Garment Care & Textile Labeling
THE CHRISTOPHER CARE STANDARD
Built with purpose.
Kept with care.
Understand what your garment label means—and use a considered care routine to protect the fit, color, finish, and character of every Christopher piece.
WHAT THE LABEL TELLS YOU
U.S. textile labeling, in plain language
For most textile apparel sold in the United States, federal rules administered by the Federal Trade Commission require key facts to be disclosed on the product label. Product categories and circumstances can carry exceptions, so the points below are a customer-friendly overview—not a substitute for the applicable rules.
01 / Fiber content
The generic fiber names and their percentages by weight. Fibers at 5% or more are generally listed separately; smaller amounts may usually be grouped as “other fiber” unless they have functional significance.
02 / Country of origin
The country where the product was manufactured or processed, stated clearly so you can understand where the garment was made.
03 / Responsible business
The manufacturer, importer, or other responsible business is identified by its full business name or an FTC Registered Identification Number (RN). An RN is optional and is not the same as an EIN.
04 / Care instructions
A permanent care label provides at least one safe method for regular care and warns against a method that consumers might reasonably use if it could harm the garment.
QUALITY-KEEPING GUIDE
Care that respects the garment
Follow the sewn-in label before using any general advice. Different fabrics, linings, dyes, trims, and finishes require different care.
Wash only when needed. Air out or spot-clean when appropriate and permitted by the label; always test an inconspicuous area first.
Empty pockets, close zippers and fasteners, and turn printed or embroidered garments inside out to reduce surface abrasion.
Separate lights, darks, and color-rich garments. Wash with similar fabrics and avoid overloading the machine.
If the label permits machine washing, use cool or cold water, a gentle cycle, and mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softener unless specifically allowed.
If permitted, air-dry or use low heat. High heat can shrink fibers, weaken stretch, fade color, and damage prints, coatings, or bonded details.
Never place an iron directly on a print, embroidery, signature, or key treatment. If the label permits pressing, work from the reverse side with low heat and a pressing cloth.
Store pieces clean and fully dry, away from damp and direct sunlight. Fold heavy knits; use broad hangers for structured outerwear.
Address loose threads, small tears, and weakened seams before they grow. Do not pull loose threads—trim or repair them properly.
DETAILS MATTER
Protect the material and the finish
Print + heat-applied art
Turn inside out. Minimize friction. Avoid direct heat, bleach, and aggressive stain treatment on the artwork.
Embroidery
Protect against snags and rough surfaces. Do not pull raised threads. Press only from the reverse if the care label permits.
Outerwear + mixed materials
Follow the label for the complete garment, including shell, lining, fill, rib, and trim. Use a professional cleaner when instructed.
THE CARE HIERARCHY
When in doubt, protect the piece.
- First: follow the permanent care label.
- Second: respect the most delicate material, trim, or decoration.
- Third: pause and seek professional care before trying an uncertain treatment.
Official U.S. references: FTC textile and wool labeling guidance and FTC Care Labeling Rule guidance.
This page provides general educational information for customers in the United States. It does not replace the permanent label on a specific product and is not legal advice. Requirements can vary by product and market.
Last reviewed: August 2026.