Lamé is a type of fabric woven or knit with thin metallic yarns. Lamé comes in different varieties, depending on the composition of the other threads in the fabric. Vintage lamé was gold or silver in color but today you can find a range of colors available.

Vintage lamé was made with true metallic threads that could tarnish with age. Today's fabrics are mainly synthetic and some can even be machine-washed.

Lamé is often lined to give the garment structure and shape. Many of those linings and interfacings are not machine washable and must be dry cleaned. When purchasing a garment, if the label states "Dry Clean Only" you should follow the instructions.

Metallic yarn fabrics are attractive but not very serviceable. Friction and mechanical action in wear may cause the fragile metallic yarn to snap. Stains and perspiration may cause the metallic yarn to tarnish. A bit of lemon juice and salt can remove tarnish from metallic yarns. Mix the lemon juice and salt and apply with a cotton swab. Let work for several minutes and then blot away tarnish with a white cloth dipped in cool water (wring until almost dry).

To treat stains, carefully blot away the stain with a clean white cloth while it is fresh. Then apply a bit of clean water and blot some more. Follow care label directions as soon as possible.

 

Be a part of the Laundry Community

• Sign Up for the FREE Weekly Newsletter
• Like Mary's Laundry Tips on Facebook

• Follow About Laundry on Pinterest
• Follow @AboutLaundry on Twitter