Those little tags sewn into every one of your clothing garments may be scratchy or downright annoying. But before you yank it off or cut it out and throw it away forever, it's important to realize ...

Certain materials like spandex, wool, silk, mohair or leather will be ruined by bleach no matter the color of the item. However, most white linens and cotton garments are bleach-friendly.

She does a lot of restyling of outdated garments — i.e., reducing shoulder pads. A leather garment that is well-cared for can last decades, she says, but the key is in the care and the quality.