Oaklee Solid Wood Hangers, Set of Four

Wire and plastic hangers put a point of pressure exactly where a shoulder seam is most likely to distort. A broad wooden shoulder spreads the weight along the line the garment was cut to, which is why tailors have used them for a century and why a jacket kept on one holds its shape years longer.

These are cut from solid walnut or cedar, sanded to a fine finish and sealed with a light oil rather than varnish. The shoulders are contoured and about 5 cm deep, wide enough for a coat or a structured jacket; a smooth notched bar spans the base for trousers or a skirt, and small notches at each shoulder hold hanging loops on dresses and camisoles. The chrome hook swivels a full turn.

Cedar carries its own advantage: the aromatic oils in the timber are a natural deterrent to clothes moths, and a light sand every year or so refreshes the scent. Sold in fours, so a wardrobe can be converted a shelf at a time. Wipe with a dry cloth; do not use water, polish or solvent on the wood. They are also heavy enough to feel like proper furniture on a rail, which is a small pleasure but a real one every time a wardrobe door is opened.

• Set of four solid wood hangers
• Wood: walnut or cedar
• Contoured 5 cm shoulders
• Notched trouser bar and dress-loop notches
• 360-degree swivel chrome hook
• Cedar is naturally moth-deterrent
• Wipe with a dry cloth only