How to Care for a Mohair Sharkskin Suit

Sharkskin suits actually do not come from this predatory fish.

Sharkskin fabric is a type of material that definitely has a deceptive name. Evocative of a killer fish, sharkskin actually refers to woven blend of flat, soft wool. This was a suit more commonly worn in the flashier decade of the 1960s, as this type of suit has a slight shine to it. A sharkskin suit with a blend of mohair indicates a suit that also contains the silky hairs from the angora goat, making for a suit with a softer touch. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Wood hanger, 1/2 in. thick
• Garment brush
• Wash cloth
• Mild detergent

Instructions

1. Hang the suit after wearing it on a wooden hanger that is at least 1/2 i. thick. This will give it the minimum amount of support that it requires.

2. Brush the suit after every time you wear it with a garment brush. This will loosen trapped dust and dirt from between the fibers. Give the suit a good shake after brushing it.

3. Hang the suit in an area where the air is fresh and circulating and away from direct sunlight. Don't wear it for at least three days. This will give the suit a rest and allow the mohair fibers to regain their shape.

4. Check the suit for spots and spot clean regularly with a wet, warm washcloth that you have dabbed very lightly with a tiny amount of mild detergent. Rub the washcloth lightly against the stains until you remove them.

Tips & Warnings

• While most regular sharkskin suits allow you to just toss them in the washing machine, because the suit in question contains mohair, you really should get it professionally dry-cleaned just a few times a year when the suit absolutely needs it. Too much dry-cleaning can wear the suit out over time.

References

• Suit Yourself: Suit Care Tips
• Exec Style: Men's Garment Care Guide
• "Texas Monthly"; Suit Yourself; Gregory Curtis; October 1973