Getting into the latex world is exciting, a bit scary, and very empowering all at once.
Whether you are attracted to the glossy, second-skin aesthetic of latex styling like you have seen in fashion editorials, or the boldness of self-expression that latex brings, you will have everyone looking and turning heads. There are things to think about before you put your latex application in motion and before you purchase your first latex item, to make the experience smooth, stylish, and fun!
So let’s start simple: latex is not like anything else in your closet. It doesn’t act like cotton; it doesn’t feel like spandex; and the stretch is nothing like any natural or synthetic fiber. Latex is a natural rubber fabric that hugs every contour of your body like a glove, and creates a mirror-like reflection with its polished finish. The feel of latex clothing is like no other fabric—you feel tight and smooth and like you are wearing a liquid around your body. This is part of the thrill and part of the challenge.
If you have gotten this far, hopefully, you are feeling slightly more equipped to figure out choosing your first latex outfit, and if you are wondering how to choose your first latex piece, I encourage you to think about and be conscious of what makes you feel the most confident. For most first-timers, simplicity and versatility can be your friends! Think Henry pencil skirt, crop top, sleeveless mini dress. All are easier to put on than a catsuit or full corset, are body-flattering, and can be smartened up or down for different contexts. You do not have to jump straight into a catsuit or corset, go at your speed, or go home if you are not down for the latex commitment. Sometimes, simple is better when you are getting accustomed to the feel and texture of that fabric.
One of the biggest people first experiences with latex is simply putting it on – because you aren’t ‘putting it on’ like a typical couple pair of leggings and sliding in, there is a level of effort and gain, and how you are doing it. You will prep, and you will likely need a dressing aid, which could be the silicone-based dressing aid (my fav) or a talc powder-ridged dressing aid. You will want to use something that resembles a slide for the latex to glide on your body. This will become important for defining a process. Pro tip – get dry, get clean, and make sure you do not put lotion on your skin, because lotion degrades the rubber over time.
Something else to consider – Sizing. Latex is unforgiving. It does not hide bumps, and it does not give. Most latex clothing is meant to be tight, but not stop circulation — nor shame your body. A good fit should feel tight (but comfortable) like a hugging embrace. Don’t go out and purchase latex without properly fitting it! One fully comprehended the sizing chart of the brand/dealer while shopping online. If you are in between sizes on their chart, go bigger! If you’re going to spend the money on something custom-made, I say get it, especially if you are going to be wearing latex more often or want to achieve a proper fit from day one!
Lastly, let’s talk about shine! The high-gloss finish you see in latex pictures is not the finish you get from the bag. New latex is generally matte and/or semi-gloss when you get it, and will take polish to achieve a reflective, stunning look. It’s worth it to get a latex shiner or polish that you apply to the latex piece before you put it on or after you have it on your body. The shine not only increases the visual appearance of the outfit, but it also adds a layer of protection, which helps the latex last longer.
Speaking of lasts longer, latex requires a bit more tender love and care than a normal piece of clothing. Latex is sensitive to heat, oils, and sunlight. Be sure to hand-wash your latex after using it in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap. Please allow it to dry flat in the shade/air (away from direct light), and store it as accordingly as possible (preferably in a garment bag or wrapped in tissue paper). Also, do not use metal hangers or clothing with sharp edges, because they may puncture or stain the rubber! If you care for your latex, it can last for years, looking fantastic.
Finally, many people will have to consider confidence. Latex can be eye-catching (or maybe hard to ignore), and your first time wearing latex out in public- a party, a photoshoot, or just at home experimenting- can be a really important personal moment. It is fine to feel a little nervous during your first outing, just remember to pay attention to how it feels to wear. If the garment fits correctly, shines nicely, and maybe even makes you feel a little taller, you are doing great. Don’t wait for a special occasion. Remember, confidence is the event.
And it is acceptable to be gradual. You can throw on a cotton Top with a vegan latex skirt or pair a latex crop top with a blazer. Mixing textile content is a perfect way to play with latex without going full fetish or costume. More and more edgy stylists are working latex into their everyday streetwear looks; think about latex leggings with oversized knits, or a latex trench coat over a slip dress. The more you wear latex, the more you will learn what styles resonate with you, how to move in it, and how to style your latex looks to be individual.
If you are about to pull the trigger and purchase your very first latex outfit online, do it from a retailer or designer brand that you trust. Look for larger product images, sizing information, and customer reviews. The latex process is really transparent, and as latex is an investment, you want to know what you are actually spending your money on. Naturally, do not hesitate to message the seller with questions about sizing, thickness, care, and washing. It is likewise much better to ask questions beforehand, when it comes to a product that does not work for you.
Pricing is also something to consider. In general, latex clothing is not cheap, especially custom-made. There will be a financial cost to consider, but also the time it takes to produce latex clothing (the material itself is not so inexpensive). Most handmade latex clothing is produced using glue to stick components together, as opposed to stitching. There are many factors to consider to manifest artisanal skill and practice when it comes to producing latex garments. You are paying for the look, the skill to produce the look, durability, and a unique garment that will never get replicated from a cheap fast fashion company.
Aside from price, for the environmentally and sustainability-conscious, latex clothing, as a natural product, comes from the sap of rubber trees. Ideally, latex is also biodegradable! Of course, it is still a specialty item and not for daily wear (like denim or jersey), but it is nice to know you are not getting plastic-based materials when you purchase the real deal latex items. Just be sure to distinguish real latex from cheap PVC, faux latex, etc., as they do not remain the same, do not feel the same, and do not last like real latex sheet goods.
Ultimately, your first latex outfit is not going to be anyone else’s, so go off that premise, whatever you decide to do. Whether you are exploring fashion and latex, performance and latex, photographic experiences, or just feeling excellent in your skin (look at you, childhood phase of feeling like a superhero), there is no wrong way to be playful with latex. You may decide to start with something you are excited about, allow yourself the time to learn the foundations, and most importantly, have fun playing around! Latex is not only suited for models, celebrities, or dominatrixes! It is for everyone who wants to have an experience with bold textiles, dramatic looks, and a little shine.
Lastly, sport the outfit that makes you feel like the main character! Latex seems to do this succinctly and well!
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