20 Tips to Make Your Wardrobe Last

Sneakers, Separates, Jeans, and Rings

17. Never leave sneakers in the car. Extreme temperatures―hot or cold―will wear down the rubber, and heat especially can warp EVA (the material in the midsole). “That will mean less shock absorption for your feet when you’re working out,” says Sharon Barbano, a spokesperson for Saucony. For the same reason, don’t dry running shoes on a radiator or in a hot dryer. Let the shoes air-dry.
 

18. Dry-clean all the separates of an outfit together. Otherwise one piece will fade at a faster rate than the others. “And when it comes to dry-cleaning suits,” says John Mahdessian, president of Madame Paulette, a dry cleaner in New York City, don’t overdo it. Three or four times a year is sufficient, as the finishing and pressing process can damage fabric over time.
 

19. Wash (unstained) jeans every third wear. “Most people wash their jeans too often,” says Melissa Ladines, a fit expert for Levi Strauss. Launder them inside out and in cold water. Obsessed with preserving the deep dark rinse? Skip the clothes dryer and let them air-dry, or take them to a dry cleaner.
 

20. Tap the stones of your rings. “If you hear a rattle, the setting is loose and in danger of coming undone,” says Krodel. Get it repaired before you lose a precious gem.