The Handbook - How To Guides
 
 
 
31 Days: Style Tips and Tricks
 
Volume 1
 

All the tips and tricks needed to shape up for 2009. Each day brings new, expert advice on how to look your best and live life to the fullest, while having a little fun doing it.

Clothes
Day
2

When to Wash It

How long can your clothes go between washing? In these eco-friendly (and economically tough) times, you don't want to use all that water and electricity on something that's still relatively clean. Besides, doing laundry is such a bitch. See below for our suggestions on how many times you can wear an item before washing—with a few necessary caveats.

 

Dress Shirts

This is dependent on wearing an undershirt underneath and you don't mind a slightly wrinkled back and elbows.

2
to
3
times
 
 

T-shirts

Maybe two or even three, if it's an old favorite you change into at night or on the weekends.

1
time
 
 

Jeans

Denim nerds argue to never wash them. But you'll know it's time when they get baggy at the knee or in the butt—or if you get something on them.

5
to
10
times
 
 

Underwear & Socks

Even if it means washing them in the hotel sink when your luggage is lost.

1
time
 
 

Sweaters

The finer the knit, the more likely you'll have to wash it more frequently. Chunkier knits can withstand more wearings.

8
to
10
times
 
 

Blazers, Suits, Coats

This does require some maintenance, such as removing lint with a roller, airing them out after a wearing and steaming out any wrinkles.

All season long
 
 

FYI

Retain the color in jeans by turning them inside out for their first few times in the washing machine. Or wash by hand with cold water in the sink or bathtub.

 
 
Clothes
Etiquette
Food & Drink
Space
Personal Care
A Month of Tips