We all love that feeling of slipping into a favourite garment, the one that fits just right and makes us feel like we can conquer the world (or at least the commute). But what if we could hold onto that feeling, and those cherished clothes, for even longer? In a world of fast fashion and throwaway culture, learning how to properly care for our clothes is not just practical; it's a small act of rebellion, a way to honour the resources that went into making them, and a step towards a more sustainable way of living. Think of it as nurturing your wardrobe, ensuring it flourishes like the wildest fig, season after season.

The secret to longevity lies in understanding the unique needs of different fabrics. Treating a delicate silk blouse the same way you wash your gym leggings is a recipe for disaster.

So, let's delve into the gentle art of garment guardianship, fabric by fabric:

The Classics:

• Cotton: Our trusty friend! Generally robust, but still appreciates a bit of TLC. Wash in cool or lukewarm water to prevent shrinking and fading. Avoid harsh detergents and high heat in the dryer, as this can weaken the fibres and cause excessive wrinkling. Line drying is your cotton's best mate!

• Polyester: A synthetic superhero known for its durability and resistance to shrinking and stretching. Wash in cool or lukewarm water. It tends to hold onto odours, so consider a longer wash cycle or a detergent designed for synthetics. Low heat in the dryer is usually fine, but be mindful of static build-up – a dryer sheet can help.

• Recycled Polyester: Just as durable as its virgin counterpart, but with a planet-friendly backstory! Care for it in the same way you would regular polyester – cool or lukewarm wash, and low heat drying.

The Stretch Squad:

• Elastane (Lycra/Spandex): These stretchy wonders give our clothes their comfortable give. However, they're sensitive to heat. Always wash in cool water and avoid the dryer like the plague! High heat will break down the elastic fibres, leading to loss of shape and that dreaded saggy bottom. Line drying is essential. Also, be mindful of harsh chemicals and chlorine, which can also damage the elasticity.

The Delicate Darlings:

• Silk: Oh, the luxury! But it requires gentle handling. Hand washing in cool water with a mild detergent designed for delicates is the safest bet. If using a machine, choose the delicate cycle and protect the garment in a mesh bag. Never put silk in the dryer! Gently roll it in a towel to remove excess water and then hang it to dry away from direct sunlight.

• Wool: Another natural fibre that needs a delicate touch. Hand wash in cool water with a wool-specific detergent to prevent felting (shrinking and matting). Avoid agitation and wringing. Gently press out excess water and lay flat to dry, away from direct heat. Some wool items can be dry-cleaned.

General Tips for a Longer Wardrobe Life:

• Read the Label: Those little tags are your garment's care instructions – heed them!

• Wash Less: Over-washing can wear down fibres and fade colours. If an item isn't visibly dirty, consider airing it out instead.

• Use a Gentle Detergent: Harsh chemicals can be tough on fabrics. Opt for milder formulas.

• Separate Your Laundry: Wash lights and darks separately to prevent colour bleeding.

• Protect During Washing: Use mesh laundry bags for delicate items to prevent snagging and stretching.

• Master the Art of Stain Removal: Tackle stains promptly to prevent them from setting. Research fabric-specific stain removal methods.

• Store Clothes Properly: Fold knits to prevent stretching and hang structured items on appropriate hangers. Keep clothes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Mend and Repair: A little stitch in time saves nine! Learn basic sewing skills or find a good tailor for repairs.

By adopting these mindful practices, we can extend the lifespan of our clothes, reduce textile waste, and cultivate a wardrobe that lasts. It's about treating our garments with the respect they deserve, ensuring they remain as vibrant and useful as a well-cared-for fig tree, bearing the fruit of good style for years to come.

5 Ways to embrace slow living

You wake up to the sound of your alarm (which is also your inbox, your social media feed, and your news source). You grab your phone before your first sip of coffee or tea. The commute is a blur of emails, half-thoughts, and mental to-do lists. By the time the day is over, you’re drained, scrolling mindlessly, and wondering where all the time went. Sounds familiar? You’re not alone.

We live in a world that glorifies speed—faster results, instant replies, quick meals, and productivity hacks. But at what cost? Burnout, stress, and the feeling that life is slipping through our fingers. Slow living is the antidote. It’s not about doing nothing; it’s about doing things with intention. It’s about reclaiming time, presence, and joy in everyday moments.

What is slow living, really?

Slow living is a conscious choice to step away from the culture of hustle and embrace a more mindful, intentional pace. It’s about quality over quantity, depth over speed. It’s sipping your coffee or tea instead of gulping it down. It’s reading a book without checking notifications every two minutes. It’s walking instead of rushing, cooking instead of grabbing takeout (when possible), and making space for things that truly matter.

Why slow living matters more than ever

Our modern world is built for speed, but humans? Not so much. Studies show that chronic stress leads to anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues like heart disease. The irony? Slowing down can actually make you more productive, not less. A well-rested, mindful mind is sharper, more creative, and resilient. Imagine working with focus instead of frantic multitasking—quality work in less time, with energy left for the things (and people) you love.

How to start living slower (without quitting your job and moving to the countryside)

Slow living isn’t about rejecting modern life; it’s about reshaping it. Here's how you can start:

1. Create micro-pauses in your day
Not everyone can take a month-long retreat, but you can take one deep breath before opening an email. You can step outside for five minutes of fresh air between meetings. Small pauses rewire your brain for presence.

2. Set boundaries with technology
Your phone doesn’t need to be the first and last thing you see every day. Try a “no-phone morning” or a social media-free evening. Digital detox moments help reclaim mental space.

3. Eat mindfully
Ever finished a meal without really tasting it? Slow living means savouring your food, chewing properly, and enjoying the ritual of eating rather than rushing through it.

4. Do one thing at a time
Multitasking is overrated. When you focus on one task—whether it’s writing, talking to a friend, or cooking—you experience it fully, and you’ll do it better.

5. Prioritise rest like it’s a deadline
Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s fuel. Whether it’s getting enough sleep, taking breaks, or simply allowing yourself to do nothing, it’s essential for both your wellbeing and efficiency.

The wildest (and wisest) fig of all: A life well-lived

Slow living isn’t about laziness; it’s about living with purpose. It’s about choosing presence over pressure, depth over distraction. And the best part? You don’t need to find more time—you just need to take it.

So, what’s one small way you can slow down today? Share your thoughts, and let’s make intentional living the new normal. 🍃