This week, the Meta Gala dresses and other iconic fashion were on display. And as usual, we were all wow’d. Every year

History of the Met Gala

As a couture dry cleaner, we are right there with the rest of you come Met Gala season. First, it is the theme announcement. Trying to guess or imagine what the designers will think of next. They surely outdo themselves each and every year.

While we have seen many high-end pieces of fashion walk through our door, there are those extra special items. The Met Gala inspires fashion that goes beyond fashion’s runway. They are pieces of art that may be made of outrageous textiles in gravity-defying shapes.

Initially, the Met Gala was more known simply as a fundraising event for the Costume Institute. Of course, it has clearly evolved into a highly-anticipated and watched fashion event flocked by celebrities and designers. On the first Monday in May, the Met hosts the annual gala.

Today’s Met Gala pushes boundaries and challenges designers to typically create in a way much different than what they are presenting in the own fashion houses. It’s always exciting to see each designer’s individual take on a Met Gala theme. And after the excitement has passed, we are here to clean and preserve those artworks for years to come.

The Importance of the Met Gala in Fashion

The Met Gala, also known as the Costume Institute Gala,  is one of the most high-profile events in the fashion industry. It is also one of the biggest nights of fashion each year. And every year, paparazzi and those at home wait to see what celebrities, fashion designers, and other famous people will be wearing. As soon as the high-profile guests start arriving, fashion magazines and bloggers begin their best dressed lists and who’s who of the evening.

Designers showcase their work on this special evening. Often, attendees are wearing works-of-art and custom-made garments. Many are designed specifically for this event. In addition to the art and excitement, all the exposure also puts a spotlight on these designers.

In addition, designers are also setting the tone for upcoming fashion trends. Breathtaking Met Gala dresses are used as inspiration for more scaled-down versions. If you’re a fan of the Met Gala, you’re aware of some of the stunning but impossible designs that have made their way up their steps. Most people would not have the luxury of people following us to carry our train on an evening out. (If we could, we would though. What a dramatic entrance!)

Rightfully so, the Met Gala has become a cultural phenomenon. Millions of people around the world tune in to see what A-lister attendees are wearing and how they interpret the theme of the event. This widespread interest in the Met Gala has made it an important event in popular culture. It truly an annual iconic fashion moment.

The Met Gala Theme

As a global event, the The Met Gala theme is actually known well-before any of the fashion graces our screen. It is chosen by the Costume Institute’s curator in collaboration with the museum’s staff and outside consultants (e.g. fashion designers, historians, and other experts).

Months before the event, designers and celebrities learn of the Met Gala theme. Then, fashion designers and attendees (mostly, celebrities) collaborate to create an outfit that reflects the theme in their own unique way. It truly is quite amazing what type of creations will be exhibited.

In 2023, the theme was “In Honor of Karl”. The Costume Institute’s Karl Lagerfeld exhibition showcases over 150 pieces of work. Known for his work at many luxury design houses, celebrities and designers paid tribute in their own way.

Like 2023, the themes are often tied to the Costume Institute’s exhibitions. These museum exhibits’ showcase extensive collections of fashion and costume history. Alternatively, a Met Gala themes can also be broader cultural or historical concepts. When deciding on the theme, the main goal is to provide a unifying concept that is also inspirational. After all, it is the memorable fashion that has as tuning in every year.

Past Met Gala Themes Included

• World of Balenciaga (1973)
• The Eighteenth Century Woman (1981)
• Haute Couture (1995)
• The House of Chanel (2005)
• Punk: Chaous to Couture (2013)
• Camp: Notes on Fashion (2019)

Iconic Dresses

They came for the fashion.  At Hallak, we are fortunate enough to see couture evening gowns regularly. But nothing quite compares to the outfits worn at the Met Gala. (Perhaps, a custom wedding gown that shows the same attention to detail and unique fabrics.)

Caring for these items also requires a unique process. Like any garment that comes through our door, the Hallak team examines from top to bottom. We are looking for signs of wear-and-tear, fabric condition, ornamentation, and the design itself. Depending on the item, a cleaning department expert will then determine the amount of spot cleaning, solvent(s) needed, and finishing required.

Fashion designers and their teams work tirelessly on these creations. So it’s important to take the necessary steps in providing the expert care needed to preserve them properly. Of course, we provide the same level of care for any garment that walks through our door.

Until Next Year’s Met Gala

As usual, the Met Gala did not disappoint, We hoped that you enjoyed watching all the red carpet coverage and more. By now, you probably have scrolled through your feeds repeatedly and read countless articles on who wore what. You’ve picked out your favorites and your not-so-favorites.

Until next year Met Gala dresses, we can’t wait to  see you.

Happy Earth Day

Happy Earth Day 2023 from Hallak Cleaners!  While every day should basically be Earth Day, Hallak Cleaners likes to celebrate today in a special way. Each year, we pass out eco-friendly tote bags at both of our locations. They are available for both customers AND community friends!

Earth Day, Every Day

As we celebrate Earth Day, it is important to acknowledge the impact that our daily activities have on the environment. From transportation to energy consumption, there are numerous ways in which we contribute to climate change. Hallak is  committed to providing eco-friendly services that minimize our carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

Additional Ways to Celebrate Earth Day

• Buy half your food locally
• Reusable tote bags – for everything
• Mindful meal planning – less food waste
• Inspect and maintain appliances – extend their lives
• Embrace vintage…everything (clothes, furniture and more)

In addition to our tote bag giveaway, Hallak Cleaners promotes environmental-friendly practices in other ways. Like right in our plant!

• Cleaning solvents are recycled through state-of-the-art filtering and distillation equipment
• Meeting and exceeding clean air and safe water standards
• Awarded EP Certificate of Environmental Stewardship
• Given four green leaves by the Green Cleaners Council
• Recycling paper and cardboard waste – and hanger program
• Safe and responsible method to collect and dispense dry cleaning waste

And there’s more. Visit our Think Green page for even more fun facts.  And feel free to ask one of our team members. They would be happy to share with you.

As one of the only couture cleaners in the world, we take pride that all garment care takes place in-house, by our team.  For over 57 years, Hallak is a family-owned and operated couture cleaner been serving the New York Metro area.

Please keep in mind that Hallak’s Household Sale starts April 24th and runs through May 12th. Our talented interior team is offering 20% off household items such as: area rugs, window treatments, and bedding. Call (212) 832-0750 or email info@hallak.com.

Winter Sports: How to Wash Ski Pants and Ski Jacket

How to wash ski pants or how to wash ski jacket questions may not be the first on your mind – especially this winter. The New York area has not seen a lot of snow.

For many, this means traveling up North, Aspen, and other areas to have the fully winter experience. And if you are an avid winter sports person, you really had to travel for some powdery snow.

Why You Should Care for Winter Outerwear Regularly

Skiwear and snowboarding outerwear can be quite pricey. These pieces are an investment so it’s best to make their maintenance a priority.

Regularly cleaning your skiwear is important for several reasons. First, skiwear can become dirty, and sweaty after a long day on the slopes; this can not only be unpleasant but also compromise the performance and durability of the clothing. Dirt, dust, and other debris can accumulate on the surface and clog the pores of the fabric, reducing breathability and waterproofness, and making it harder for moisture to escape. The body’s sweat and oils can also attract bacteria and cause odors to develop over time. If left untreated, these oder and stains can be difficult to remove.

Regular cleaning can help to remove these contaminants and restore the function and freshness of your skiwear. It can also prolong the life of the clothing by reducing wear and tear, preventing stains from setting in, and maintaining the integrity of the fabric and insulation.

How to Wash Ski Pants

If you are attempting to wash ski pants at home, the first step is to check the care label. Follow the instructions on the proper cycle, detergent, and water temperature. In addition, it’s important to put in the wash with other like items requiring same level of care. It is often suggested that these types of outerwear have an additional wash using an in-wash waterproofing solvent.

Research outdoor gear detergents and treatments that are intended for these specific items. Fortunately, there are many eco-friendly options available!  Find the right solvent for your washing needs. Some of these solvents are available for full cleaning, spot cleaning, waterproof treatments, and more. As always, follow the instructions carefully.

Without a waterproofing treatment, you will start to notice a buildup from outdoor elements that result in stains. If you haven’t washed your outerwear in awhile, you may also want to test your items for water repellency. Spray some water on your jacket or ski pants.  Did the water bead up? Then, you are fine. If you notice that the water spread (and started to soak in), then it’s time to re-treat.

How to Wash Ski Jackets

Washing your ski jackets follow the same steps as above. However, jackets tend to show a bit more wear-and-tear. Typically, we will notice trouble areas near the neck and wrists. It’s best to examine them regularly.

Also, there can be additional maintenance due to repeated zipper use. To keep them working, consider applying a lubricant made specifically for zippers. Of course, you will also have to remove build-up every once in awhile. If your zipper has a protection flap, do your best to use to prevent water damage; this can result in further zipper issues.

If you end up with zipper issues, then it may be time to bring in for a professional inspection. Zipper problems do NOT always result in a pricey replacement. In fact, most dry cleaners would prefer to repair and/or work with the manufacturer’s original zipper. Fortunately, most dry cleaners’ repair team have many tricks up their sleeves to help with the typical zipper issues.

The Importance of Skiwear Care

Cleaning skiwear also helps to maintain its appearance and performance. Besides dirt, grime, and stains making your outerwear look worn and shabby, they can also affect its ability to repel water and snow. By cleaning regularly, you can ensure that your skiwear looks and performs at its best.  Overall, regularly cleaning your skiwear is an essential part of proper care and maintenance. So read your care labels or bring to the professionals to maximize the longevity, performance, and enjoyment of your investment.

And remember that cleaning your garments will not cause damage. Waiting too long to clean items may actually cause damage that may not be reversible.  Questions? Call (212) 832-0750 or stop by our store today.  Ready for a pick-up? Schedule online, try our app or give us a call!