scorching or crushing fragile fabrics like tulle, silk, or sequins. It’s also much faster, which is crucial when time is limited. Investing in a quality handheld steamer for your home can be a game-changer. It's perfect for refreshing everything from a silk blouse to a tailored blazer, giving your clothes that professionally-prepped look without the harshness of direct heat.
Protect Garments During Changes
One of the biggest challenges is getting a model into a garment without smudging it with makeup. The pro trick is simple: a lightweight silk or nylon scarf. By placing the scarf over the model's face and hair before pulling a garment over their head, dressers protect the clothes from foundation and lipstick stains. This is an easy hack to adopt, especially when dealing with light-colored or tight-necked tops. It prevents costly dry-cleaning bills and keeps your favorite pieces looking new for longer.
Handle Quick Fixes Like a Pro
Even with perfect preparation, things go wrong. A hem can fall, a zipper can stick, or a strap can break just moments before the runway walk. Dressers are masters of the immediate fix. A falling hem can be quickly secured with double-stick fabric tape or even a strategically placed safety pin. For a stuck zipper, rubbing the lead of a pencil or a bar of soap along the teeth can help it glide. These quick solutions aren't necessarily permanent, but they're incredibly effective for getting through an important event without a fashion catastrophe.
Think About Post-Wear Care
After the show, the work isn't over. Dressers carefully hang up each look, ensuring it's ready for press appointments or to be returned to the designer in perfect condition. They inspect for any damage and treat stains immediately. The lesson here is to not just toss your clothes aside after a long day or night. Take a moment to hang them properly, check for any spots or loose threads, and decide if they need to be cleaned before being put away. This small habit reduces wear and tear and keeps your wardrobe in better shape over time.
