Here are some helpful tips to keep your in-the-closet pieces last longer:

JEANS Turn jeans inside out when you launder them as the chemical and abrasive processes that make jeans look aged and comfy are tough on fabric. The inside of the garment takes the stress of the washing process rather than the already fragile outside.

LINGERIE Wash your lingerie by hand with warm water and a gentle soap. The churning action of the washer is usually too much for delicates, although you are safe washing pantyhose and bras by machine if you use a hosiery bag.

PANTYHOSE Put your pantyhose on slowly so you do not poke a toe or fingernail through. Use the palm of your hand rather than your finger tips to ease them up your legs. And put on both legs at the same time. If you pull one leg up to the thigh, you will cause a huge stretch through the gusset.

BRAS Do not wear the same bra two days in a row. The elastic needs a break so it does not get stretched out. Wear a sports bra for working out because a regular bra cannot handle that much action. The creams, deodorants and perspiration that you use can cause elastic to deteriorate, so wash your bras using gentle soap after they have been worn once or twice.

SHOES ‘Always shine your shoes. It does not only extend the life of your shoes, but give people a good impression of you!’ says my friend Hermie. Colored polish will take the beating instead of the leather. Avoid silicone products because they do not allow leather to breathe. Mink oil is a much better choice if you want to waterproof leather. Leave wet shoes to dry where it is cool. If you leave them near a heat source, the leather will cook, leaving it dry and ready to crack.