Hallak Cleaners

The Couture Cleaner

Donna Serino

Summer Coming to an End

by Leave a Comment

Summer coming to an end…

 

Summer coming to an end…and you’re left with memories full of family and friends.

For many, there is a love-hate relationship with Labor Day.  You look forward to the long weekend – especially since it’s usually full of fun and relaxation.  On the other hand, you know that this means school is starting soon, the weather will be changing soon, and  shorter days.

Fortunately, you have boots, sweaters and statement coats to look forward to.  Or is that just us?

While we love our summer clothes, there is something so comforting about the fall.  October nights in the backyard, pumpkin picking with the family, preparation for the holiday season, etc. Of course, there is also the dreaded seasonal switch.

Hallak can make your wardrobe switch as easy as possible. Schedule your pick-up so you can clear up that space in your closet. We offer both box and cold storage.  

As a refresher, here is the difference between your options:

Box Storage

Perfect for your actual summer clothing. There is a one-time account fee. You can add and remove pieces throughout your storage season. All garments must be cleaned prior to storage. Box storage is a safe, secure, temperature-controlled environment.

Cold Storage

This is the ideal solution for all your outerwear. You can choose to have your items stored as-is, cleaned, etc. Coats and jackets are also stored in a safe, secure, temperature-controlled, cold environment. Many customers opt for Hallak’s cold storage for their furs, leathers and other cold-weather favorites.

And it’s so easy. You can complete one of our storage forms to provide instructions on each piece. Schedule your pick-up with our online form or on the Hallak app. Then, a driver will swing by to pick up your warm weather garments. Stressful summer coming to an and switch DONE.

July Men’s Fashion Picks 2021

by Leave a Comment

July Men’s Fashion Picks 2021

Wondering what July men’s fashion picks (and beyond) are?  Finish the rest of the summer off in style.

This summer, your ability to stay stylish and cool has certainly been challenged. When it is a sticky 90+ degrees, the last thing you may care about is looking good. You just want to stay cool! Fortunately, there are some great materials and cuts out there that can do both.

The Fabrics

  • Light cotton. The natural fibre allows air to flow through the fabric. This airflow allows those damp areas to dry out.
  • Linen. The loose woven, neutral fabric allows heat to escape. Plus, it allows moisture to absorb and dry quickly.
  • Jersey. This familiar knit fabric that is often a combination of fibre such as wool, cotton and synthetic. In the summer, it’s best to look for 100% cotton jersey.

Your Summer Workwear*

  • Slim-Fit Cuban Collar. Looks great and will keep you cool.
  • Classic Polo. Choose lightweight natural fabric – and then get in every color.
  • Comfort Jogger. Perfect pants for your remote summer position.
  • Essential Chino. Lightweight, looks office-ready and easy care.

*Hallak offers both dry cleaning & wash-and-fold services. Your entire wardrobe is in the best of hands.

Finish Your Summer Outfit Off Right*

  • Grown-up Leather Backpack.  They worked throughout your school years so make it work now. By upping the quality, you can bring all your necessities with you and still look stylish.
  • Sport Utility Carryall.  The carryall is great for the man on the go. Work to gym. Check. Work to cocktail hour. Check. Work to gym to cocktail hour. Check, check, check.

*Hallak’s expert accessory care also includes your luggage, briefcase, messenger bag, backpack, etc. Request a quote today.

Love looking good, but not a fan of creating outfits? Fortunately, you have many options. Personal stylist, boutique expert assistance, wardrobe subscription services, fashion magazines/blogs and more.  There is also the minimalist route, which is simply staying tonal. A monochromatic look in different shades always looks polished.

Unsure of how to care for your summer wardrobe? Feel free to stop by either of our store locations or call a team member today at (212) 832-0750. At Hallak, we are happy to help. Have a great summer!

Best Fabric for Summer

by Leave a Comment

Updated 7/14/2024

Here are the top 9 summer fabrics to choose from.

With the scorching heat and humid weather, finding ways to stay cool becomes a top priority. Finding the right fabric and clothing is a great way to beat the heat.

The best summer fabrics not only help you beat the heat but also add a touch of style and elegance to your wardrobe. From lightweight linens to breathable cottons, these materials are designed to keep you fresh and look great. We’ll explore the top summer fabrics that combine functionality with fashion. This way, you remain effortlessly chic all season long.

What to Look for in Your Summer Wardrobe

When selecting summer fashion, there are several key factors to consider. Below, we will review the top qualities to look out for. Before you make your next wardrobe purchase, consider what type of clothing your lifestyle requires. Dresses that can take on the subway heat and then air conditioning? Suits that can withstand a long summer day at the conference?

Let’s take a look at some qualities to prioritize for:

  • Breathability. Breathable material allows air to flow freely. By allowing air to flow, a breathable option prevents excessive sweating and discomfort.
  • Moisture-wicking. Look for fabric that efficiently absorbs and removes moisture. You’ll be thankful as your skin stays cool and dry throughout the day!
  • Lightweight. Through touch, you can feel a fabric’s weight. In the summer months, choose lighter fabrics that don’t trap heat or weight you down.
  • Flexibility. Depending on your activity, stretchy material provides you ease of movement (and nicer fit).
  • Durability. Due to sweat, you are more likely to wash after each wear. Better quality fabric costs more but withstand frequent wear and washing.

Keep these benefits in mind so you can choose the perfect choice for summer.  Discover some of the most popular light materials for warmer weather below. Choose a comfortable fabric in light colors are also a good choice. (Darker colors absorb heat, which only contribute to any uncomfortable feeling.)

Make room for your summer wardrobe with Hallak’s clothing storage options. Schedule your pick-up today.

Summer clothings and accessories laying out. White tank dress, earrings, and straw hat.

Choice for Summer Clothing: Hot Months Top Popular Fabrics

Time to embrace lightweight, breathable fabrics. New York City summers call for fashion that looks good and keeps you cool. Choosing the right fabric can actually lower your body heat and skin drier. (And no sweat stains!) Here are some fabrics to help you survive the hot weather.

Linen: A natural fabric made from flax plants. Its loose weave allows for excellent air circulation. Linen clothing benefits include breathable qualities and moisture-wicking properties. Time only enhances its charm. It’s no surprise linen fabrics are a timeless summer choice.

Cotton: Cotton fabric is a natural summer favorite. Lightweight and soft, air flows freely. It also has amazing absorption (and quick drying) properties. Perfect for those sweaty days! Cotton garments are always a go-to. They are great for everyday wear!

Chambray: Love denim? Then, you’ll love its summer cousin – chambray. A soft, breathable, lightweight fabric. Typically, it’s made of cotton and has a plain weave.Great fabric for summer dress, shirt, or shorts. So swap those denim shorts for something cooler!

Seersucker: Class, puckered fabric that screams “summer fashion”! The texture means built-in ventilation. It leaves some room between your body and clothing. Great for summer suits and dresses. See why seersucker is a summer wardrobe staple now?

Rayon: Semi-synthetic fabric with a silk-like appearance and smooth texture. Made from wood pulp and natural cellulose plant fibers. Fashion enthusiasts love its moisture absorption and breathable properties. Especially great for people with sensitive skin. Its gentle feel reduces irritation.

Tencel: Eco-friendly and made from eucalyptus tree natural fibres. Tencel provides a smooth, cool touch. Highly absorbent, it’s a good go-to choose for summer activewear such as bike shorts. You’ll be cool, dry, and comfortable all day long. Making it an excellent choice for casual wear and more.

Silk: For centuries, silk has held top spot for luxury fabrics. What to expect from this ideal fabric? Unparalleled softness, lux appearance, and timeless appeal. Its natural fibers allow air circulation and overall temperature-regulating properties. Pretty amazing, right? Silk keeps you cool in the heat – and cozy in your AC office. Worth every penny!

Nylon: Durable and lightweight, this man-made fabric is a staple in the fashion industry. Originally developed as a silk substitute, nylon offers moisture-wicking properties. Moisture is drawn away from your body. Perspiration evaporates quickly – and you are left feeling dry and cool.

Micro modal (or a modal blend): Made from sustainably harvested beechwood, micro modal is a highly coveted fabric. Its fine fibers create a lightweight, breathable fabric perfect for humid days. And it also absorbs and draws moisture away from the body. Durable and fade-resistant, you can see why it’s a top choice among luxury fashion designers. Fabric technology at its best!

Bamboo: Another eco-friendly popular choice, this natural fabric boasts exceptionable breathability. (It’s why bamboo fabric is often found in bed sheets too.) With natural moisture-wicking management, the airy texture keeps you feeling fresh.

And that’s only a basic breakdown. You can pick a cotton blend, linen blends, and more. Experiment to find your perfect blend for the warmest summer months.

Keeping Your Summer Wardrobe Fresh

When it comes to keeping your summer fabrics clean, dry cleaning is a must. Again, it’s why you should choose warm weather garments that comes in a more durable fabric. You don’t want to skimp on your clothing care. Body odor and summer sweats can wreak havoc on your clothing.

Dry cleaning offers a gentle and effective solution for keeping summer fabrics fresh. Unlike home washing, professional cleaners use solvents that clean without causing damage. One of the main advantages of dry cleaning is that it removes dirt and odor while preserving the fabric’s natural properties.

Additionally, dry cleaning helps to prevent shrinking, fading, and wrinkling. (And we know you have run into this issue in the past. We may have even already seen some of you with your home washing ‘oops’.) Our dry cleaning experts are trained in handling all different types of fabrics. With a keep attention to detail, you are guaranteed proper care for even your most delicate items.

Investing in dry cleaning for your summer fabrics not only keeps them clean, but it also extends their lifespan. Leave your garment care to the professionals. So you can enjoy wearing them for many summers to come while avoiding the wear and tear that comes with regular washing.

White summer fabrics hanging up on a wardrobe stand.

How Your Lifestyle Affects Your Fashion

In the more extreme months, it is especially important to consider your lifestyle’s needs and how it relates to your wardrobe. From outdoor activities to long work days, we got you covered.

Climate and Weather Conditions

Your local climate play a significant role in determining the most suitable summer fabrics. New York and New Jersey are known for waves of hot and humid weather. You are going to want fabrics that offer maximum breathability and moisture absorption. Quick-drying fabrics that wick away moisture from your body are even better!

Personal Comfort and Skin Sensitivity

Sensitive skin? Everyone’s skin reacts differently to each individual fabric. Some fabrics are rougher to the touch and may cause skin irritations. Then, you add perspiration and heat. Even softer fabric can cause irritation. If you are particularly sensitive, choose natural fibers that have hypoallergenic properties. There are also more modern synthetic fabrics that are gentle options. Always test fabrics, if possible, to ensure they provide the comfort you need for all-day wear.

Activity Level and Lifestyle

Spend a lot of time outdoors or exercising? Active individuals need fabrics with superior moisture-wicking properties and durability. These garments are going to be washed a lot. Choose fabrics that also help with regulating your body temperature. Warm-weather activities call for specific garments just as much as colder months do.

Style Preferences and Trends

Fashion is an expression of personal style, and your fabric choices should align with your aesthetic preferences. Stay informed about current fashion trends to select fabrics that are not only functional but also stylish. Lightweight, flowy silhouettes are always in vogue for summer dresses. Consider how different fabrics drape and their versatility in creating various summer looks.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Environmental impact and sustainability of fabrics are increasingly important considerations. Opting for eco-friendly material helps reduce your carbon footprint. Sustainable choices contribute to the health of the planet. They also often result in higher-quality, longer-lasting garments. Win-win!

Explore the Different Summer Fabrics

Now that you know what fabrics to look out for, purchase a few different items in them. You may find that you prefer a few compared to others. While we have run down each summer fabric’s benefits, it really comes down to how comfortable you are. Does this fabric meet your body’s (and wardrobe’s) unique needs?

Summer Fashion Shopping Tips

Shopping for summer fabrics involves more than a feeling the material and checking the price tag.

  • Start with reading a fashion item’s fabric label. They provide essential information about a garment’s fabric, care instructions, and more. If you are leaning towards mostly home washing, you should be come well-versed in care labels and symbols. And if it states, “Dry Cleaning Only”, please try to fight the urge to throw in the machine. You’ll thank us later for it.

  • Question about a garment’s blend and its properties? Don’t hesitate to ask your stylist or store representative questions about an item’s performance and care. We always encourage our customers to reach out us with any care questions as well.

  • When possible, invest in higher quality fabrics. In the long run, they will save you money as you won’t be replacing clothing as much. Look for reputable stores and brands known for their environmental impact and quality.

By paying attention to these details, you can build a summer wardrobe that meets your personal preference and looks great!

Summer Fashion Dry Cleaning & Wash-and-Fold

Between our dry cleaning and wash-and-fold services , your entire warm weather wardrobe is in the very best of hands. In the warmer months, perspiration, lotions, and other extra outside factors can wreak havoc on light and airy favorites. Schedule your pick-up in advance so stains don’t stand a chance.

Both Hallak locations are open Monday through Friday 8am – 6pm and Saturdays 8am –4pm.

Complimentary pick-up and delivery available.

Call (212) 832-0750 or email info@hallak.com today.

July 2021 Swimwear Care Check-In

by Leave a Comment

July 2021 Swimwear Care Check-In

Here’s your official July 2021 Swimwear Care Check-In! After a day by the pool or laying on the beach, many people are guilty of not taking the time to properly care for their swimwear. Hallak is your trusted fabric care expert so who better than to share some quick care suggestions.  With these helpful tips, you will be thankful you took those extra few minutes.

  • After each dip in the pool or ocean, you should rinse off as best as possible.  Even if you plan on going again, a cool rinse will help remove some of the chemicals, salt or sand.
  • All done for the day? You should remove and care for your suit as soon as possible.
    • Rinse your suit thoroughly.
    • Then, submerge your suit (inside out) in a sink of cool water with a swimsuit solvent.*  For a few minutes, gently swish around.
    • Follow with a thorough rinsing.
    • Squeeze your suit (do not wring) any remaining water out.
    • Allow your suit to air dry naturally – out of the sun’s rays.

*In a pinch, you may use a gentle laundry detergent or dab of shampoo.  However, you do run the risk of using something that may be a tad too harsh for a suit’s gentle fabric.

For those heavy beach or pool days, you wish to purchase less expensive swimwear. This is also recommended for hot tub nights.  Enjoy more of your day without the worry!

Hallak hopes you enjoyed these helpful tips and video. Questions? You may always call one of our talented team members at (212) 832-0750.