Hallak Cleaners

The Couture Cleaner

Donna Serino

In Memory of George Hallak….

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In Loving Memory of George Hanna Hallak….

George Hallak
In loving memory of George Hallak – John Claude and Joe’s beloved uncle.

 

At this time of year, we remember the passing of George Hallak in 1996.  George was our uncle and the younger brother of our father, Joseph Hallak Sr.

 After successfully running two of his own dry cleaning businesses in the Bronx – and then Teaneck, New Jersey, George came on as a beloved member of the Hallak Cleaners’ team.

His ever joyful personality was a presence that was felt by everyone in our company, and he is sorely missed by all.

 Forever in our hearts.

John-Claude and Joe Hallak and the Hallak Family.

Historic Royal Fashion at The Coronation

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Earlier today, many tuned into the Coronation of King Charles III. Even if you have no ties to the royal family, it was a part of history that we simply didn’t want to miss.

What is the Coronation

Today’s Coronation was only the third one televised so many felt fortunate enough to be able to tune in. This highly ceremonial and symbolic event follows a very specific set of steps and traditions. While some details may vary depending on the monarch and time period, there are a few general steps.

First, there is the grand arrival of the monarch at Westminster Abbey (for this specific ceremony); they are accompanied by various officials and dignitaries. With around 2,000 guests inside, the event begins.

As there are many songs sung and words exchanged, we will skip to the main parts such as the anointing. Shielded by screens, the monarch is anointed with holy oil; it is placed on the monarch’s head, hands, and chest.

Then, they move on to the crowning. The Crown Jewels is then placed on the monarch’s head. Peers fo the realm pledge their loyalty. Then, others in the realm begin to present various items including spurs, a scepter, ring, and other ancient items.

Presentation: The monarch is presented to the people of the realm, who cheer and celebrate the coronation. Followed by these steps are the communion and benediction.

Historic Royal Fashion at the Coronation

Steeped in tradition and symbolism, each step is significant. This is not only a celebration, but also an affirmation of the monarch’s authority.

From a dry cleaner’s perspective, we were blown away by the treasured fashion worn during the Coronation. The pageantry and tradition have been woven into the fabric that is displayed for such a momentous occasion.

Symbolic clothing such as the Coronation robes are made of the finest silk and features  jewels and embroidery.  So of course, our thoughts went to the preservation of such historic clothing. Made of delicate fabrics and adorned with these intricate details, the garments require special care and attention. Specialized cleaning techniques and solvents ensure that these types of items are preserved for future generations.

Where Do They Store Historic Royal Fashion

Some of the garments worn on this special day are stored in the Royal Collection; this is managed by the Royal Collection Trust. The collection also includes various objects and artifacts that the British Royal Family has accumulated.

Centuries of treasures are housed in various locations across the UK; they include Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. All the buildings were designed to offer a secure place for such a collection. After all, many of these items are considered priceless.

Careful storage ensures that these Coronation garments are protected from damage and deterioration. Much like Hallak’s wedding gown preservations, some iconic clothing are placed in acid-free containers and kept in a temperature-controlled space. Direct heat, sunlight, moisture, and other environmental factors can accelerate deterioration so it’s important to always take necessary precautions. When it comes to these historic pieces, access is restricted to a few select individuals. And you may only expect to see these royal fashion garments for special occasions or exhibitions.

 

Happy Earth Day

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Updated 4/22/2024

Happy Earth Day

Happy Earth Day 2024 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.

At our dry cleaning facility, we utilize environmentally friendly solvents and cleaning agents that are safe for both the environment and our clients. We also understand the importance of protecting our natural resources and reducing our waste output. That is why we have invested in high-efficiency equipment that minimizes our water and energy consumption. In addition, our plant has also been awarded an environmental award for our efforts.

Both stores and plant have also implemented sustainable business practices that reduce our environmental impact. We collect hangers so they can be re-used, lean towards online communication, ongoing recycle efforts, energy-efficient lighting, and more.

We believe that every business has a responsibility to contribute to a sustainable future. That is why we continuously seek new ways to minimize our impact on the environment. We are proud to offer eco-friendly dry cleaning services that not only meet the needs of our clients but also protect our planet for generations to come.

This Earth Day, let us all do our part in protecting our planet. By choosing eco-friendly services, we can reduce our environmental impact and create a better world for all.

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.

 

Spring Clothing Donation Pick Up: Out with the Old, In with the New

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Looking for a clothing donation pick up or drop off location near you? Both Hallak Cleaners’ stores are collecting clothing throughout the month and into May. 

When seasons switch, we always encourage our clients to take an hour or two to give your wardrobe a glance over. You’ll most likely be storing some garments to make room so why not get ride of some items that no longer serve any purpose.

What Clothing Should You Donate

Going through your wardrobe sounds like an exhausting, time-consuming idea. However, we guarantee that you can look into your closet right now and pull 20 items you haven’t worn all season. And from those 20, you can easily decide that 5 of those are probably never going to have a night out again.

If pressed for time and you don’t need to make a lot of space, then keep it simple. Ask yourself a few simple questions:

  • Have I worn this in the past season?
  • Why haven’t I worn this?
  • Does this item still fit?
  • Do I need to have this altered or repaired?
  • Would I be okay never wearing this again?

For some items, you may only need to ask yourself one  questions and know. Yes, this is a keeper. Or no, I’m never going to wear this again. 

If you come across items in need of assistance, take them out of your closet and put in a pile for your dry cleaners and/or tailor. By leaving them in your closet, it only further delays the possibility of you ever wearing them.

Pro tip: Some people leave the alterations/repair pile. If they don’t it to the cleaners or tailor in 2 weeks, then perhaps it’s time to donate. 

Clothing Donation Pick Up and Drop Off

Everyone wants to do their part. However, we all have very busy lives that can delay these little ways in which we can help our community. By hosting another donation drive in-house, we hope that this will help make the task simple and stress-free.

Both the New York and New Jersey Hallak stores have donation bins. In addition, you may also include your clothing donation with your dry cleaning pick-up. However, we do kindly ask that you keep donation items in a separate bag AND note that they are for donations. A team member would be happy to call you to review all garments to confirm. This year, we are donating all collected items to Goodwill.  Feel free to email info@hallak.com for a tax-deductible receipt.

Spring Pickup Services

At Hallak, spring is a busy time. We are hosting our household sale, winter clothing storage season starts, and this donation drive. 

Hosting a clothing donation drive at the same time of a seasonal wardrobe switch simply makes sense. As you are taking control of your closet, make a donation pile for unwanted clothing. Visit either store and leave your charitable clothing donations in our drop boxes. Or schedule your free pick-up today.

Fall Winter New York Fashion Week

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This fall winter New York Fashion Week made all the headlines  and as it should.

Starting last Friday to this week, your favorite designers had their fall winter designs hit the runway. And if you’re lucky and/or a who’s who in the fashion world, you had seats.

For the rest, there is plenty of coverage. From streetwear to couture pieces, there was something for everyone. And if you like the 90s, you’ll find some pieces you really are going to love.

New York Fashion History

New York has had a long history of being a center for  fashion, dating back to the early 20th century.  At that time, it was the largest garment manufacturing center in the United States.

Over the years, NYC has continued to grow as a fashion capital with many of the world’s top designers headquartered – and luxury boutiques lining the streets.

Fortunately, New York City has the infrastructure to support the demands of the fashion industry. With many number of fashion schools and plenty of showroom space, it’s no wonder so many designer fashion groups calls it home.

Streetwear Fashion

This year, Heron Preston made their New York Fashion Week debut. The runway gave cyber punk street wear vibes. If you are unfamiliar with the name Heron Preston, you’ll be impressed after a quick search. A true creative, Heron Preston’s pieces speak for themselves.

The collection included the right amount of layering, fray-kissed clothing, and eye-catching accessories.

New York Fashion Brands

Based out of New York, Collina Strada showcased her looks – and also gave a true show. The models donned masks transforming them into animals such as pigs, lizards, and horses. In addition the wildlife, the layering situation was real – skirts over pants, corsets over tops, and more.

Fashion with a Message

Besides the actual fashion, we love when fashion brands use the opportunity to drive a message. 

This fashion week, PH5 leaned into the issues plaguing our oceans. Merging fashion with examples of bad human habits, the result was underwater fashion looks with a twist – plastic! The beautifully constructed garments made you look and think about our ecosystem.

Bonus – The brand plants five trees for every single garment sold. We love that!

Romantic Rodarte 

Last week, Rodarte kicked off the beginning of Fall Winter New York Fashion Week 2023. 

While dark and goth, the collection was full-on romantic. The scene was set with large silver candelabras and silver encrusted fruits. Magic was in the air. Models with heavy eyeliner and dark lipstick dressed in black further created this goth fairytale.

The End of Fall Winter NYFW

Although the shows have ended, the excitement has not. That’s one of the reasons New York Fashion Week is so special. 

Whether you are dressing in today’s latest trends or your favorite 5-year old sweater, Hallak is here for all your garment care. 

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South for the Winter?

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South for the Winter?

Out-of-state friends love our shipping services. Learn more today.

Still down South for the winter?

While you may be missing out on some of what the city has to offer, you don’t have to miss couture garment care.

For a few decades, Hallak has offered courier couture dry cleaning.  While many of our clients live in the delivery area, there are some loyal out-of-state clients that use our shipping services.

When shipping items, we ask that you include a note inside the box.  Please include following information:

  • Name
  • Shipping Address
  • Best Phone Number
  • Best Email

If you already have an account for local delivery, please include that address. This way, we can itemized garments under that account.  Please note that all invoices are charged prior to shipping so we do require a credit card on file.

For your luxury items, you can certainly request additional insurance and other extras (e.g. signature required).   Questions? Email info@hallak.com or call (212) 832-0750.

And by the way, you can follow us on Instagram and Facebook so you don’t miss a think!  We are always sharing tips, fashion trends, home care and more.