Katie Perry in latex. Image via Pinterest
Latex clothing might be a staple of dominatrixes and kinksters, but the material is slowly gaining ground in everyday street wear – from cute, simple jackets to red carpet goddess gowns.
That being said, it’s very tricky fabric to wear and care for.
If you curious about integrating this material into your wardrobe, there’s much to learn.
Let’s dive in…
1. WHY TRY LATEX?
There’s a pile of reasons why latex lovers are happy to shell out time and money to get their hands on this material.
- It’s light, slinky, and shiny – a nice step away from normal textiles.
- No matter what size or shape you are, the tight-fitting designs will smooth curves, lift bums, and show off boobs.
- They are statement pieces that draw a lot of attention.
- The thin material is often described as a “second skin” and touching someone over their latex clothing is a mix between intimate contact and separation – you’re touching someone but not really touching them.
2. USEFUL FACTS ABOUT LATEX
There are two kinds of latex clothing…
MOLDED – A manufacture dips a mold into liquid latex rubber. It’s the preferred method for complex designs with heavy contours, like masks, hoods, or gloves.
SHEET – A pattern and body measurements are used, and separate pieces cut from a larger sheet. The pieces are then glued together to form the final garment.
There is no “one is better than the other” because…
Although poorly made molded clothing can have an uneven thickness and weak spots that are prone to faster tearing, well-made designs can be just as viable sheet garments. Also, poorly constructed sheet clothing can fall apart or tear easily if they’re not glued properly.
The same goes for the fit.
Both can have wonderful or terrible results – depending on the accuracy of the measurements and the construction.
FACT: Rubber and latex clothing is NOT the same thing.
3. GETTING THE RIGHT FIT
If you’re looking for your first latex item, and aren’t sure what to buy, I would recommend something simple, like a skirt, stocking, or a pair of shorts. They’re fairly easy to fit and won’t cost as much as a full catsuit or dress.
It’s also important to get the correct measurements. This means using a soft measuring tape and following either the store’s guide (which is preferable) or a generic body measurement chart.
IMPORTANT: Check, double check, and triple check your numbers before you click on the “buy” button.
Also, read the store guide carefully for other tips and tricks they recommend. You want things to fit snug. If it’s too tight, it will tear. If it’s too loose, you lose the clingy effect that will flatter your body.
The general rule is “get something a couple centimeters smaller than your measurements”. But, when in doubt, email the store!
4. GETTING INTO YOUR LATEX DREAM
Putting on latex is no easy feat.
Many of the rips and holes you’ll end up with is because you were too rough. Even long nails or rings can easily destroy the fabric. Then there’s the natural friction from your skin. So, when you’re getting ready, follow these steps…
1. GET CLEAN – Have a shower, wash well, dry well, and do NOT put on any moisturizer.
2. FORGET UNDERWEAR – No need for panties or bras etc. The fit should be snug enough that you don’t need it, AND it will be so tight that EVERYTHING will show through. Wearing latex means going 100% commando.
3. CHOOSE A PRODUCT – Unscented talc powder, silicone lubricant, water-based lubricant, or a dressing aid (liquid specifically made for getting into latex clothing).
Pjur, Gloss, and Eros are some make this. Put a light dusting of powder or a thin layer of lubricant/dressing aid on your body and on the INSIDE of the garment before you get in.
4. TAKE OFF ALL JEWELRY – No rings, bracelets etc. If you have really long fingernails, wear soft gloves, or, at minimum, be REALLY careful.
5. NO FINGERS – Grabbing the material by your fingers will guarantee ripping or permanent marks. Instead, slid your hand in between you and the material and (with an open palm) slowly wriggle, push, and slide your way in.
6. TAKE YOUR TIME – Seriously, never rush your dressing. Make the act of getting into your latex a sexy event, not a chore. Because, whether new or a veteran, if you rush things, you’ll tear things. It’s also a good idea to have someone there to help you.
7. SHINEY GOOD – Dull latex looks sad. When you’re ready to go out, dust off excess powder (if you used it) and gently wipe on a coating of latex shine (Pujr makes some) or silicone lubricant.
TIP: Latex is a magnet for pet hair.
5. HOW TO WEAR IT
First, latex isn’t breathable, at all. So, you’re going to sweat A LOT. There’s no getting around it. Also, it will be warm to wear.
However, this doesn’t mean it will keep you warm if you change to cooler temperatures – you’ll just get a chill and then be very aware of the sweat that has accumulated.
Dress in reasonable layers so you can add or remove as necessary – this means a jacket, shawl, etc.
Also, it’s worth pointing out that people always want to touch it. Even if they don’t want to wear it, they want to touch it. Be aware of your comfort zone and make sure others respect your personal boundaries (and ask permission before touching).
6. ALLERGIC REACTIONS
Another reason to start small is to find out if you have a latex allergy. And, just because you use latex condoms with no issue, doesn’t mean you can rock the clothing version.
Ask for a small square of the maker’s material or get something cheap online and do a spot test against your skin (keep it there for at least a few hours).
Also, there are different kinds of latex, including some VEGAN SAFE stuff, and there might be something out there for those that have a sensitivity.
7. HOW TO GET OUT OF IT
This step is A LOT easier.
Just peel things off. Don’t pull or tear at them. And, if it gets difficult, hop in the shower and let some water run inside.
8. HOW TO WASH IT
If you haven’t figured it out yet, latex is a DELICATE material. Like an orchid, it’s stunning, but if you aren’t careful with it, it wont’ last long.
- Washing should be done as soon as possible after you’ve worn it. Don’t leave it sitting for a couple of days. This can be a light rinse after light wear or a thorough cleaning after many uses or heavy wear.
- Wash by hand and/or with a soft sponge in lukewarm water and gentle dish shop or baby shampoo – in a plastic bucket, bathtub, or ceramic sink (no metal containers).
- Gently wipe the inside and outside – don’t scrub.
- Rinse well and make sure there is no soap residue left.
- Gently shake off excess water (never ring it out), pat the rest off with a soft towel, and hang on a PLASTIC hanger to finish drying.
- Do NOT dry in sunlight.
9. PROPER STORAGE
- Dust with a light coating of talc powder and hang on a soft hanger in a garment bag (preferably black) OR wrap it in acid-free tissue paper and put in a black plastic bag.
- Store it somewhere DARK and DRY.
- Do not store light colored latex with dark or strong colors – it will stain.
10. CAREFUL WITH PRINTED LATEX
Printed latex is even more delicate than the regular stuff. Do your best to keep friction to a minimum.
For example, when you’re applying a shine coat, use gentle dabble or light strokes. The same goes for washing.
There will be natural “wear away” of the print on places like armpits, other garments, handbags etc. It’s inevitable, but you can try to slow down the process.
11. REPAIRING
Small tears and pin holes should be dealt with ASAP, before they turn into bigger (and unsightly) tears and holes. You can find latex clothing repair kits online (and follow the instructions) OR send it into the maker for repairs (if they offer this service).
The basic materials needed are solvent, acid-free rubber cement, a latex patch, and paintbrush or credit card/plastic card.
To give you an idea of what repairing involves, here is a video of a manufacturer fixing something for a customer…
12. MORE WAYS TO NOT KILL YOUR LATEX
- Never put latex in the washing machine, use powder soap, or dry clean it.
- Never put latex near heat sources like candles or radiators – it’s FLAMMABLE.
- Always keep it away from sunlight (as much as possible). Long-term exposure to UV rays will cause a chemical breakdown and the material will be even more fragile – not to mention less shiny.
- Never bring latex in contact with copper or nickel-based metals (hangers, coins, bronzing makeup, jewelry etc.) It will leave brown stains on lighter colored latex and cause loss of shine as well as material breakdown.
- Never bring latex in contact with oils – no oil lubricant, body oils, moisturizers etc. It will degrade the material.
- Always keep it dry. Constant humidity or exposure to water will make it rot. Yes, it will be in contact with your sweat (it’s unavoidable) but keep moisture to as much of a minimum as possible.
- Never store it with leather. Oil keeps leather healthy, but it will kill your latex.
CLOSING
Latex is a fun, freaky, and sexy addition to your functional or kinky closet. But remember … you get what you pay for. And, if it’s your first time, a less pricey option might be better. But, after you’ve decided you love it, make sure you buy from people who know what they’re doing.
After that, it’s just about taking care of it so you can extend its lifespan as much as possible.
But, above all, ENJOY!
Also, if you liked this article, you might enjoy these…
- 20+ Tips on How to Clean Leather – Keep Your BDSM Gear Shinning
- 8 Tips for Men’s Sexy Underwear – Step Into a World of Choices
- How To Buy a Sexy Corset – Get the Sultry Shape You Crave
Where are my latex lovers? Give a shout out in the comments!
