Folding a dress for travel requires some care to ensure it arrives at your destination wrinkle-free. Here's a step-by-step method to help you pack your dress efficiently.
Start by laying your dress flat on a clean, smooth surface. Ensure that it is buttoned or zipped up to maintain its shape. If the dress has a lot of fabric or is particularly long, lay it with the skirt side up, so you can fold the bodice over it.
Next, fold the sleeves inward. If your dress has sleeves, fold them towards the center. This step helps protect the fabric and creates a neater package. For dresses with no sleeves, you can skip this step and proceed to fold the dress in half.
Now, fold the dress in half vertically. Bring the hem of the dress up to meet the neckline. Make sure the edges align as much as possible. This creates a compact, slim shape that fits better into your suitcase or bag.
Once folded in half, you can take the bottom of the dress (the hem) and gently roll it upwards towards the bodice. Rolling minimizes creasing and is especially effective for delicate fabrics. If the dress is too long to roll easily, you can opt for a flat fold instead. For a flat fold, instead of rolling, simply fold the hem of the dress back over the bodice.
If you have additional space in your suitcase, consider placing the folded dress inside a packing cube. This provides extra protection and organization during travel. Alternatively, you can place the dress on top of other clothing items in your suitcase, as cushioning can help absorb knocks and reduce wrinkling.
Lastly, when you reach your destination, unpack your dress as soon as possible. Hang it up to allow any remaining creases to fall out. If necessary, a quick steam from a shower or a fabric steamer can help smooth out any wrinkles.
By following these steps, you can travel with your dress confidently, knowing it will be ready to wear as soon as you arrive.