Accessories play an important part in improving personal style and are a great way for you to inject part of your personality into your outfits. Unfortunately, most accessories lose their lustre over time and can look worse for wear as the years pass by. Not only is it disappointing when this happens, but you will also need to fork out money on new accessories to replace the old ones. Luckily, with a few tips and tricks, you can breathe new life into your old things. Here are 4 effective ways to revitalise worn accessories so that you can enjoy them for longer.
Give it a Deep Clean
The first step in revitalising old accessories is to thoroughly clean them. Accessories made entirely of metal, or with metal embellishments, require a gentle cleaner specifically formulated for the material. You can either find a specialist cleaner or you can make it at home. For instance, for silver jewellery, you can use soap, baking soda, and salt. An old toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush will allow you to clean the hard-to-reach areas. Buff metal accessories up with a soft cloth to restore shine. When it comes to leather, you will want to use a cleaner specifically designed for this type of material. Follow it up with a good leather conditioner to prevent cracks and keep it soft.
Add a Protective Layer
Besides cleaning and conditioning your accessories, you can protect them against adverse conditions by using protective waxes and sprays. When it comes to leather goods, leather protection products will help you create a protective barrier that can help repel moisture, stains, and dirt. Before application, make sure the leather is dry and clean. Burrows & Hare has a range of leather protection products to help you extend the life of your accessories. You can view their range on their website, burrowsandhare.co.uk. By applying an added layer of protection, you will rejuvenate the appearance of your leather accessories and make them more durable.
Replace or Repair Hardware
Sadly, in some cases, worn accessories may require a bit more attention than a deep clean. For example, if you have accessories that are damaged or missing elements, your options are to repair or replace them. Embellishments such as gemstones, sequins, and buttons can be replaced, while minor damage can be repaired by a professional.
Repurpose Your Accessories
Consider repurposing old accessories so that you can use them again in a different way. If an accessory is beyond repair, crafty types can salvage certain components to create a brand-new item. For instance, handbag straps and belts can be easily repurposed into handles and keyrings. Even if you’re not particularly adept at arts and crafts, you can seek the help of a professional. As an example, professional jewellers can help take apart certain jewellery, such as a broken 18kt gold bracelet adorned with gemstones, and use the parts to create new pieces of jewellery like a bracelet in a different design or something completely different like a gemstone ring.