So, you’ve got a sharp suit jacket that you need to pack. Maybe it’s for a business trip, or perhaps you’re just trying to save space in your closet.
Either way, folding a suit jacket without turning it into a wrinkled mess is an essential skill. Let’s cut to the chase and see how you can achieve this without needing an iron later.
The Basic Idea
Folding a suit jacket isn’t rocket science, but it does require some basic steps to make sure it comes out looking sharp. Forget all the fluff and focus on the essentials. You need a flat, clean surface and a bit of patience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Folding Your Suit Jacket
Step 1: Lay It Flat
First things first, find a flat surface. A bed or a table will do the trick. Lay your jacket flat, face down. Smooth out any obvious wrinkles with your hands.
Step 2: Fold the Shoulders Inward
Now, take one shoulder and fold it towards the center of the back. Repeat with the other shoulder. You should have the jacket folded vertically in half, with the sleeves lying flat.
Step 3: Fold It in Half Horizontally
Next, fold the jacket in half horizontally. Bring the bottom hem up to meet the collar. Smooth out any wrinkles as you go. Congratulations, you’ve folded your suit jacket in the most basic way possible.
Advanced Techniques for Wrinkle-Free Folding
If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious and want to ensure your jacket stays as wrinkle-free as possible, there’s a slightly more advanced method. It’s not complicated, just a bit more involved.
The Inside-Out Fold
This technique is my personal favorite. It works wonders and is surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it.
Step 1: Turn One Shoulder Inside Out
First, turn one shoulder inside out. Just one, not both.
Step 2: Tuck the Other Shoulder Inside
Next, tuck the opposite shoulder into the inside-out shoulder. The jacket will now look like a weird hybrid of inside-out and right-side-out. It’s supposed to look this way.
Step 3: Align the Lapels
Make sure the lapels are aligned neatly. This helps maintain the jacket’s shape and structure.
Step 4: Fold in Half Vertically
Fold the jacket vertically, bringing the two shoulders together.
Step 5: Fold Horizontally
Finally, fold the jacket horizontally, bringing the bottom hem to the collar, just like in the basic method.
Tips for Avoiding Wrinkles
While the folding method is crucial, there are a few extra tips to keep your suit jacket looking pristine.
- Use Tissue Paper: Place tissue paper inside the folds to help maintain the jacket’s shape and reduce wrinkles.
- Invest in a Garment Bag: For those who travel frequently, a garment bag can be a lifesaver. It keeps your suit jacket flat and protected.
- Hang It Up ASAP: As soon as you reach your destination, hang your jacket up. Let gravity help smooth out any minor wrinkles that may have formed.
Emergency Fixes for Wrinkles
Despite all your best efforts, sometimes wrinkles happen. Here’s how to deal with them:
Steam It Out
Most hotels have irons with a steam setting. Hang your jacket in the bathroom while you shower to let the steam work its magic.
For a more direct approach, use the steam setting on the iron. Hold it a few inches away from the fabric and let the steam penetrate without actually pressing the iron onto the jacket.
Use a Damp Cloth
Lay your jacket flat and place a damp cloth over the wrinkled areas. Use an iron on a low setting to gently press over the cloth. This helps to steam out wrinkles without damaging the fabric.
Roll It
This might sound counterintuitive, but rolling your jacket can help reduce wrinkles. Lay it flat, roll it up tightly, and let it sit for a while. Unroll it, and you might find some of the wrinkles have miraculously disappeared.
Final Thoughts
Folding a suit jacket without turning it into a wrinkled disaster isn’t a Herculean task. With the right techniques and a bit of care, you can keep your jacket looking sharp and ready to impress.
If you opt for the basic fold or the more advanced inside-out method, the key is to handle the fabric gently and avoid crushing it under a pile of other clothes.
Remember, the ultimate goal is to keep your jacket wrinkle-free, not to spend hours obsessing over every fold. Follow these steps, use the tips for avoiding wrinkles, and you’ll be all set. For tips on maintaining other garments, check out our guide on “How to Wash Wool“.