Griot’s Garage Trim Restorer vs All Dressed Up

Which trim product gives the best OEM look—Griot’s Trim Restorer or All Dressed Up? Let’s compare UV protection, finish, and longevity.

Introduction

Faded trim is one of the most common complaints for car owners. UV rays, weather, and neglect cause plastics and rubber to turn gray or chalky. Griot’s Trim Restorer and All Dressed Up are two products designed to bring life back to trim. While Griot’s focuses on restoration, All Dressed Up balances cleaning, restoring, and protecting with an OEM-style finish. Let’s break down the differences.

Product Overviews

Griot’s Garage Trim Restorer

This product is marketed as a restorer for faded trim. It darkens plastics and adds some hydrophobic protection. The downside is that many trim restorers rely on heavy oils or silicones, which look shiny at first but fade quickly and attract dust.

All Dressed Up

All Dressed Up is a water-based dressing safe for both interiors and exteriors. It restores depth to plastics, rubber, and vinyl without greasy shine. It also offers UV protection and can be diluted for different finishes. Unlike restorers that only mask fading, it leaves trim with a clean, factory look.

Comparison Table

Finish & Appearance

One of the biggest differences between the two is the finish. Griot’s Trim Restorer leaves a glossy, sometimes greasy appearance that can look artificial. All Dressed Up is formulated for an OEM-style matte finish, giving trim a natural, fresh-from-factory look. It also doesn’t attract dust or streak when wet.

Durability

Restorers tend to fade after a few washes or weeks in the sun. Griot’s Trim Restorer is no exception, often requiring frequent reapplication. All Dressed Up, thanks to its water-based formula and UV blockers, lasts much longer, protecting trim for months rather than weeks.

Application Process

• Griot’s Trim Restorer: Apply with an applicator pad, spread evenly, and allow to cure. Reapply as needed when fading returns.
• All Dressed Up: Apply with a foam or microfiber applicator. For high-gloss, use full strength. For matte, OEM-style finish, dilute 4:1. Safe for interiors, exteriors, and tires.

Real-World Scenarios

Daily Drivers

Owners of daily-driven cars want lasting protection. All Dressed Up not only restores trim but also prevents future fading, making it a smarter choice than short-lived restorers.

Show Cars

For a car that only sees occasional use, Griot’s Restorer can give a quick, shiny look. But for enthusiasts who prefer a natural finish, All Dressed Up is the better fit.

Professional Detailers

Pros need versatility. All Dressed Up works on interiors, exteriors, engine bays, and tires, making it a shop staple. Griot’s Restorer is limited to exterior plastics, reducing its value for professionals.

Customer Feedback

“I used Griot’s Trim Restorer for years, but it was always too shiny. All Dressed Up gives me the factory look I want.” — Carlos, TX

“I love that I can use All Dressed Up on both my trim and interior. Super versatile and easy to apply.” — Megan, CA

Final Verdict

Griot’s Trim Restorer can bring faded plastics back to life temporarily, but it lacks durability and tends to leave an unnatural shine. All Dressed Up is the smarter choice, offering a matte, OEM finish with strong UV protection that lasts. It’s also more versatile, making it a better value for detailers and enthusiasts alike.

FAQ

Does Griot’s Trim Restorer provide UV protection?

Limited UV protection is included, but durability is short compared to modern dressings.

Is All Dressed Up greasy?

No. It’s a water-based formula that dries to a matte, OEM-style finish without attracting dust.

Can All Dressed Up be used on interiors?

Yes. It’s safe for dashboards, door panels, vinyl, and plastic, in addition to exterior trim and tires.