It’s more than annoying; at the end of the day, there’s a red welt, and your shoulders and neck are killing you. A tension headache is on the horizon, all from your shoulder strap.

But it doesn’t have to be like that: there are a few reasons your bra may be digging, like narrow straps, an ill-fitting bra, or even that you’re wearing the wrong bra style for your unique shape.

Some simple solutions for alleviating the ache include choosing bras with wide straps, purchasing bras with different strap designs, and getting re-fitted. Let’s dive into it!

Why Your Shoulder Straps Dig in 

The short answer is it really depends! You may be wearing the wrong size bra, which can contribute to more weight and pressure on your straps. Or you might be wearing the wrong bra style for your unique body! If you’re feeling the dig, check out which of the following reasons could be causing your shoulder pain.

You’re Wearing the Wrong Size

Here’s the thing: when you’re wearing the wrong size bra, you’re going to feel uncomfortable, your shoulders and neck included. 

Your bra band is meant to provide the majority of support for your breasts, but when it’s too tight or too loose, it can’t do its job properly. This causes your shoulder straps to overcompensate, causing digging and extra pressure. Not only do your shoulders feel the impact, but you lack the lift and support your bra should be giving you. 

If your cup size is too small, breasts may spill over, causing increased tension on the shoulder straps as they struggle to bear the excess weight. If your cup is too large, you may want to over tighten the straps to help the breasts fill the cup better.

This can add pressure to the soft tissues and muscles, restrict blood flow, and impede circulation in the shoulders and upper arms. Some folks have even experienced tingling and numbness from wearing straps that are too tight. 

Shoulder Strap Woes

Sometimes, it’s simply the shoulder straps that are the problem! Narrow shoulder straps, while often chosen for their delicate and feminine appearance, can sometimes contribute to the notorious issue of straps digging into the shoulders.

The narrower the straps, the more concentrated the pressure points, leading to discomfort and, over time, potential pain. It's a delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality. You may want to consider a range of bras (some with slender straps, others with wider ones) that can be worn for different occasions and styles. 

Adjustable straps are a practical solution for achieving a comfortable fit, but occasionally, missteps in their usage or fit can lead to discomfort. There are a few reasons why they may cause digging. 

• Uneven adjustment: If one shoulder strap is tighter than the other, it can create an imbalance, potentially causing one side to dig into the shoulder.
• Incorrect length: Straps that are too short or too long may not sit comfortably on the shoulders, leading to potential digging or discomfort.
• Elasticity wear: Over time, the elasticity of adjustable straps may diminish, impacting their ability to maintain the desired length. This can lead to gradual tightening and discomfort.

Bra Style

While the right bra offers unparalleled support and comfort, the wrong style might leave you with the unwelcome sensation of shoulder strap digging. Understanding which bra styles may be more prone to this discomfort is valuable in finding the perfect fit for your body.

Here's a breakdown of bra styles that, if not tailored to your individual needs, could potentially lead to shoulder strap digging:

1. Racerback bra: While racerback bras can provide excellent support and a unique look, the design of the straps converging at the back can sometimes increase pressure on the shoulders, leading to potential digging. This is especially true if the straps are thin rather than thick and joined. 
2. Balconette or demi bra: These styles often have shorter and more widely set shoulder straps. If you have narrow or sloping shoulders, this bra style may easily slip off and cause discomfort. 
3. Sports Bra with tension straps: Some high-impact sports bras may have tension-inducing straps that, if not adjusted correctly, can contribute to discomfort and digging.
4. Bralette: While bralettes are known for their comfort, some styles may lack the structured support needed to distribute the weight evenly. This can lead to increased pressure on the straps and potential digging.
5. Underwire Bra: While an underwired bra often provides great support and lift, it can dig into the shoulders if the band isn't sitting snugly against the ribcage.
6. Strapless Bra: A strapless bra relies primarily on the band to provide support since there aren't any straps. You may find yourself constantly adjusting a strapless bra to prevent it from slipping, which causes strain or lacks support.

Sloping Shoulders

Sloping shoulders refers to shoulders that angle downwards from the neck to the outside of the arms. Bra straps slide down your shoulder more easily. This can be particularly problematic if the straps are not adjusted properly or the bra design doesn't accommodate you.

Bras like racerback bras or wide-set strapped balconette bras may not be super accommodating to sloping shoulders. If the straps are set too wide or at an angle that doesn't align with the natural slope of the shoulders, they may dig into the skin rather than resting comfortably on the shoulders.

Narrow Shoulders

Narrow shoulders often mean a shorter distance between them. This can lead to straps slipping off more frequently, disrupting the proper alignment of the bra. Straps that continuously slip can result in the need for constant readjustment, impacting overall comfort.

With a shorter distance to cover, bra straps designed for a broader shoulder span may be too long for those with narrow shoulders. As a result, the excess length can lead to digging into the skin, causing discomfort and irritation. This issue is particularly common if the bra's design doesn't account for variations in shoulder width.

Larger Bust

It’s basic (girl) math: If you have larger breasts, your straps have more to support. While your bra band should provide the most support, the straps play an important role too! Thin straps can mean more pressure points and less evenly distributed weight.

You may even experience bra strap syndrome. According to research, this is when tight, narrow straps dig into the shoulders leading to shoulder stiffness, tenderness, and even tingling hands. Folks with larger bodies or larger breasts may be at a greater risk. 

One of the easiest ways to reduce your risk is to wear bras with wide straps! 

Best Ways to Get Rid of Digging Shoulder Straps

Now that you understand why your straps are digging, here are some simple solutions. 

Get Resized 

The often-overlooked solution to alleviating the nagging issue of digging bra straps lies in a seemingly simple yet transformative step: getting resized. While it may seem counterintuitive, the wrong cup or band size means more strain on the straps.

Ultimately, you'll feel more comfortable and confident wearing the right size. That’s why it’s important to retake your measurements or, better still, get professionally fitted by bra specialists to ensure you’re in the right bra size! 

Choose Wider Straps

It may be as simple as choosing bras with wider straps to help reduce shoulder digging and discomfort. Why? Wider straps mean a more even weight distribution across the shoulders and fewer pressure points they can dig into.

Plus, there’s lots to love about a wide strap; for example, they provide more support for larger chests, stability, and reduce the risk of slipping. If you have narrow or sloping shoulders, wide straps may be a better fit for you since their width provides a more secure anchor, making them less likely to slide. 

Choose a Different Bra Style

While the type of bra that suits you best will depend on your personal preference and your unique body, some bra styles are designed to minimize digging. Consider the following:

• T-Shirt Bra: Many t-shirt bras feature wider straps than other bra styles. The broader straps help distribute the weight of the breasts more evenly across the shoulders, reducing the pressure on a specific area and minimizing the risk of digging.
• Sports Bra: Often designed with wide straps to support movement, sports bras are a great choice for minimizing shoulder strain. 
• Wire-Free Bra: Without the constraints of underwire, a wireless bra relies on a combination of fabric and strategic construction for support. This design helps distribute the weight of the breasts more evenly across the entire cup, minimizing concentrated pressure points on the shoulders and reducing the likelihood of digging.

Three Best Shoulder-Friendly Bras for Pain-Free Support

Painful shoulders? Here are some of the best bras that will support and lift without adding any extra aches.

Best Wide Strapped Bra: Padded V-Neck Bra

The Padded V-neck Bra is the obvious choice for folks battling shoulder pain from their straps. The wide straps provide extra support, while a plunge neckline makes this perfect for everyday wear. Available in cup sizes A through F. 

What reviewers say:

"I like the wide straps & feel like it can look like tank top straps for a layered look for summer."

"I love the comfort of the wide strap, even though I wear a relatively small size."

Super Supportive Bra for Getting a Sweat On: Momenta Racerback Sports Bra

So you want to look cute and comfortable at the gym? Designed with a racerback cut without the digging of convertible straps, the Momenta Racerback Sports Bra has ample support without the digging. This full-coverage bra has built-in padded cups for extra cushioning and no clasps or fastening hooks for a smooth feel.

What reviewers say:

"Holy smokes, I love this bra! It’s been great for running and weight training. I bought it slightly smaller to keep the girls in place, but I love it. Will probably buy another!"

"I'm a size 38G, and I have difficulty finding bras that fit correctly and provide support, so I am very impressed with this product. Most supportive and comfortable bra I have ever worn."

Most Comfortable Bra for Everyday Wear: Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra

Made with soft, buttery fabric, you won't want to take off the Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra. This wireless bra has adjustable straps for a customizable fit and will give you a lovely natural shape to your bust. Easy to wear with no back closures, making you feel like you're not wearing anything. Basically, it's the perfect bra! 

What reviewers say:

"Beautifully made and so comfortable! I am incredibly impressed with the attention to detail...it feels custom-made for me." 

Ditch Discomfort, Time for Something New

Imagine this: Your bra isn’t a nagging distraction. Your shoulder straps don’t leave welts and make your body ache. Wearing a well-fitting bra makes you feel more confident and comfortable in your clothes. And remember, just because you're more supported doesn't mean you have to shy away from stylish bras!

Simple changes like wearing the right bra size or choosing a wider strap can make a difference. Embracing a different style, like a t-shirt bra or sports bra, can mean you don’t end your day racing to rip off your bra. Choose the best bra for you based on our suggestions below.

Wireless bras have come a long way; they are supportive, comfortable, and come in cute designs. It's basically the perfect everyday bra. They are designed with thick, elastic fabric, adjustable straps, soft, flexible cups, and thick chest bands to provide support. Some wireless bras feature an inner sling, power mesh lining, and extra fabric on the band to limit bounce. 

What Are Wireless Bras?

Wireless bras (soft cup bras or wire-free bras) feature no metal underwire but instead rely on design, fabric, and strategic construction to provide support. This bra style is an excellent choice for folks who want a more natural look and feel; it provides more flexibility to movement during the day. 

Wireless bras come in various styles, from the practical to the pretty, padded and without pads, seamless, strapless bra, and sports bras. 

Wire-free bras are made from soft, stretchy fabric and are comfortable and supportive, the best of all worlds. 

Wireless Bras vs. Underwire Bras

Are you team wireless or underwired? One main difference is in the structure of the bras. An underwire bra incorporates thin, semi-circular wires beneath each cup, providing additional support and shaping to the bust. 

These wires are typically made of metal or plastic and are strategically placed to contour the underside of the breasts. While wired bras are preferred for their ability to lift and define, some individuals find them uncomfortable or restrictive, leading to the rising popularity of wireless options.

On the other hand, wireless bras are designed to support without a metal wire and are immensely more comfortable. The absence of an underwire reduces the risk of discomfort or poking, making so many more people team wireless. 

Even with underwire bras, only some support comes from the wire. The shoulder straps, bands, and the hook and eye closure also lift and hold the chest in underwired bras. 

Ultimately, the choice between a wireless and a wired bra comes down to individual preference, with each style offering unique advantages that cater to different needs and comfort levels.

How Do Wireless Bras Support Your Breasts?

Wireless bras often have wide, elastic bands, which secure the bra snugly around the ribs and help distribute the weight of the breasts evenly, ensuring stability and comfort. The band may also extend further down the torso, which can provide more support, especially for larger busts. 

Some bras may have molded cups to lift and separate the breasts, while others may have soft, flexible cups that allow a more natural silhouette. A bra sling may provide additional support for larger cup sizes or in a sports bra. This additional bit of stiff fabric shapes and lifts the bust without a wire. 

The straps of wireless bras play a crucial role in overall support. Wider and adjustable straps are designed to distribute the weight of the breasts evenly across the shoulders, minimizing strain and enhancing comfort. 

The type of fabric can also impact how the bra fits and moves. Some common fabrics include:

• Nylon: Known for its strength, durability, and smooth texture, nylon bras offer a sleek appearance and can withstand regular wear and washing without losing shape. Nylon's lightweight nature contributes to the overall comfort of wireless bras.
• Lace: Lace adds a touch of elegance to wireless bras. When strategically incorporated, lace panels enhance the aesthetic appeal and offer a breathable and lightweight option for those who prioritize a feminine touch.
• Cotton: Cotton is a classic choice for wireless bras, valued for its natural breathability and hypoallergenic properties. It provides a comfortable and soft option, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
• Spandex: Often blended with other fabrics, spandex or elastane adds stretch and flexibility to wireless bras. This ensures the bra can adapt to body movements while maintaining its shape, delivering both support and comfort.
• Mesh: Mesh fabric is utilized for its breathability and lightweight feel. Wireless bras with mesh panels promote airflow, keeping the wearer cool and making them particularly suitable for active lifestyles.

Common Misconceptions About Wireless Bras

Several misconceptions surround wireless bras, often leading to confusion about their comfort, support, and suitability for different body types. Let’s break some of them down.

A Wireless Bra Lacks Support

An absence of underwires doesn't equate to a lack of support. In fact, even in underwire bras, not all the support comes from the wire. Wire-free bras instead rely on wider elastic bands, slings, extra fabric, flexible boning, and molded cups to provide lift and support. These bras can be especially supportive for those seeking a more natural feel or for lighter bust sizes.

A Wireless Bra Has an Unflattering Shape

The dreaded uni-boob: when breasts are pushed together so tightly that they appear as one. Not only is this undesirable, it’s uncomfortable and can cause chafing and skin irritation. A uni-boob can be caused by a lack of support in a poorly designed wireless bra. But you don’t have to ditch your wire-free bra just yet. Molded cups, strategic seaming, and spacer fabrics can all help to lift and separate the breasts while creating a super flattering yet natural shape.

A Wireless Bra Isn’t Suitable for Larger Busts

Many wireless bras are specifically designed to provide support and comfort for women with larger breasts. These bras often feature strong shoulder straps, a firm chest band, and soft, flexible cups that match the natural shape of the breasts, offering better support and a flattering fit. Additionally, some wireless bras have an inner sling, power mesh lining, and extra fabric on the band for enhanced support, making them suitable for larger breasts.

While it's often been argued that a non-wired bra provides less support than an underwire bra, it's important to note that the level of support a bra provides can vary depending on design, fit, and personal preference. 

Do Wireless Bras Prevent Cancer?

We know this myth has been bouncing around the internet, so let’s dispel it now. No, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that wearing wireless bras, or any type of bra, has a direct impact on preventing or causing breast cancer. The idea that wearing bras, especially underwire bras, may contribute to breast cancer has been a longstanding myth, but it lacks credible scientific support. 

Main Advantages of Wireless Bras

Wirefree bras are majorly comfy and flexible and let you move without the restriction of the wires. Most sports bras are wire-free and still provide the support needed for high-impact movement. Let’s get into all the ways that wireless bras are an upgrade. 

Flexibility and Comfort

Wirefree bras are designed to prioritize comfort and freedom of movement, making them the most comfortable for everyday wear. The absence of underwires makes these bras more flexible, and they are often made with stretchy fabrics and adjustable straps to ensure a customized fit.

Better for Physical Activity

Most sports bras are wireless, and they have to be some of the toughest bras in your collection, supporting you during grueling runs or keeping you in place during downward dogs. 

Since you need to be able to move freely during physical activities, wire-free bras prioritize flexibility through the construction of the bra, rather than wires, using thick and stretchy fabric and thick bands and straps.

Great for Sleep or Post-Surgery

A wireless bra is ideal for sleeping or post-surgery since the soft fabric can provide support without adding pressure or restricting circulation. 

Better for Pregnancy

Pregnancy often brings changes in breast size and sensitivity. Wirefree bras, lacking the restrictive underwires, provide a more comfortable and accommodating fit. They allow for natural movement and expansion, adapting to the changing shape of the breasts without causing discomfort.

Tips for Finding the Best Wireless Bras

It can be overwhelming to shop for a bra online — which style, shape, fabric, or size is right for you? Let’s break down the top things to search for when looking for a great wire-free bra.

1. Choose the Right Size

Did you know that 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size? For your bra to feel great all day long, it has to fit properly. That’s why getting regularly fitted throughout your life is essential, especially during big transformations like pregnancy or weight changes. You can get fitted virtually with the help of our professional fitting experts. Knix bras come in a range of bra sizes from cup sizes A to H and band sizes 30 to 44, so you can find the right fit.

2. Choose the Right Style

Looking for a bra to sit seamlessly under your work clothes? Or a moisture-wicking sports bra to keep you in place during burpees? Wireless bras come in many styles that will serve you no matter what day of the week or occasion. Or you may find your favorite and wear it every day.

Consider picking up a few different colors, such as nude and black, to wear under sheer clothing, as well as some fun patterns for yourself. Different cuts, like a plunging neckline and a scoop neck, can also be useful additions to your wardrobe. 

Find the Best Wireless Bra for …

So, with those tips in mind, here are our three top recommendations if you want to wear wireless bras.

Easiest Workout Bra to Get Into: Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra

Putting on your sports bra shouldn’t be a workout. This front-closure bra makes it easy to zip out of your sweaty bra. With a wide range of size options, the Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra supports up to an H-cup. The bra features adjustable back closure and cross straps that provide extra support for large breasts. 

Best Bra for Feeling Sexy (and Supported): WingWoman Contour Bra

With a plunging neckline and molded cups, the WingWoman Contour Bra gives you shape and lift like a traditional bra without pinching or chafing. This v-neck bra has extra support along the sides and back to eliminate sideboob and spillage, perfect for folks with very large breasts. 

Best Work from Home Bra: Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra

With buttery soft Beyond Smooth fabric and a four-way stretch, the Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra has removable cups for lift and shape. Adjustable straps for the perfect fit: this bra may feel a little snug when you first get it, but that’s normal. It’s designed to relax and adapt to your shape as you wear it.

But wearing an ill-fitting bra isn’t just annoying; it can impact your sense of wellbeing. Not only can it cause breast pain and red marks from chafing, but that nasty tension headache and poor posture could be coming from your bra fitting problems. 

Despite the countless options lining store shelves, many are wearing the wrong bra size and compromising their comfort. Wearing the wrong size bra is the root of many of these problems. Once that’s fixed, the rest falls into place. 

From band conundrums to cup calamities, let’s dive into why most women unknowingly wear bras that fail to provide the support and comfort they truly deserve.

Without further ado, let’s get into the most common bra fit problems.

1. The Underwire Digs

Underwire bras have a bad rap for digging and squeezing around the ribcage. Since these bras have thin metal wires sewn into the bra cups for added support, they can be extra painful when not fitting properly. If your band is too large and sits on your breast tissue, it can rub and chafe against the skin. If the band is too loose, it won’t support the breasts. 

If the bra is too tight, it will dig into the ribcage, impacting breathing and even contributing to shoulder and neck tension. These issues affect the comfort of wearing a bra and can have long-term consequences for posture. 

2. Gaping Cups

If there is extra room in your bra cup, you could be wearing a bra that’s too big. When your bra fits properly, your breasts should fill the cups comfortably and snugly. Some breast shapes, like shallow or bell-shaped breasts, are heavier at the bottom of the breast and may be better suited for different bra styles like balconette bras or triangle bras. Like Goldilocks, you may find that a size smaller will be too small, and the size you’re wearing is too big, so consider going up a half size instead. 

3. Overflowing Cups

On the opposite end of the spectrum, when your breasts are spilling out of your bra, your cup size is likely too small. It may surprise you that sizing varies between styles and brands, so getting regularly fitted can prevent fit issues.

Bra style could play a role here as well. Folks with fuller breast shapes (like tear-drop or close-set breasts) may find that bras with less coverage, like demi-cup bras, might not provide enough support. Consider switching to a fuller coverage bra like the Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra. 

4. Only One Cup Fits 

Most women have one breast that’s bigger than the other, also known as asymmetrical breasts, according to one study. When selecting a bra, many folks choose a size that accommodates the larger breast, inadvertently leaving the other cup gaping. Instead, to accommodate this breast shape, consider bras with removable padding that can be adjusted to balance the size difference, ensuring a more symmetrical fit. Or consider a molded bra, as the single piece of fabric can smooth and even the appearance, minimizing any differences between breasts. 

5. The Bra Band Is Too Tight

Ten points if you knew that most of your bra’s support comes from your bra band, not your straps. But choosing the tightest band you can fit into won’t mean you’ll get more support. All you’ll end up with is painful red marks and the burning desire to rip your bra off. 

Your bra band should sit snugly around your ribcage without digging, essentially allowing you to move while supporting you. Your bra may not sit properly under your clothes when the band is too tight.  A snug band will evenly distribute the weight of your breasts and ensure that your bra stays in place. You should also feel comfortable and lifted. 

6. Bra Straps Dig in

One of the worst offenders on this list is digging bra straps. These can cause a world of hurt, from back and shoulder pain to unsightly red marks. As we discussed above, the bra band does a lot of the heavy lifting, and when it’s too loose, it places extra strain on the shoulder straps, causing them to dig into the skin. The wrong size isn’t always to blame here; you may be wearing a bra that’s too old. Over time, the band loses elasticity, leading to a stretched-out bra. Rotate your bras to get the most wear out of them, and replace them regularly!

Another factor may be the size of the straps: narrow or non-adjustable straps can be more uncomfortable for larger busts. Choose a wider and adjustable strap to distribute the weight evenly. 

7. Bra Straps Slipping

The constant battle between bra straps and bra wearers is a universal frustration, but it doesn’t have to be! Most often, the cause is stretched-out straps that need a quick tightening. Since straps stretch out quickly, you may need to check and adjust them regularly to ensure they stay in place. 

If you have narrow shoulders, certain styles of bras slip off more easily than others. Racerback or convertible bras, while versatile, can sometimes lead to slipping if not adjusted correctly. Ensuring the straps are tightened appropriately and choosing a style that suits your breast shape can make a significant difference. One particular bra style, bras with wider straps, like Pullover Bras or Sports Bras, have more stability and are less prone to sliding off.

8. Bra Chafing

The main cause of bra-chafing is an ill-fitting bra. This can mean that the bra is the wrong size (too small or too big.) But it may also mean that your bra is just the wrong shape or style for you. You may experience chafing under the breasts, along the sides of your breasts, or even on your shoulder straps. Chafing worsens when you sweat, like on a hot summer day or during a workout. 

Resources to Help Measure Your Bra Size

If you’re ready to say goodbye to slipping straps, squeezing bands, and all the other woes that accompany a bra that doesn’t fit, it’s time to talk about getting properly fitted. Getting regularly fitted is essential to helping you feel supported and confident in your bra, especially throughout the changes in your life.

At Knix, we really wanted to help more women avoid bra-fitting problems altogether. As an online retailer, we know bra shopping online can be daunting. That’s why we developed our virtual fit program to help measure your size. Learn more about it today and book your appointment!

What to Expect From a Knix Virtual Fitting

Book a virtual bra fitting and we’ll connect you with one of our expert Knix team members for a one-on-one fitting session over video chat. 

For your bra fitting, we recommend you wear a bra with little or no padding and a fitted t-shirt to make sure we get an accurate measurement. You’ll also need either a) a soft measuring tape or b) a piece of string or cord and a tape measure or ruler.

With different styles and sizes for 30A to 42G in the world’s most comfortable and supportive wireless bras, our fit experts can help you get into something you will love to wear every day.

How to Measure Bra Size At Home

You can get a good idea of your bra size at home by using a tape measure and doing a little bit of math. But consider this a “jumping off point” rather than a conclusive answer about what bra size you should wear.

Wear an unpadded, well-fitting bra and grab a soft measuring tape. For the band size, measure around your ribcage beneath your bust, ensuring the tape is snug but not tight. Round up to the nearest even number. Next, measure the fullest part of your bust, ensuring the tape is parallel to the ground. 

Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement to determine your cup size. For each inch of difference, you correspond to a cup size (1 inch=A, 2 inches=B, and so on). Combining your band size and cup size reveals your accurate size. 

Remember to retake your measurements often to ensure that you're wearing the correct size. This is especially important during big life changes like pregnancy. 

Ditch Your Ill-Fitting Bra! 

Life’s too short to be uncomfortable in your bra! Wearing an ill-fitting bra isn’t just annoying; the tension can cause headaches and even can cause bad posture.

Everyone should feel confident and comfortable in their bras. If you’re waging a never-ending war against your bra, it’s time to get fitted or retake your measurements. Getting fitted regularly is essential since your size may change throughout your life. Pregnancy, weight changes, aging, and surgery can all impact your size. It’s important to have bras that make you feel supported, no matter what the number on the size chart.

The Truth About "Armpit Fat"

Let’s get something out of the way first and foremost: while often referred to as back fat or underarm fat, these areas aren’t necessarily fat at all but extra tissue, skin, or muscle. Some styles offer less support, which can create bulging or extra skin can get pushed up and out. Wearing a well-fitting bra means a smooth silhouette and a more comfortable fit.

Of course, if you’re feeling uncomfortable in your underwear or want to create a more flattering fit, you can always try different types with built-in compression or layer-on shapewear. Ultimately, we want you to feel like you've finally found the one that fits as desired. Let’s get into it!  

What to Avoid 

Waging a constant war against side boobs, underarm bulge, and back fat? The bra you wear may be part of the problem.

When you’re in a bra that’s too small, it can squeeze extra skin and tissue out of the cups and band, giving the appearance of back fat and armpit fat. 

Wrong Size

When the cup size is too small, it can’t provide enough room for your breasts, causing them to spill over the edges of the cups or out of the sides. This can create side boobs. This can create the appearance of underarm fat and even impact the band, causing bulges on the back.

When your band is too tight, it can squeeze the skin and muscle up into your armpits or under your band, causing lumps and bumps under your clothes. 

Putting on the wrong size can even impact your posture! If you're concerned this is the case, record a video of yourself sitting and standing to see whether there's any impact. 

Too Tight Strap

If your straps are too tight, you may find that your skin gets pushed up into your underarms or under your band. 

Thin Strap 

Women with larger chests may find that thin straps aren't right. Straps play an important role in lifting your breasts. The larger the chest, the bigger the job of lifting and holding them up, and the more impact that will have on the little, tiny piece of bra strap. If it digs in, it can cause tissue to migrate into the armpits or around the back band. 

Try a Different Style

The right bra style is imperative for function, fit, and fashion. You wouldn’t do a high-intensity workout without a great workout bra?  Some styles may be more comfortable, flattering, and supportive for folks with larger chests and might be a better option. As always, wear what feels right for you! There’s no right or wrong answer here. 

What to Consider: 

It should go without saying that you feel amazing in your bra. If you've been struggling with your bra fitting, giving you side boobs, or underarm bulge, then look for one that covers, lifts, and tucks with panels, material and thoughtful design.

Wide Bands

Folks with larger breasts know that a wide band is key to distributing the weight of their chest. Stick with us for a moment of math: a wider band means more surface area to distribute the weight, while a narrow band has less surface area. 

Think of it like spreading butter on toast: A narrow knife concentrates the pressure, pushing the butter outwards. A wider knife distributes the pressure more evenly, keeping the butter within the bread's bounds. With a more even weight distribution, less pressure on your underarms means less bulging.

Some wide bands are made with materials like lycra and spandex that can shape and compress without feeling tight or uncomfortable. This can help smooth any underarm bulge. 

However, let’s be clear: bras are undergarments and lingerie, not shapewear. 

But even the widest band can’t help if your bra is the wrong size! Your bra band should sit snugly around your ribcage without digging, and the cups should fully encompass the breasts without bulging. 

Extended Side Panels

Bras with extended side panels often have extra-wide backs and sides, with at least three hooks in height, to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. They are particularly recommended for fuller-busted folks and are designed to enhance forward projection and provide high comfort and hold.

Also known as side support or side smoothing panels, they help prevent the breasts from spilling over to the sides, minimizing the appearance of armpit fat and creating a smoother silhouette. 

Some panels use mildly compressive fabrics, gently tucking and smoothing bulges for a more contoured look. Choose a side-support bra if you want to reduce chafing, as the panels can minimize friction between skin and clothing.

Full-Coverage Cups

The dreaded side boob. Extended side panels can and should help prevent some of this, but cups with more cover can also help. As the name implies, full-coverage cups cover the whole breast, unlike the demi or balconette style. With more material, your chest should be fully encompassed and have less opportunity to spill out of the sides. 

Wide Straps

Like a wide band, wide straps have more surface area, giving better lift and distributing weight evenly across the shoulders. This can help to prevent the bra from digging into the skin, which can cause bulging. Since wide straps are less likely to slip off the shoulders, they are more likely to stay in place and maintain a smooth line across the back and underarm area.

Wireless Bra

While no bra can magically "minimize" underarm fat or back bulges, some styles can help create a smoother silhouette. Wireless bras are more form-fitting and comfortable due to their lack of an underwire. Since wireless bras are often made with stretchy fabric, they naturally conform to the body. Consider a few of the following styles:

• T-shirt bras: these are designed with seamless cups to create a smooth silhouette under clothing, minimizing the visibility of any bulges.
• Sports bras: these are often designed with wider bands and straps to provide a comfortable fit while minimizing the appearance of underarm and back fat.
• Smoothing bras: these often feature seamless construction and wider bands to offer a sleek and smooth look under clothing.
• Front closure bras:  these with front closures can have a smoothing effect on the back and underarms, creating a seamless appearance. 

Shapewear 

For a seamless and smooth look, shapewear may be a better option. Items like bodysuits and tanks use compression fabrics to shape and smooth the body. This can distribute extra skin, tissue, and fat to create a smoother silhouette. 

Look for shapewear that fits well and provides the right amount of support and comfort. While it may seem counterintuitive, choosing too-tight shapewear can create bulges rather than smoothing out lumps. 

Time for a Change

Imagine you've finally found the perfect bra that makes you feel sexy and confident. You love to wear it. Amid all those conflicting messages about self-love and body image, we’re here to shout from the rooftops – love your body just the way it is. No need to hide anything!

Now, let's get real about those areas we sometimes label as "back bulge" or "underarm fat." It might just be some extra tissue, skin, or muscle. And guess what? It's all good. But here's the kicker: wearing the wrong one can make things look wonky.

We've spilled the tea on some options that might be causing the drama – balconettes, plunge bras, you name it. But don't worry, we've got the 411 on what you should be looking for instead. Think wide bands, extended side panels, full-coverage cups, and wide straps. These are the heroes that can save the day, giving you that smooth, flawless look.

The most common culprit for bra pain is the underwire bra. Made with plastic or metal wires around the cups and band for additional support, wireless bras can pinch, rub, or dig when you’re wearing the wrong size or it’s lost shape.

But never fear! If you're not wearing an underwire bra and you’re still asking yourself, why does my bra hurt my ribs? You're not alone!

There’s a range of possibilities for your bra woes, including wearing the wrong size or style, a change in your body shape, or even that your bra is old (and needs to hit the recycle!) 

5 Reasons Your Bra Might Hurt Your Ribs

There are a few reasons why your bra might be feeling more like a medieval torture device than a method of support and style. 

1. Wrong Size Bra

A major factor could be that you’re in the wrong bra size! According to a 2008 study, 80% of women wear bras the wrong size. Wearing ill-fitting bras can lead to discomfort and pain. If you're not wearing the correct bra size, the bra can be too tight, which can cause rib pain.

There are a few easy ways to tell if you’re wearing the wrong bra size. Consider whether you’re suffering from any of the following:

• The underwire hurts your ribcage
• The band rides up your back
• Your bra leaves painful marks on your skin
• The straps slide off your shoulders, even after tightening them
• Your breasts bulge out of your cups or sides
• You’re uncomfortable

It’s normal for your body to change throughout your life. You may lose weight, gain weight, or even grow a human. For all these reasons (and more!), you may need a new bra. 

Weight changes may make your bra feel too tight or loose, while hormonal changes (which can happen in a month!) can impact breast size and sensitivity. We’re not saying you need a new set of bras throughout your cycle, but you may want to adjust your bra accordingly.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding will increase the size and shape of your breasts. Natural aging will impact the skin's elasticity and breast tissue, which could affect how your bras fit and feel.

2. Type of Bra (Underwire vs. Wireless)

Underwire

Underwire bras have a metal wire sewn into the bottom of the bra cup to lift and separate the breasts. These powerful little wires have stopped bullets and even set off TSA metal detectors.

Underwire bra pain is caused by the bra being the wrong size. You may feel the following if you are wearing the wrong size underwire bra:

• The cup wire is too small if it squeezes and pinches your breasts instead of supporting them. 
• The cup wire is too large if it extends too far into the armpit, digging into the skin instead of leaving you with enough space to move freely.  
• The bra gore (the fabric between the cups) may chafe at the skin when the cups are too large or small.
• A bra that’s too tight will squeeze the underwire into the sternum, leading to referred pain in the ribs.
• A bra that is too loose will rub against the skin and cause red marks. 

Breast cancer survivors and others with breast sensitivity may find that the rigidity of an underwire isn’t the right choice for them. 

It’s important to wear a bra that fits and supports your body without being too tight. 

Wireless

Wireless bras are a much more comfortable alternative. Since they rely on design and extra fabric to provide support rather than bits of metal, there’s less opportunity for digging and pinching. Of course, if you’re wearing the wrong size wireless bra, it can be uncomfortable as well. 

When you head out for your next sweat sesh at the gym, you may be surprised to learn that your sports bra is wireless. Since they’re flexible and made of soft and stretchy, they’re great for the chaos of life, whether you’re wrestling your kids into their clothes or vegging out on the couch. 

3. Body Shape 

Many folks have rib flares, which makes wearing underwire bras uncomfortable. When your ribs are more prominent and protruding downward, the underwire can’t sit comfortably against your chest. This may result in uneven pressure distribution, making the bra uncomfortable and potentially irritating the areas where the underwire comes into contact with the ribs.

The underwire is designed to sit snugly underneath the bust and follow the natural curve of the ribcage. However, the lower ribs may protrude more than usual in individuals with rib flares. This can lead to the underwire pressing directly against the protruding ribs, causing discomfort or pain.

4. Your Bra Is Old

Over time, bras can lose their elasticity and shape. If the underwire has become distorted or damaged, it may no longer provide proper support and may dig into the rib cage. Regularly replacing bras is important to ensure optimal support and comfort.

Here are a few signs that indicate that your bra needs to be replaced:

• The band is stretched out, causing it to ride up.
• The underwire is poking out or won’t lie flat.
• The bra has lost its shape and support.

If any of the above are happening to your bra, it might be time to replace it. Consider rotating your bras to get more wear, and replace them after 12 months.

5. Certain Health Conditions

If you have any health conditions, these may contribute to bra pain and should be discussed with your doctor. Always check with your doctor or healthcare provider if you continue to experience pain or are experiencing intense and ongoing pain.

• Breast cysts: cysts in the breast can cause tenderness and pain, which can be exacerbated by pressure from your bra
• Fibrocystic breasts: Fibrocystic breasts are painful, lumpy breasts. This refers to common and normal breast changes, usually around your period. 
• Dermatitis: irritated skin on the chest may make wearing a bra uncomfortable
• Muscle strain or injury: overusing a muscle in your chest can cause pain, and wearing a bra can make it worse
• Gastric Reflux: gastrointestinal issues can cause chest pain and be mistaken for bra pain

What to Do About a Bra That Hurts

While you may have gotten used to suffering every time you put on your bra, that shouldn’t be your norm. Here are a few simple ways to alleviate your pain and feel comfortable and supported whenever you put on your bra.

Get Fitted Regularly

The easiest way to ensure you’re wearing the right bra size is to take (or retake) your measurements. Since your breasts may have changed since the last time you measured (and can you even remember the last time you did), it’s a good idea to have an up-to-date number.

You can measure yourself at home with a soft measuring tape and a little math for a great jumping-off point. Learn more about the traditional method of measuring your bra size.

Because there’s so much to consider when finding the right bra size and style, it’s strongly recommended that you get professionally fitted (either virtually or in-store). 

The right size bra can make a huge difference to comfort and how your clothes fit. There’s no reason to keep suffering with painful bras. Book a virtual fitting.

Adjust Your Straps and Band

While it may seem obvious, a simple adjustment like loosening your bra band may provide some relief.  When your band is too tight, it can exert pressure on your ribs, causing discomfort.

There are a number of reasons why your band may feel too tight, including changes to your body or just the result of eating a large meal. You should always feel comfortable and supported in your clothes. Of course, your band should always remain snug to provide support.

Additionally, if the discomfort is coming from your underwire, repositioning it may help. To avoid rib pain, ensure that the underwire is sitting in the crease beneath your breasts rather than on top of the breasts. Proper alignment can help distribute the support evenly and reduce any digging into the ribs.

Consider loosening your bra straps. Tight shoulder straps restrict the movement of the ribcage and chest. Surprisingly, loosening the bra straps allows for unrestricted movement and could help relieve the rib cage pain. However, it's essential to maintain enough tension in the straps to ensure proper support for the breasts.

Maintain Your Bras

Properly washing and caring for your bras is another important step in helping them keep their shape and structure. While it’s often recommended that you wash your bra after every 2-3 wears, there’s a big caveat attached to that answer. You might get less wear from your bras if you’re hot and sweaty in the summer. 

Of course, sports bras get extra dirty from sweat and oil and should take a trip to the washing machine after every use. If your bra stinks, then it’s time to wash it. Use common sense! Read all about how to keep your bras in tip-top shape.

Rotate Your Bras

Rotating your bras is a great way to preserve and prolong their lifespan by reducing the wear and tear on the fabric. A good way to do this is by having two to three bras in your closet to swap between. We all have a favorite bra (maybe it’s that cute lacy one or the dependable one that works under everything), but try your best to switch them up. 

Wearing the same bra every day means the fibers can lose their elasticity faster and cause the band to lose shape and support. When you rotate between bras, the fabric can rest and return to its original shape. 

Consider Going Wireless

One different bra style that might help with rib pain is a wireless bra. A wireless bra is great for everyday wear if you’re constantly digging at your bra and aching from rib pain. Wireless offers more flexibility and less pressure and can adapt to the body without the rigid underwire. These bras are made from soft, stretchy fabric and minimize the risk of rubbing and irritating. 

You should always be comfortable and supported, no matter which bra style or brand you prefer. Knix makes super comfy bras for every occasion, whether you’re lounging on the couch or powering through your spin class. 

Knix Bras: Discover the Best Bra for You

Here are two recommendations for different bra styles for different kinds of wearers and needs:

Comfiest Everyday Bra: WingWoman Contour Bra

Molded foam cups lift and separate without adding a wire that could dig or scrap the skin. A plunging v-shape makes the WingWoman Bra ideal for wearing on date night, and its comfortable fabric makes it perfect for a night on the couch. 

No Fuss, No Muss Bra: Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra

With a simple pullover design, you don’t have to worry about messing with a back closure when it comes to the Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra. Buttery soft fabric and removable cups make this ideal and comfortable for every occasion.

The Wear It With Everything Bra: The One&Only Scoop Bra

Everyone should have a go-to bra in their collection, one that works with most tops and outfits in their closet, and the One&Only Scoop Bra is it. The scoop-low neckline makes it ideal for wearing under different styles of shirts, and the customizable straps that can be changed to straight or racerback mean that you never have to battle your bra straps in tank tops again. 

Is it Time to Make the Switch?

There’s a good chance your bra pain is from wearing the wrong size or style for your body, and thankfully, that’s an easy fix! Make sure to get fitted by a professional fitter to check your size regularly since changes to your body are normal.

Since underwire bras can be uncomfortable, wireless bras are a great everyday option that can be just as supportive without discomfort. Plus, wireless bras are easier to care for than underwire bras, another plus in their favor.

Since this idea is so prevalent, you may have been putting up with uncomfortable bras your whole life, thinking this is normal. But first things first: Your bra should never be painful! Bras should support, enhance, or add a touch of flare to your outfits. Your bra should be lifting you (excuse the pun), not dragging you down!

There are a few simple reasons why your bra is irritating you. A major one is that you’re wearing a bra that’s the wrong size or style for your body. A bra that isn’t supporting you, doesn’t feel comfortable, or doesn’t provide the shape you want, is likely the wrong size. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details. 

7 Most Common Issues with Bras

You may be on auto-pilot when wearing your favorite bras, used to the pinch of your straps or the riding up of your bra strap, so take a minute to consider the following issues.

1. It’s Too Tight

Is your bra leaving indentations in your skin? Red marks and welts on your shoulder straps or around your rib cage? When your bra is too tight, it can’t properly support your breasts. You may find that the bra doesn’t sit smoothly under your clothes. 

An easy way to tell whether your bra is too tight is to check your bra band. The band should lie parallel to the floor. The bra is too tight if it’s riding up between your shoulder blades. A too-tight band can constrict breathing.

When you first buy a bra, it may feel a bit snug, especially if you are transitioning from an old, worn-out bra. However, a well-fitted bra should feel comfortable initially, and any tightness should subside as you wear it. Allow a short break-in period for a new bra to adjust to your body. Sometimes, the fabric and elastic need a little time to stretch and mold to your shape. 

2. You’re Wearing Underwire Bras

While underwire bras can provide tons of support, most women have a love-hate relationship with wearing them. Why? The sturdy plastic or metal wire that differentiates this bra style and is meant to provide support can dig into your ribs or squeeze your breasts. 

This mainly happens when you’re wearing an ill-fitting bra, a poorly constructed bra, or an old and falling apart bra. For example, in poorly constructed bras, the wires may not be encased with enough fabric, leading to poking and prodding. Or when your bra is too old, the wires may shift and not fit properly in the cups. 

This can happen after general wear and tear or not washing and caring for the bra properly. Certain body shapes – like folks with rib flares or shorter torsos – may generally find the wires more uncomfortable.

3. Slipping and Digging Straps

Are you waging a constant battle with your bra straps? Constantly readjusting your straps is downright annoying and low-key distracting. Your straps play an important role in supporting 

your breasts, so slipping straps aren’t just irritating; they mean you don’t have the lift you need. This can lead to your bra band having to carry more of the load, resulting in the band digging. You may also over tighten your straps to try to fix this problem, causing them to dig into your shoulders, resulting in shoulder and neck pain, plus nasty red marks. 

Choosing the right bra style for your body may help solve this problem: folks with narrow or sloping shoulders should shy away from balconette bras as they have wide-set straps that can easily slip off or dig. 

Or you may just need a new bra; straps stretch out over time, causing them to slip off your shoulder and resulting in uneven support. 

Like all the issues on this list, wearing the wrong bra could be the root of these problems. When your bra band is too loose, the straps have to do more work, causing digging. 

4. You’re Spilling Over the Cups

There’s a difference between cleavage and not fitting into your bra. You’ll know your breasts aren’t properly fitting into your bra cups if your bust is spilling over the top edge of the bra cup, creating a bulge. Your cups should match the natural shape of your breasts; if the cups flatten or smush the breasts, they are likely too small or the wrong shape. 

You won’t be surprised to learn that this issue is uncomfortable because the edges of the cups can dig into the breasts and put pressure on the tissue, leaving red marks and indentations. This can be especially uncomfortable for folks with larger breasts. 

Like the slipping straps, you may find yourself constantly adjusting and annoyed by this issue. Spillage may be visible under clothing, which may make you feel self-conscious. You're likely wearing the wrong cup size. 

An easy fix: get resized to ensure you’re comfortable and supported. 

5. Wearing Bras That Are Worn Out

We all have a favorite bra; maybe it’s that perfect shade of nude that works under all your clothes, or it’s a super flattering shape, and you feel confident when you wear it. But unfortunately, like all good things in life, bras eventually wear out and need to be replaced. 

The bra may lose its elasticity, resulting in a lack of support and structure. Or the cups can get stretched out from repeated wear and washing. The hook-and-eye closure (the back clasps that connect the bra) can easily get destroyed in the washing machine or the dryer, which is another reason to properly care for and maintain your bras.

You’ll want to replace bras after nine to twelve months of wear to ensure that the fabric, straps, seams, and hook-and-eye closure are all in good condition and working properly.

6.  Inconsistency in Sizing

Just like shopping for jeans, just because you’re a size 34 at one store doesn’t mean much at another one. Unfortunately, the same is true when shopping for bras. There isn’t a universal standard of bra fitting across brands. 

If all your bras are the same size but from different stores, you probably have a few that aren’t fitting right. Some bras may be too tight, or you may be wearing a loose bra. Different brands may design bras with varying cup shapes, depths, and widths. 

The elasticity and tension of bra bands can differ between brands. The placement and width of bra straps can even vary between brands. With all these differences, you may feel frustrated, like no bra fits you. 

7. Limited Bra Size and Style Options

It is so frustrating to find the perfect bra only to realize that they don’t carry it in your size. Limited size options may mean you have to knowingly buy the wrong size bra because your size isn’t available. Wearing an ill-fitting bra can cause skin irritation from chafing, lead to a lack of support, and may not provide the shape and structure desired. 

Plus, you may feel discouraged and emotionally uncomfortable every time you get dressed, which is not the way to start your day. On the other side of the coin is limited style options. 

What to Look for in a Comfortable Bra

Here’s the truth: you shouldn’t even notice you’re wearing a bra; that’s how comfortable bras should be. If that sounds like it’s a bit of a fairy tale, then learn how to achieve that magical result now. 

Correct Bra Size

Okay, so you’re convinced. You’re wearing the wrong size. What now? You can start by measuring yourself at home with a tape measure and a little math. Consider this a jumping-off point rather than the definitive answer to your forever bra size. 

Since you understand how uncomfortable wearing the wrong size can be, getting professionally measured can ensure that you’re in the right size and the right fit for your body. 

As an online retailer, we know making a bra purchase online can be especially daunting. That’s why we developed our virtual fit program to help measure your bra size from the comfort of home.

What to Expect from a Knix Virtual Fitting:

We’ll connect you with one of our expert Knix team members for a one-on-one fitting session over video chat. For your bra fitting, we recommend you wear a bra with little or no padding and a fitted t-shirt to ensure we get an accurate measurement. 

You’ll also need either a) a soft measuring tape or b) a piece of string or cord and a tape measure or ruler.

With different styles and sizes for 30A to 42G in the world’s most comfortable and supportive wireless bras, our fit experts can help you get into something you will love to wear every day.

Choose a Wireless Bra

If you’re looking for next-level comfort, wireless is the way to go. Made with soft, stretchy fabrics and lacking a rigid underwire, wireless bras naturally conform to the body. Your sports bra is likely wireless since the thick, flexible fabric makes it ideal for movement. 

Sleep bras, lounge bras, and bras for everyday wear are also wireless. There’s a much lower likelihood of chafing when wearing wireless bras, and of course, no need to worry about poking for pesky underwires. 

Go for Seamless Construction

Seamless bras are more comfortable due to their design, which eliminates seams, wires, and other potential irritation points. The seamless construction provides a smooth and sleek appearance, reducing the likelihood of chafing or rubbing against the skin. The absence of seams means no rough edges or stitching can dig into sensitive areas, enhancing overall comfort. 

Seamless bras also conform more closely to the body's natural contours, offering a snug yet gentle fit without creating pressure points. This seamless design is particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or those looking for a bra that feels barely there. 

Additionally, seamless bras often use soft and stretchy fabrics, allowing for a more flexible and adaptable fit, accommodating the body's movements without compromising comfort. Overall, the seamless construction of these bras contributes to a comfortable and irritation-free wearing experience, making them a popular choice for various daily activities.

Choose a Brand with Size Inclusivity 

In 2024, it should be standard that brands are size-inclusive, making folks feel comfortable and confident when they get dressed. We provide an extensive range of A-H cup sizes to be as inclusive as possible. Since comfort in a bra is closely tied to proper fit, size inclusivity allows individuals to find bras that provide the right support, coverage, and shape for their unique bodies. We hope to promote a more positive and empowering experience.

I may reach for a sports bra because I’m heading for a workout class or another because I love the cute pattern, while another is more practical for the day’s outfit. But most of the time, it doesn’t cross my mind whether a bra is wireless or underwire, though it really should.

Underwire bras have a semi-circular metal wire (or plastic wire) sewn around the bottom and sides of each cup. This wire is usually sewn into the bra with extra fabric around it so that it feels more comfortable.

Underwire bras are meant to lift, separate, and hold the breasts in place and are often preferred by folks with larger busts or for a more defined look. 

Unfortunately, underwired bras can also be rigid and uncomfortable, especially when they are not the right size. When your underwired bra isn’t fitted properly, the wires can dig into your ribs, breasts, and armpits. The band can squeeze your sternum or chafe along your shoulders. 

6 Reasons Why You Might Not Love Your Underwire Bra

Let’s face it: underwire bras aren’t the comfiest underwear you can pull out of your lingerie drawer, but a few factors may be making it absolutely torturous to put on.  

1. Underwires Can Be Inflexible

Remember how it used to be critical to take an outfit from day to night? Well, your underwire might not be as flexible. The rigid wires are meant to hold your breasts in place, meaning that going from meetings in the office to vacuuming your floors and playing with your dog might not be comfortable in the same bra. 

Wearers often complain that underwire bras can feel restrictive, especially when you want to move around more freely. Most sports bras are wireless, with flexible fabrics that are much thicker and contain elastic, which makes them much easier to move around.

2. You're Wearing the Wrong Size

A stunning 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra, according to a 2008 study. It’s extra painful when you’re wearing an underwire since the constrictive wires can squeeze and pinch the breasts, ribs, and even your armpits.

While the bra band doesn’t have any wires, it can be too tight and squeeze your ribs and sides if you’re wearing the wrong size. 

If you’re experiencing any of the following, you may be wearing the wrong size bra:

• The underwire hurts your ribcage
• The band rides up your back
• Your bra leaves painful marks on your skin
• The straps slide off your shoulders, even after tightening them
• Your breasts bulge out of your cups or sides
• You’re uncomfortable

3. Your Bra Is Old

While the underwire should be securely sewn into the cups, regular wear and tear can cause the wires to poke through the fabric. If the underwire has become distorted or damaged, it won’t provide support and can dig into the body. Update your bra collection every twelve months and rotate your bras to get the most wear out of the ones you own. 

Here are a few signs that your bra needs to be replaced:

• The band is stretched out, causing it to ride up.
• The underwire is poking out or won’t lie flat.
• The bra has lost its shape and support. 

If any of the above are happening to your bra, it might be time to replace it. 

4. Body Shape (Rib Shape or Weight Changes)

Your underwire bra may be digging into your ribs for a few reasons. Some folks have more prominent ribs, also known as rib flares, which can make wearing an underwire challenging. Since most underwire bras are meant to sit flush against the sternum, their naturally protruding ribs can push and rub against the wires.

It’s normal for your body to change throughout your life: aging, having children, illness, and gaining or losing weight can all impact your breast size and shape. For all these reasons (and more!), you may change your bra size. And that’s totally ok! There is no ideal size, just the size that makes you feel great, supported, and comfortable in your clothes. 

5. Breast Shape

Understanding your breast shape is pretty important when choosing your bra. You may have more breast tissue at the bottom of your breast (giving you a teardrop shape) or less breast tissue altogether (athletic or shallow). While your breasts change throughout the hormonal cycle and your life, you can get a good sense of the seven most common breast shapes. 

A few breast shapes that may be less suited for underwire bras are:

• Asymmetrical breasts
• East-west breasts
• Shallow breasts

You’ve probably heard the expression; breasts are sisters, not twins. According to one study, it’s quite common to have some degree of breast asymmetry, basically where one breast is noticeably larger or a different shape than the other. 

Wearing an underwire can be challenging for someone with asymmetrical breasts since the underwire won’t be able to accommodate the different sizes and shapes. It may feel like you’re wearing the wrong size bra on one cup while fitting on the other. The rigid wires can dig into the larger breast or rub and chafe in places where the cups are too big.

Breasts and nipples that point outwards are often referred to as east-west or wide-set breasts. 

Shallow breasts tend to have a larger base, meaning the breast tissue extends further along the chest and closer to the other breast.

6. High Maintenance 

If you’re used to throwing your bra into the wash with all the rest of your clothes, then maintaining an underwire bra might feel like a lot of extra work. It’s generally recommended to hand wash underwire bras and line-dry them. 

Underwire bras should receive a little extra love from gentle detergents or even specialty lingerie detergents to help preserve the elasticity. Since they can get caught or snagged in the washing machine, it’s best to be extra gentle with them. Heat from the dryer can also weaken the elasticity or damage the underwire. 

Rotating your bras and switching between a few different types of bras and styles can help maintain them. 

But Underwire Bras Do Have Some Advantages

Despite some of the gripes associated with underwire bras, they come in clutch when you need extra support (especially for ladies with larger breasts) or want to have a beautifully defined shape.

Sewn under and along the sides of each cup of these bras is a thin metal wire that lifts and separates the breasts. If you have a larger cup size, you know the wire will be holding you up, whereas, with other types of bras, you’ll have to be more choosy and conscious of fabric and style to get the same level of support.

Acting like a frame, it lifts up and evenly distributes the weight, meaning less pressure on your shoulder straps. 

A blessing and a curse, those rigid wires keep everything propped and in place, meaning you’ll feel secure when you should feel super secure when you’re moving around. Previously, underwire bras were the gold standard for achieving that extra oomph when lifting and separating. Thanks to new technology and innovative designs, Knix’s wireless bras can support and sculpt, without a painful wire. 

Dispelling Underwire Bra Myths:

You may be wondering, are underwire bras harmful? Especially if you've heard any of these myths and misconceptions. But they're generally considered safe and supportive, so it's a personal preference whether you choose to wear one or not. 

Underwire Bras Cause Breast Cancer

Let's set the record straight: wearing a bra won't increase your breast cancer risk. There's no scientific evidence that suggests a direct link between wearing underwire bras and an increased risk of breast cancer. 

The idea that underwire bras might contribute to breast cancer has been a topic of discussion for many years, but research has not supported this claim.

The reasons for developing breast cancer are complex, including genetics, hormones, environment, and lifestyle, but it's important to stress that your underwear preference isn't a factor. 

Underwire Bras Cause Breast Sagging

Throughout our lives, our breasts will change! Aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, and surgery may change the volume and tone of your breasts. That's completely normal. Wearing an underwire bra (or not) won't contribute to breasts sagging or changing. It may even help provide extra support and lift! 

Underwire Bras Hinder Lymphatic Drainage

Underwire bras can be constrictive, especially if you're wearing the wrong size, but there's no evidence that it will stop lymph fluid or impact the lymphatic system. 

4 Reasons to Try a Wireless Bra

In an argument, wire-free bras (also known as soft cup) will always win on comfort compared to underwire bras. While underwire bras used to be preferred for lift and fit, wireless has come a long way. With new technology, beautiful styles and shapes, and obviously, the most comfortable fit, a non-wired bra is kind of a no-brainer. 

While you’ll always be uncomfortable wearing the wrong size, wireless bras won’t have the opportunity to dig into your sides or squeeze you in all the wrong places. Here are a few reasons why non-wired bras may be the right bra for you:

1. Technology Has Come A Long Way

Wireless bras use high-performance fabrics, such as microfiber blends and moisture-wicking materials, which make them more comfortable and breathable. There are also so many ways to add support structures in wireless bras.

Some bras incorporate thicker materials or integrated support bands that mimic the lift and support traditionally associated with underwires without the discomfort of rigid wires. 

2. Next Level Comfort

Wireless bras are made from flexible fabrics and form-fitting shapes. They are much more comfortable moving in and less restrictive than rigid underwire bras. Since they lack the wires that characterize the underwire bra, there’s no fear of being pinched or prodded by an errant bit of metal or squeezed by the confining shape.

Many more wireless bras are changing to a seamless structure, which minimizes irritation and provides a smoother feel against the skin, eliminating the discomfort associated with seams and stitching.

3. Good Support & Shape

Wireless bras have undergone significant innovation in recent years, providing shaping and lift without wires. This includes strategic paneling, built-in structures, and 3D knitting technologies.

Built-in reinforcements like molded cups, side panels, and under-bust bands provide support and shaping without relying on an underwire. By incorporating these elements into the bra's construction, designers can create a supportive framework that lifts and supports the bust, enhancing comfort and confidence.

4. Many Styles to Explore

Depending on your mood, style, or how much activity you plan on getting up to in a day, a wireless bra is perfect for you. Here are a few popular types:

• Padded Wireless Bra: have additional padding in the cups for added shape, support, or modesty. 
• Non-padded Wireless Bra: these lack padding in the cup for a more natural look. 
• Seam-free Wireless Bra: designed without seams on the cups, these are ideal for wearing under-fitted or thin fabric, as they eliminate the risk of seams showing through.
• Sports Wireless Bra: these provide extra support during physical activity with the help of wide straps, a supportive band, and moisture-wicking fabric.

Knix Wireless Bras: Discover the Best Bra for You

With that in mind, here are three top recommendations for different bra styles for different kinds of wearers and needs.

Best Wireless Bra for High Support: Catalyst Sports Bra

The Catalyst Sports Bra is the most supportive sports bra you’ll put on. Drastically reducing breast movement, the Catalyst outperformed over 800 bras it was tested against! And no more struggling to get it off after a sweaty workout; easily unhook the back clasps instead of struggling to squirm out of it. 

What reviewers say:

“I love the colors, and the support was amazing. I highly recommend it. 

It has loved everything I have got from Knix: amazing support with no wires. Super comfortable!” 

“This sports bra offers a great amount of support for when you're working out! You don't have to worry about spillage or anything! It's soft, smooth, and comfortable!”

Best Bra for Day to Night: Wingwoman Contour Bra

Who doesn’t want to look and feel sexy while also having a bra that fits and functions under their everyday clothes? Well, the WingWoman Contour Bra does just that, with a plunging neckline and molded cups for cleavage and extra side coverage to eliminate any side boob. It’s the best of both worlds! 

What reviewers say:

“The support and comfort is unreal. Give it a few wears as it is snug at first, but then, honestly, it sculpts to you, and I don’t even feel it on. I’m never returning to wired bras.”

“This bra is so comfortable, which I have a hard time finding. I am one of those people if I don’t have to wear one, I won’t! But this bra I can keep on all day. And it doesn’t make your boobs look weird either. Love it!”

Comfiest Bra for WFH: Good to Go Seamless Bra

The Good to Go Seamless Bra fits with the comfort of a tank top but provides the support of a sports bra. The seamless design won’t show through to tight t-shirts or clothes over the top. 

What reviewers say:

“I was nervous about ordering anything online as my sizing has changed drastically over the last year and a half. I bought this bra, just why not? And honestly, it's my favorite. It's the most comfortable thing I've ever had supporting me.”

Time to Make the Switch

Are underwire bras bad? Absolutely not. If you're in pain when wearing one, you’re probably just wearing the wrong size. Ultimately, the bra you wear is your preference, and if one style or design suits you better, that's what is important.

Your lingerie drawer should have a variety of bras for all types of occasions, activities, and moods! Rotate between wired, underwired bras, nudes, and frilly depending on your needs and clothes for the day. But if comfort is your main concern, our vote is for wireless.

Whether you swim for a workout, do aqua-fitness or just lounge by a pool, dipping in occasionally, odds are at some point you’ll need to don your swimsuit when you’re on your period.

Swimming On Your Period: It Can Be Done

First, let’s be clear: You can absolutely swim when you’re on your period (you can also take baths). And, some find that the pressure of the water can reduce your period flow while you’re in it.

Moreover, exercising when you have your period is good for relieving cramps and other symptoms. So, if swimming is your preferred exercise, you shouldn’t let that time of the month hold you back.

But it’s natural to worry about leaks and want to approach swimming when you’re on your period with an abundance of caution. Let’s dive in (pun intended!)

Option 1: Disposable Products (i.e. Tampons)

While pads are not a good option for swimming, tampons are worn internally so will offer protection, and period absorption when you’re swimming. It’s a good idea to make sure you change your tampon regularly, especially if you’re on a heavy flow day, to minimize the chances of leaks. And if you do wear a tampon in the water, you should change it after you get out of the water (pool, lake or ocean). 

Disadvantages of Disposable Products

It goes without saying that disposable menstruation products have some disadvantages. These include:

• Environmental waste: The average woman experiences around 456 total periods in her lifetime. That works out to about 240 tampons used per year or 9,600 throughout a lifetime. That’s a lot of waste! 250 to 300 pounds of waste to be exact. [Source]. 
• Cost: Feminine hygiene products are not cheap and many simply cannot afford them. It’s exciting to think how reusable leakproof products could revolutionize periods for women worldwide. Let’s face it: None of us are wishlisting tampons on our monthly spend! Those saved dollars can definitely add up!
• Health: Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare bacterial infection associated with tampon use. Other reports pose additional questions about the safety of tampon ingredients.

Option 2: Reusable Internal Menstruation Products

Tampons are not your only option, though, and some reusable products are worn internally too and can be tried worn when swimming. The most popular of these is the menstrual cup.

Menstrual cups are flexible cup-shaped devices that you wear inside your vagina when you have your period. They’re usually made of either silicone or rubber and you may wear them for up to 12 hours.

A menstrual cup is worn completely internally. The cup will create a slight seal stopping blood from leaking out or water leaking in. 

Moreover, menstrual cups have some advantages over tampons:

• Reusable: Menstrual cups can be rinsed off after they’re emptied and reused.
• Holds more blood: Menstrual cups often hold more than a tampon, so you can enjoy your swim for longer. Check the individual manufacturer’s packaging to learn more about how much a menstrual cup can hold.
• No strings: If you’re worried about tampon strings becoming visible, you
• Less chance of infection: While a tampon can absorb dirty water (hence the recommendation to change it after your dip), the menstrual cup will not.

Menstrual cups come in different shapes brand-to-brand, and every person will have a preference based on what feels comfortable to them - we all have our own unique anatomy! It can take a little bit of trial and error to get right, so familiarize yourself with your menstrual cup before you try swimming with it. 

Option 3: Leak Proof Period Swimwear

Period swimwear is a superb option for confidence in water on your period. It can be used on its own or as a backup to other products (like tampons or menstrual cups).

Knix period-proof swimwear is made to hold menstrual fluid and prevent leaks in the water. You can depend on it to hold 3 teaspoons (or 2 tampons worth) of menstrual blood. Or wear it as a backup with a menstrual cup or tampon while at the beach or by the pool. 

More than that: Leak proof swimwear isn’t just period-proof. It’s designed to catch all of life’s pesky leaks, including light bladder (urine) leaks. Period swimwear might seem impossible to conceive, so let’s look at some Frequently Asked Questions:

Knix Period Swimwear: Frequently Asked Questions

Does Period Swimwear Look Different?

Period swimwear comes in a number of different styles, just like regular swimwear. You can have single-piece suits and bikini bottoms. The big difference between regular swimwear is how the gusset is constructed. 

However, while the gusset might be thicker than a regular swimsuit, it won’t look bulky from the outside. Nobody will be able to tell the difference between a period swimsuit and a regular swimsuit and you won’t have a “wet diaper” feeling when you’re wearing one.

How Does Knix Period (Leak Proof) Swimwear Work?

The layers in the gusset of the underwear work to trap and absorb your period so it doesn’t leak in the water (or on land!) Our Swimwear features the same Patented Leakproof Technology as our Period Underwear with an additional thin layer of waterproof material for extra protection.

The inner layers absorb the blood and trap it, so there's no leakage when you swim. When it goes in the laundry with detergent, it releases through the top layer— leaving your swim fresh and clean for tomorrow's laps. Reminder: No bleach or softener, and lay flat to dry.

Is Period Proof Swimwear Completely "Period Proof"?

Period-proof swimwear is not completely period-proof, but that's only because no period product is. They all have their different absorbency rates and beyond that, leaks may occur. We want you to feel completely confident, so you might start trying our period swimwear on your lighter days, or as a backup to a menstrual cup or tampon until you feel confident enough to go solo.

What Happens When You Get In the Water? Will Blood Leak Out?

The layers in the underwear work to trap and absorb blood while you swim. We want you to feel 100% confident in your Period Swimwear, so if it is a heavy flow day, we suggest wearing tampons or menstrual cups with your suit for worry-free swim protection.

Can I Just Wear Period Underwear in the Pool Instead of Period Swimwear?

Period Swimwear works a lot like period underwear, it has one important difference: It has an extra thin layer of waterproof material for extra protection. This means once the period blood is absorbed, it is kept away from the pool or seawater. If you wore regular period underwear without that waterproof layer, the pool or seawater would cause the blood to release while you swim.

Will I Leave a Blood Trail in the Water?

It's a common misconception that your period flow stops altogether when you’re in water. Due to water pressure, your flow may lighten when you’re in the water. But if you laugh, cough, sneeze, or move around, a small amount of menses might come out while you swim.

Wearing a leakproof swimsuit will help absorb any menstrual blood. If it's a heavy day you may opt to use tampons or menstrual cups for additional protection while you swim.

Can I Wear Period Swimwear Even When I’m Not on My Period?

Yes! Our goal is to design your favorite swimwear, not just your favorite ‘period swimwear’. So, if you find yourself wearing our period swimwear when you’re not menstruating, that’s a win for us!

Shop Knix Period Swimwear here.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Some of us haven’t bought a new swimsuit in years, so we’re not in the habit of seeing ourselves in new swimsuit styles or knowing what’s right for our bodies now. But when it comes to sizing, there are some tips. Let’s explore...

Knix Swimwear Sizing

First, let’s get the product pitch out of the way ;)

Knix has recently launched a fantastic range of swimwear, and also period swimwear. You can find size charts specific to each suit on every product page. Here’s what they look like:

You can also book a Virtual Fitting. But regardless of what brand you’re shopping for, here’s some useful advice:

Tips For Swimsuit Sizing (No Matter What Brand)

So, no matter what brand you’re shopping from here are some general pointers:

Start With Your Regular Size

Swimsuits, like most garments with a lot of stretch, often look misleadingly small on the hanger. So don’t judge too much based on their appearance on the hanger. 

The best jumping-off point is the size you typically take. For swimsuits, this may be indicated as small/medium/large, etc., or in traditional sizes like size 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, etc.

While sizing is rarely standard across brands and most of us go up and down across brands, this is the best place to start...

Consult the Size Chart & Whip Out Your Tape Measure

To get a clearer understanding of the sizes, pull up the size charts on the website you’re on. Most websites will have a size chart linked in the product details of individual items.

Depending on the retailer, the size charts might include measurements for bust/underbust, waist, hips, and torso length. Measurements may be in inches or centimeters. 

To take accurate measurements, it’s best to use a fabric (seamstress) measurement tape and take the following measurements:

• Bust: To get this measurement, measure over the fullest part of your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Underbust: This measurement will especially matter for underwire swimsuits or bikini tops. To get this measurement, measure directly under your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Waist: This is the measurement around the narrowest part of your natural waistline.
• Hips: This is the measurement around the fullest part of your hip, before the thigh begins to narrow. 
• Torso length: Torso length is important for swimsuits. You get this measurement by taking a measurement from your shoulder to the crotch, at a measurement.

Compare the measurements you come up with with the size charge. Remember to read the size charts carefully to make sure you’re adhering to any particular measurement directions.

If You’re Between Two Bathing Suit Sizes, Go Small

Swimsuits usually have a lot of elastication and stretch over time, and when wet, so if you’re right between two sizes, you’re likely safe going small. 

That said, going for a smaller swimsuit size shouldn’t push you into an uncomfortable experience. So if you notice any uncomfortable compression or red marks on your skin, or find the suit difficult to get on and off, it’s likely you’ve gone too small.

Related: Where to buy plus size swimwear

Order Multiple Sizes (Checking Returns Policy)

Note: Different retailers will have different return policies (especially when items are on sale), so check that before trying this tip. Knix Swimwear is eligible for a return or exchange within 30 days of delivery and with the original sanitary strip and tags attached.

But assuming returns are easy, you might consider ordering multiple sizes (your size and the sizes up and down from it) so you can try them on in the comfort of your home. Once you’re confident you’ve found the right size, return the others.

Try Swimsuits at Home

Always try on your new swimsuit at home (even if you already tried it on in-store). There’s something about being at home, where you’re most comfortable, and trying on clothes that will give you a better sense of whether items fit correctly and are comfortable.

You’re familiar with the lighting and with your own mirrors. Plus, you’ll feel less rushed and even get a second opinion, if you want one. 

Two-Pieces Let You Pick Two Sizes

Two-pieces have the advantage of being sold as two separate parts, which means you can order a top and bottom in different sizes. If your body is two different sizes (e.g. you have a very full bust but narrow hips, or wide hips and a small chest), this may be an easier option than a one-piece which is designed for more uniform sizing.

Size Matters, But So Does Swimsuit Style

Getting the size right is an essential part of buying any garment. But when it comes to fit, style matters too. You might be wearing the right size in a swimsuit but not like it on your body, feel it cinches in all the wrong places or is generally not comfortable.

We all have unique bodies and we all want different things from our clothing, so a style you like on a website or hanger, might not feel great once you put it on. While we’re not here to say who (or what body type) should wear what style of swimsuit, here are some of the options:

Classic Leakproof One-Piece Swimsuit

If you love simplicity, a classic one-piece is the ultimate basic. Also known as a maillot swimsuit, this style is sleek and unadorned. It may (or may not) contain hidden support for your breasts. For some, the lack of adornment will make them feel more ‘exposed’ in this style. But if you’re a swimmer, this style will make sure nothing gets in your way.

A Plunge Neckline Swimsuit

A plunge neckline is almost universally flattering. Plunge necklines often feature wider shoulder straps, which will give you added support, while still being sexy. Check out our Deep V One Piece Swimsuit as an example of this style!

A Balcony-Style Swimsuit

If you like more structure and support, a balcony-style swimsuit offers a polished and sexy take on a classic swimsuit. Check out our Balcony Cup One Piece Swimsuit!

Swimsuits With Cut-Outs

Cut-outs are another way to soften a swimsuit. Peekaboo cuts at the front of back can give you a sexier look while still offering the coverage of a one-piece. If you’re worried about a one-piece looking old-fashioned, cut-outs are a great way to spice it up. Our Leakproof Wrap One Piece is a great option. 

Two-Piece Swimsuits

Two-piece swimsuits come in a huge variety of styles. 

You can have bottoms that are:

• Bikini shape
• Boyshorts
• High rise

And tops that include:

• Tank top (tankini)
• Pull-on bralette style
• Wired or underwired

Plus all kinds of design styles, colors, and embellishments!

It’s really a personal choice if you prefer a one-piece or two-piece swimsuit. But if you find it difficult to find a one-piece that fits you, the mix-and-match approach of a two-piece may work better for you.

Notes on Details and Fit

When it comes to swimsuits, the details count. Look for:

Adjustable Straps Will Help if Your Torso is Long or Short

If straps (either neck or shoulder) are adjustable, you’ll be able to better fit the swimsuit to your torso and to tighten it over time as it loses some of its elasticity. Related: How tight should a swimsuit be?

Wider Straps Will Give You More Support

Also, look for wide straps if you need a little more bust support. String or tie straps may dig into the skin and become uncomfortable if they’re supporting a larger chest.

Molded Cups Also Offer Support

Many swimsuits now offer “secret” support with built-in wireless bras and molded cups. These are great for keeping you in place and minimizing bounce and movement, while also giving you the silhouette you desire.

Remember, You Can Mix & Match Separate Bikini Sizes

Again, remember that with two-piece sets (or bikinis) you can choose a different top and bottom and mix and match. This means you can separately think about what’s flattering and comfortable on your bottom half, versus what’s supportive on your top. It also allows you to change your look with more combinations of styles and colors of pieces.

Finally, Don’t Forget: Start Shopping Early!

If you’re shopping for swimwear, get there early. At the height of the summer or during the winter travel season, you may find a lot of options have already sold out. It’s always good to have a great swimsuit handy, so start shopping early in the season and you’ll be all set for when those beach or pool days start!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Those differences can originate from:

• Regional naming conventions: For example, where I come from “jumpers” are what we call “sweaters”, “vests” are “tank tops”, and “waistcoats” are “vests”. 
• Various synonyms for the same item: For example, underwear can be called “undies”, “knickers”, “panties” and more.
• Various subcategories within a clothing category: For example a “bikini” is a type of swimwear, or “boyshort” is a style of underwear.

When you’re shopping online, these differences can become confusing. Some brands really double down on specific naming conventions and avoid others. As you compare across websites, you may struggle to find what’s called one thing on one site (e.g. swimwear) is called something else on another site (like “swimsuits.”)

Let’s try to help clear it up.

Swimwear is a Catch-All Category for Anything You Can Wear Swimming

Any item of clothing you can wear swimming is swimwear. This includes everything all genders wear in water. So all of the following are kinds of swimwear:

• Swimsuits
• Bikinis
• Trunks
• Speedos
• Burkini
• Rashguard
• Etc.

When you’re shopping online, you might find this category labeled “Beachwear” or simply “Swim” on the website navigation (Related articles: swimwear vs beachwear and swimwear vs wetsuit)

A Swimsuit Is a Type of Swimwear

A swimsuit usually describes a one-piece swimsuit. Some use “one-piece” as shorthand for a one-piece swimsuit. And in different regions, you might encounter different terms (listed above in the table). They include:

• Swimming Togs
• Swimming Costume
• Bathing Suit
• Bathers
• Cossie

Swimsuits also include more specific designs styles, like monokinis, burkinis, and rashguards.

Again, depending on the retailer site you’re on, sometimes these will be broken out as a sub-category and sometimes items will just be tucked in. It usually depends on how much merchandise they have and the demand the retailer encounters for specific types of designs.

If a swimsuit is the only kind of swimwear you normally wear, you might use ‘swimsuit’ and ‘swimwear’ interchangeably, since - for you - they’re one and the same.

A Two-Piece Is Another Kind of Swimwear

A two-piece (also commonly known as a bikini) is another kind of swimwear. It also includes tankinis. The word “bikini” is often used as the shorthand for all styles of two-piece, though a tankini is usually described separately (it too is a two-piece).

Some retailers also sell their two-pieces as separates rather than suits, so you might have them sell ‘bottoms’ and ‘tops’ rather than ‘bikini sets’.

Why It Gets Confusing...

Even though there’s nearly always a “proper” definition of things, in conversation and everyday use, language becomes much more elastic.

Most of us have come up with different shorthand ways of describing things. I’ve never worn a bikini so for me, swimwear is always a swimsuit and I use the two words interchangeably. 

We also sometimes use brand names as substitutes for product categories (“Speedo” is a good example here).

And, of course, those regional differences can come into play. When I first moved to Canada I called my swimsuit a “bathing costume” and people thought I was nuts.

The good news is, little misunderstandings can usually be easily cleared up…

Wondering what kind of swimwear might be right for you? Read on.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free, and in period swimwear.

But there’s good news: Bedding - especially if it’s white - is easy to clean and you have a good chance of removing those period stains from your sheets or bedding if you follow these steps.

7 Steps for Removing Blood Stains From Sheets

1. Act as Fast as You Can (Dried Blood Stains Are Harder to Treat)

Dried blood stains tend to set and are, therefore, harder to budge. So, the sooner you act the more successful you'll be at getting blood out of sheets. 

Now, we’re realists. We know that if you wake in the middle of the night and you’ve soaked through your pajamas and bedding, you may be too groggy from sleep to jump into Mary Poppins-like cleaning action. We’ve all been there: You’ll probably change your bottoms and crawl back into bed (I’ve done the thing where I just sleep on the other side.)

However, if at all possible, do pull that bedding off and get it into some water. Ideally, you’d follow the next steps. But again, we’re realists: Leaving the fresh blood stain soaking in water in the bathtub is much better than nothing. 

2. Rinse the Stained Area Under Cold Running Water

Before you follow any steps to soak or treat the stain, remove as much of the excess blood as you can with simple cold running water. You can add a little gentle agitation here (no violent scrubbing, just gently rub the fabric together or use a clean, soft toothbrush to loosen the stain.)

Keep doing this until the water runs clear. Hopefully, you’re surprised by how much blood comes loose and washes away with the simple pressure of running water. Odds are there will be some stain remaining. If so, keep going through the following steps to remove blood stains

3. Soak the Remaining Blood Stain in Cold Water

Bed linens, duvet covers and bed sheets can be quite large. But you don’t need to soak the entire item—you can just focus on the stained area. The goal here is to get the stain thoroughly wet. Fill a basin or sink with cold water and get the affected part of the blood-stained sheets in there for a good soak. We recommend leaving it for a while. (Time works wonders on stains.)

A note about warm or hot water: You might be tempted to think hot water has more clout when it comes to blood stain removal. The opposite is true. Heat can cause a stain to ‘set’ rather than loosen it. (For the same reason, we don’t want to put a stained garment anywhere near a dryer until the stain is removed.)

4. Stain Removal Products to Help Get Blood Out of Sheets

Okay, it’s time to get some cleaning products to help get blood out of sheets. If you’ve got a go-to stain removal product, go for that. If all you’ve got is liquid laundry detergent, that will do. You can even use dish soap (or salt and dish soap) in a pinch.

A gentle toothbrush is your other best friend to help remove blood stains. It allows you to spot-treat blood stains and add some gentle abrasion where it’s needed. Put some liquid laundry detergent or stain remover in a small saucer or bowl and dip the toothbrush into it. Gently scrub the blood stains with the toothbrush. Rinse regularly under cold water and, hopefully, you will see the stain lifting fully out.

Some stain removal products work in dissolved water (e.g. oxygenated stain removal products), so if that’s the case, follow those instructions to get blood out of clothes or other items.

There are lots of stain removal products and hacks involving household products. Here are some of the more popular ones you might consider for removing blood stains:

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a common antiseptic, so you might find you have some in your medicine cabinet. But you may not know that hydrogen peroxide is also very effective for stain removal. To use, simply pour hydrogen peroxide directly on the stain.

It’s worth noting that hydrogen peroxide is bleach so should only be used on light-colored bed linens. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide on any dark color fabrics.

Oxygenated Stain Removal Products

Oxygenated stain removal products work by using oxygen to break down and lift stains from fabric fibers. These products typically contain hydrogen peroxide or a similar oxygen-based bleaching agent. Oxi-Clean is a popular brand in this category (many products in this category will have some variety of ‘oxi/oxy’ in their name.)

Enzyme Stain Removers

Enzymes are natural proteins that break down specific types of stains, such as protein-based stains like blood stains or grass stains. Popular brands like Tide use enzymes and other ingredients (including surfactants and polymers) to remove blood stains from clothing. This is why these products can be used on a wide variety of stain types, from oils to blood, grass, and food.

Lemon Juice 

For those who prefer a more natural approach, lemon juice can also be great at removing stains, and by cutting the lemon in half, you also have an easy application tool. But citric acid (the thing that makes lemons so great for removing stains) is an acid and can be harsh on colors. You may find it has the same effect as bleach on darker colors.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is similarly a good household product for so many chores, including treating set-in blood stains. As it’s an acid, you might want to test colorfastness on darker or patterned bedding.

Baking Soda

You can make a paste from cold water and baking soda (yes, the kind you put in your fridge or freezer to deodorize it). Apply the baking soda paste to the stained area and work it gently in with a toothbrush. Rinse and repeat until the stain is gone.

Aspirin

Follow the same method as with the baking soda: Just crush a few aspirins and mix with water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain and you should see it start to budge. 

5. Give Stain Removal Products Time to Work on Stained Sheets

Let the stain remover or detergent sit on the stain for a bit, or leave your bed linens to soak in cold water with the stain remover or detergent. It’s important to not let stubborn stains start to dry. But you can step away for a while and let the detergent or stain remover work its magic. 

When you come back, give the stain a gentle rub and that should get any residual blood out. of clothes. Give the sheet a good rinse with water. If the stain is still not fully gone, repeat Step 4 until it’s fully gone.

6. Machine Wash Your Bedding as Usual

Once the stain is gone, wash your bedding to make sure there aren’t any residual blood stains or stain removal products. Follow the usual washing instructions. When the bed linens come out of the washing machine, double-check the stained area to make sure no trace of blood remains. If there is still staining, go back to steps 4 & 5 again. 

DO NOT put the items in a dryer if there is still staining. This will just lock the stain in making it so much harder to address later. We know you’re tired, but resist the temptation to give up—you’ve already come so far!

7. Air Dry or Machine Dry Your Bedding

It’s ideal to hang your sheets on a line to let them air dry. Air drying prolongs the life span of bedding and also gives you that perfect, fresh air smell. It also helps keep your bedding smooth so you don’t have to iron your sheets (haha not likely)

However, many of us don’t have an outdoor space for this and we are realists! If you do machine dry your bedding, try to do it at a cooler temperature. Ideally, you pull out the bedding before it’s completely dry and let it finish drying by air. But let’s be honest: This doesn’t always happen.

Avoid Night (and Daytime) Leaks with Leakproof Underwear

For many of us, leaks are part and parcel of the period experience. Ruined underwear, soiled sheets, and even your favorite jeans can be ruined by the experience. Many of us live in fear of it happening in public. But, did you know there’s a better way?

Period Underwear is the perfect protection during your period, either as full protection or as a backup to disposable products, like tampons. Knix period underwear come in your favorite underwear styles. They are absorbent and  quick-drying. Buh-bye panty-liners and unnecessary waste. 

Best Period Panties for Sleeping: The Leakproof Dream Short

The Dream Short is a super-comfy sleep bottom with built-in coverage featuring patented leakproof technology.

How it fits: 

The Dream Short is designed to comfortably hug your body and stay in place overnight, you can wear it as a pajama bottom or underneath your regular sleep get-up.

What reviewers say:

“One heavy night per month... I never slept well because I was worried about leaking through to the sheets and I slept on a towel that night. These dream shorts are awesome and alleviated all of my concerns. I slept GREAT and these shorts did their job!”

“I bought two pairs of the dream shorts to wear at night while on my period. It was SO nice going to bed not worrying about what position I was laying in or if I would wake up to a leak on the sheets! I’ve worn them now through two periods and I couldn’t be happier that I finally decided to try them.”

Size options:

XS to XXXXL, and everything in between.

Why Do Period Leaks *Always* Happen at Night Anyway?

If you have a heavy menstrual flow, leaks can happen at any time (day or night.) But perhaps they’re more common in the nighttime. This can be for several reasons:

• Heavy menstrual flow: Period flow that exceeds the absorbency level of your product
• Incorrect use of menstrual products: A tampon wrongly inserted or a pad that is applied to the wrong part of your underwear.
• Choosing the wrong menstrual product: For example, not enough absorbency or just not a great fit for your body. Menstrual cups come in different shapes and it may take some experimentation to find the one that’s right for your unique shape.
• Changes in your menstrual cycle: Irregular periods or a change in flow can catch you off guard)
• Movement or sleeping position: Depending on the product you choose, menstrual products may move around if you’re a restless sleeper. Certain sleeping positions may cause pressure on your menstrual product, or it may shift or leak during the night.

What if Period Blood Stains Soak Through to Your Duvet or Mattress?

If your period blood has stained through to your duvet or mattress, you have a bigger challenge on your hands and it’s worth seeking expert advice from an upholstery cleaner or dry cleaner.

As with the above advice, you can take some steps to ‘spot treat’ the stain at home. However, instead of completely soaking the stain you want to take the approach of blotting away as much of the blood as possible. Too much moisture will make a mess and spread the stain. So work in small areas and patiently blot the stain with kitchen towels or a clean cloth. 

Your mattress will need to be completely dry before you can dress the bed, so many people just let the remaining stain dry and suck up having the stain there permanently.

In the case of a duvet, you can try to spot-treat the duvet following the instructions above. However, many duvets come with dry clean-only instructions, so you might want to seek advice from your dry cleaner about how to approach the stain.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

However, that doesn’t mean addressing dried period blood stains is impossible. Just be prepared to be patient and know that despite your best effort you may not be successful all the time. A lot will depend on the item/material. White fabrics may show more, but you can also tackle them with the toughest stain-removal products (i.e. bleach.) 

Whatever you’re working with, follow these steps for removing blood stains:

Step 1: Soak the Garment / Item (or Blood Stain Area) in Cold Water

You want to ‘wake up’ the stain and the best way to do this is by giving the garment a good soak. Fill a basin or sink with cold water (not hot water) and submerge the garment (or at least the stained area.) Leave it a few hours, you want to let the fabric become fully saturated. 

If the stain is fresher you may notice some of the blood seeps into the water. If this is the case, switch and run the stained area under cold running water until the water comes clear, and then continue to soak for the remaining stain.

Step 2: Treat Blood Stains With Stain Remover or Liquid Laundry Detergent

Now that the fabric is completely soaked, it’s time to introduce a little muscle in the form of stain remover or liquid laundry detergent. Ideally, choose a specialty stain remover that is suitable for the fabric type and color. Remember that stain removal products that contain bleach may lead to the discoloration of darker fabrics.

Give the garment a little wring out (or pat it between two clean towels). Don’t let it dry too much but make sure there isn’t too much excess water or the next part could get messy. Once you have it still-wet but not dripping, apply the stain remover. You want to get it deep into the fibers of the fabric. You can use your nails to gently work it in (be careful not to pull at the fibers as you could cause small tears), but a soft, old toothbrush also works remarkably well.

Some stain removal products work in dissolved water (e.g. oxygenated stain removal products), so if that’s the case, follow those instructions to get blood out of clothes or other items.

There are lots of stain removal products and hacks involving household products. Here are some of the more popular ones you might consider for removing blood stains:

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a common antiseptic, so you might find you have some in your medicine cabinet. But you may not know that hydrogen peroxide is also very effective for stain removal.

However, hydrogen peroxide is a bleach so should only be used on light-colored items. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide on any dark color fabrics.

Oxygenated Stain Removal Products

Oxygenated stain removal products work by using oxygen to break down and lift stains from fabric fibers. These products typically contain hydrogen peroxide or a similar oxygen-based bleaching agent. Oxi-Clean is a popular brand in this category (many products in this category will have some variety of ‘oxi/oxy’ in their name.)

Enzyme Stain Removers

Enzymes are natural proteins that break down specific types of stains, such as protein-based stains like blood stains or grass stains. Popular brands like Tide use enzymes and other ingredients (including surfactants and polymers) to remove blood stains from clothing. This is why these products can be used on a wide variety of stain types, from oils to blood, grass, and food.

Lemon Juice 

For those who prefer a more natural approach, lemon juice can also be great at removing stains, and by cutting the lemon in half, you also have an easy application tool. But citric acid (the thing that makes lemons so great for removing stains) is an acid and can be harsh on colors. You may find it has the same effect as bleach on darker colors.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is similarly a good household product for so many chores, including treating set-in blood stains. But because it is also acid, we don't recommend it for blood stain removal in dark garments, including denim.

Baking Soda

You can make a paste from cold water and baking soda (yes, the kind you put in your fridge or freezer to deodorize it). Apply the paste to the stained area and work it gently in with a toothbrush. Rinse and repeat until the stain is gone.

Aspirin

Follow the same method as with the baking soda: Just crush a few aspirins and mix with water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain and you should see it start to budge. 

Step 3: Wait (Be Patient!)

Stain removal products need time to work and may even need longer on older dried-in blood stains. Follow the product instructions and don’t rush the job. You may even want to err on the side of more time rather than less.

We do not recommend combining any of the above ingredients in an attempt to have a double or triple-whammy effect on the blood stain. Indeed, the ingredients might react with each other and be less effective (or you might end up with a little chemical reaction on your hands.)

However, if you’ve tried one method and had no success, you can switch to a different one. Just make sure to rinse the item well first to remove any residue from the first stain removal product before you add another. But before you do this, make sure you’ve given the product enough time to work. Don’t be impatient! 

Step 4: Rinse the Blood Stains & Product Residue With Cold Water

After you’ve let the stain removal product get to work for some time, return and give a little brush with your trusty wet toothbrush. Hopefully, you notice that the blood stain has started to budget and lift. If it’s the same, give it more time.

If the dried blood stains are starting to lift gradually add a little more cold water and gently continue to work the stain remover into the fabric. If you think the period stain is completely gone, rinse the item well under running cold water until you see the stain fully gone (and there’s no residue left from the stain remover.)

Step 5: Repeat, if Necessary

If the stain has started to budge but is not fully gone, you can go back and repeat Step 2. Remember that it simply may not be possible for the stain to ever be fully gone. But if you feel like you’re having luck, you can push again to see if you can get rid of that last bit.

Step 6: Wash & Dry as Usual

Once the blood stains are gone, you should wash your garment following its regular cleaning instructions (hand wash or machine wash) and your regular liquid laundry detergent. If possible choose a cold water cycle or delicate cycle instead of hot water. 

When the item comes out of the washing machine, double-check the stained area to make sure no trace of blood remains.

If there are still blood stains, it’s up to you: Either go back to Step 2 and start over again, or give up and consider this a hard-fought battle. We’ve all been there… But do pause here to make sure you’re sure because once you dry the item there’s no going back…

Whether it’s been a victory or a defeat, follow the usual instructions for drying. Air drying is gentler for delicates, but bedding and towels tend to do well in the dryer. A cooler temperature is always gentler on fabrics.

Why Does Period Blood Leak?

Period leaks happen to many of us, for several reasons. It's important to find the right menstrual product for your body and flow and to use it correctly to minimize the risk of leaks. Here are some of the common reasons for leaks:

• Heavy menstrual flow: Period flow that exceeds the absorbency level of your product
• Incorrect use of menstrual products: A tampon wrongly inserted or a pad that is applied to the wrong part of your underwear.
• Choosing the wrong menstrual product: For example, not enough absorbency or just not a great fit for your body. Menstrual cups come in different shapes and it may take some experimentation to find the one that’s right for your unique shape.
• Changes in your menstrual cycle: Irregular periods or a change in flow can catch you off guard)
• Movement or exercise: Depending on the product you choose, menstrual products may move around if you’re active
• Sleeping position: Certain sleeping positions may cause pressure on your menstrual product, or it may shift or leak during the night.

Ideally, you can treat fresh blood stains instead of waiting for them to become dried blood stains. Click here to read advice on that.

How to Avoid Period Leaks in the Future: Period Underwear

As long as there are periods, there’ll also be leaks. And while it's great to know how to tackle blood stains whether they’re on your clothing, underwear, or even bedding and towels, it’s even better to avoid them altogether

Introducing Period Underwear! Period Underwear is absorbent and quick-drying. Buh-bye panty-liners and unnecessary waste - they are great protection during your period, either as full protection or as a backup to disposable products, like tampons. Knix period underwear also comes in all your favorite panty styles.

When You Should See a Doctor About Heavy Menstrual Flow

While leaks are normal and not considered medically concerning, there may be times when they’re a sign of unusually heavy flow. Leaks alone are not a reason to see your doctor, but if you think any of the following apply to you, it might be worth booking a checkup:

• Heavy bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding, which is defined as soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several hours in a row.
• Bleeding accompanied by clotting: If you pass blood clots that are larger than a quarter or if you're passing blood clots frequently.
• Irregular periods: If you're experiencing irregular periods, meaning your periods come at different times or are much shorter or longer than usual.
• Pain or discomfort: If you're experiencing pain or discomfort during your period, such as cramping or pelvic pain.

For the most part, leaks are not a concern. If you’re uncertain whether the above applies to you, try using a period app or diary to keep track of your period timing, heaviness (number of products used), clots, and other symptoms. This will make it easier to talk to your doctor if you do have concerns.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Never fear: We’re here to help. We’ll walk you through the steps to wash those blood stains right away. The key is: The faster you act the better.

But we’ll even go a step further: Help you avoid the problem ever again. With leakproof underwear.

7 Steps for Getting Period Stains Out of Your Jeans

Whether you rock skinny jeans, boyfriend style, bootleg, low-rise, or high-rise… we all know just how hard it is to find “the one” when it comes to jeans. So you want to hang onto the good ones for as long as they’ll last. Then along comes your period with different plans.

Okay, you’ve soaked your tampon or pad and the blood has soaked through your underwear and stained your jeans. What to do? Follow these steps to remove blood stains.

Step 1: Act Fast: Fresh Blood Stains Are Easier to Remove

You probably want to change out of those jeans fast, but don’t just toss them onto the laundry pile on your exercise bike (yes, we know that’s what exercise bikes are for.) You want to get them soaking or under running water as soon as you can. 

A fresh blood stain is easier to clean than dried blood stains. If at all possible, get to the blood stain while it’s still wet; a dried-in blood stain is tougher to remove.

Step 2: Keep the Water Cold to Remove Blood Stains

If your instinct is telling you that hot or warm water will be tougher on those blood stains, your instinct is WRONG. Hot water can cause stains to get set into fabrics, which will make them harder to get rid of. Cold water is key to removing blood stains. 

You can soak the jeans in a sink of cold water. But it may be more effective to hold the blood stain area of the jeans under cold running water. A little water pressure will help lift a lot of the blood stain out of your jeans.

Fingers cross, this alone does the job of getting as much blood out as possible. But if you’ve still got staining keep following the next steps for removing blood stains!

Step 3: If the Blood Stain Remains, Add Agitation

If the blood stain is fresh and still wet, running water should do the trick. But if it has started to dry, you may have to rub the jeans a little. Denim is a tough fabric, but jeans are often prone to becoming thinner around the crotch and inner thighs, so be gentle with any rubbing. 

Rather than rubbing the denim against itself, try gently using your nails, or an old soft toothbrush to gently rub the area where the blood stain is on your underwear. 

Still, got a blood stain? Keep following the steps...

Step 4: Use Stain Remover or Detergent + a Gentle Toothbrush

Okay, it’s time to get some cleaning products to help get blood out of clothes. At this point, it’s whatever you’ve got. If you’ve got a stain removal product, go for that. If all you’ve got is liquid laundry detergent, that will do.

Don’t use any products with bleach or hydrogen peroxide in them (unless your jeans are white jeans) as they could fade the wash and you don’t want a bleached spot in your crotch any more than blood stains.

A gentle toothbrush is your best friend to get blood out of clothes. It allows you to spot-treat the stain and add some gentle abrasion where it’s needed. Put some liquid laundry detergent or stain remover in a small saucer or bowl and dip the toothbrush into it. Gently scrub the blood stains with the toothbrush. Rinse regularly under cold water and, hopefully, you will see the stain lifting fully out.

Step 5: Let the Stained Fabric Soak for a Bit

If the stain is particularly stubborn, or your arm is just getting tired from toothbrushing your jeans, you can let the stain remover or detergent sit on the stain for a bit, or leave the jeans to soak in cold water with the stain remover or detergent.

It’s important to not let stubborn stains start to dry. But you can step away for a while and let the detergent or stain remover work its magic. Watch something on Netflix, make some food, and kill some time.

When you come back, give the stain a gentle rub and that should get any residual blood out. of clothes. Give the garment a good rinse with water. If the stain is still not fully gone, repeat Steps 4 and 5 until it’s fully gone.

Step 6: Machine Wash as Usual

Once the stain is gone, you should wash your jeans to make sure there isn’t any residual blood or laundry detergent in the denim. It’s best to turn your jeans inside out before you put them in the wash. A cold wash is ideal. You can wash jeans with other similar-weight and color items (don’t want to waste a laundry day!)

When the jeans come out of the washing machine, double-check the stained area to make sure no trace of blood remains. If there is still staining, go back to steps 4 & 5 again. DO NOT put the jeans in a dryer if there is still staining. This will just lock the stain in making it so much harder to address later. We know you’re tired, but resist the temptation to give up—you’ve already come so far!

Step 7: Air Dry or Machine Dry

We advise letting jeans air dry. You can hang them on a skirt or trouser hanger and they should dry overnight. Air drying is gentler and will preserve the denim longer. And if there is lycra (or stretch) in the jeans, air drying will preserve that stretch for longer

Of course, denim can be machine-dried too and some people prefer this as it slightly shrinks jeans that may have become baggy over time. Try to select a cooler temperature so the dryer isn’t too harsh on the cotton in your jeans.

Never Have Blood-Stained Jeans Again! Discover Period Underwear

Periods happen. And while it's great to know how to tackle blood stains whether they’re on your favorite denim, underwear, or even bedding and towels, it’s even better to avoid them altogether

If you're sick of ruining your favorite garments and bedding, check out our Period Underwear. 

Period Underwear is absorbent and quick-drying. Buh-bye panty-liners and unnecessary waste - they are the perfect protection during your period, either as full protection or as a backup to disposable products, like tampons. 

How to Treat Blood Stains That Are Already Dry?

We’re not going to lie: Older, dried-in stains are more challenging to get rid of completely. It’s going to be even more challenging if the garment has been through the laundry (especially a hot water cycle or drying machine) a few times and the stain has set in.

You can try to follow us through the same steps for older period stains. But you might want to allow even more time. Start by soaking your jeans in cold water for a few hours (even overnight) to thoroughly soak the stain.

Then use any of the treatments listed above (or some of the less conventional ideas listed below) to see if it will shift that stain. There are no guarantees when you're working with older stains. A lot will depend on the fabric. But if you have a favorite pair of jeans, it’s worth a try.

Again, remember: Cold water is your friend. Don't be tempted by hot water or aggressive washing cycles. You might have to repeat steps and it might take more than one round of washing to completely remove an older stain.

Less Conventional Ways to Remove Blood Stains

There are lots of weird and seemingly wacky tips out there for removing stains. Usually, we would say stick to the steps outlined above. But sometimes you have to work with what you’ve got at hand. Here are some less conventional household items and ingredients that can help with stain removal

Pro-tip: Always test your denim to make sure these substances are colorfast.

Salt

Salt is another great household stain-buster that will help get period blood out of your underwear. You can quite literally use the salt you sprinkle on your dinner! Just mix one part salt and two parts cold water. Gently apply the salt mix to the stain and watch it disappear... Rinse the fabric well under cold running water when you're done. Then follow Steps 6 & 7 above.

Baking Soda

Similar to salt, you can also make a paste from cold water and baking soda (yes, the kind you put in your fridge or freezer to deodorize it). Mix water and baking soda to form a paste and apply to the stained area. Again, always rinse well once you're done. Repeat if you don't get it all! Rinse the fabric well under cold running water when you're done. Then follow Steps 6 & 7 above.

Aspirin

Follow the same method as with the salt or baking soda: Just crush a few aspirins and mix with water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain and you should see it start to budge. Rinse the fabric well under cold running water when you're done. Then follow Steps 6 & 7 above.

Unseasoned Meat Tenderizer

Okay, this one is truly out there. Meat tenderizer is a blend of salt and bromelain used to tenderize... you guessed it... meat. That combo of ingredients also makes it a great stain remover. Use the same method as before: Form a paste out of the tenderizer and water. Watch the meat tenderizer do its job. Rinse with plenty of cold water. Then follow Steps 6 & 7 above.

Things to Avoid When Getting Blood Stains Out of Your Jeans

Other household ingredients may be great for getting blood stains out of sheets or towels (as long as they’re white) but they could only make a worse mess of your favorite jeans. It’s best to avoid the following

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a common antiseptic, so you might find you have some in your medicine cabinet. But you may not know that hydrogen peroxide is also very effective for stain removal.

However, hydrogen peroxide is a bleach so should only be used on light-colored panties. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide on any dark color fabrics.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice can also be great at removing stains and by cutting the lemon in half, you also have an easy application tool. But citric acid (the thing that makes lemons so great for removing stains) is an acid and can be harsh on colors. You may find it has the same effect as a bleach on darker colors.

White vinegar is similarly a good household product for so many chores, including treating set-in blood stains. But because it is also an acid, we don't recommend it for blood stain removal in jeans.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Let’s face it, though. Traditionally, when you think of a “skort,” you probably think mostly about tennis or golf. But does a skort have to be limited only to sportswear? We think not!

Let’s take a whack at why this piece could be worn just as easily on the course (or court) as off…

Nix the Short Skirt: Wear Skorts Instead for Comfort and Style 

Think of the possibilities! While skorts are typically seen as more (functionally) athletic than skirts, the category has broadened quite a bit in recent years. Golf skorts designed with beautiful patterns, for example, can now transition pretty easily into an evening look. Who would’ve thought a golf skort could actually be a fashion trend? 

Even in a workplace setting, your skort could blend right in. In this circumstance, you’d probably want to go with the slightly longer version of your favorite skort. And since the shorts underneath add that extra bit of modesty, you can feel both pretty and professional for the day ahead. Very appropriate as a possible work option (depending on your dress code.)

Despite your style preferences or situation, there’s probably a skort out there for you. The options are nearly endless. Here are some other benefits a skort can provide over a skirt. 

Did Somebody Say Chafe Protection?

You heard right! Picture a hot summer’s night. You're ready to grab a nosh with a friend. Fortunately, you can rest assured that when you grab your bike and pedal away, you'll arrive cool, calm and collected. Plus, you'll look pretty hip while you're at it. Not bad! Since athleisure has become trendier these days, this is another great example of function meeting fashion.

The beauty of a skort is that it has a material divider between the legs, whereas a skirt does not. But don’t be too fussed about the material being exposed from underneath - it’s often the same length, or even a little shorter, than the length of the skirt over top of it. This actually gives the skort an overall “skirt-like” effect. And this hybrid feature allows for some secret security while still feeling cute. Talk about a win-win.

This is also where the importance of fabric comes into play. Both skirts and skorts are made from various materials and blends, so you’ll want to find the one that works best for you depending on when and where you’re wearing it. If you’re hoping to wick away sweat and deter chafing, a nylon, polyamide or polyester skort will do the trick better than its cotton counterpart (which may stick to your skin more.)  

Whether You’re Playing Tennis, Biking or Running - A Skort Is Great for You 

A handy starting point for whether to choose a skort or a skirt is to consider your activities for the day ahead. Going out for a bike ride? Playing golf? Perhaps hitting the trails for a hike and some forest bathing? Whatever you’re keen on doing today, a skort might prove to be the right move. 

With all the physical activities out there, it’s nice to know you can look and feel good doing them. A skort’s unique design can serve you well in so many circumstances, so you’ll find it really has your back time and time again.

Let’s Break It Down - What to Consider When Choosing a Skort:     

So you’ve decided you’re ready to embrace some skort wearing in your life. But how do you choose that perfect skort? As described, there are a few key factors you’ll want to consider when selecting the right skort for you:

Length:

The length of your skort goes hand in hand with the style you're shooting for. If you want your skort to look and feel right in a more professional or (dare I say) more "formal" setting, for instance, a slightly longer length option may be the way to go. Note: Skorts don't come in midi or maxi lengths per se, but there are still varying degrees of shortness to be reckoned with (ranging between mid thigh to lower thigh.)

Length is also important when it comes to function. If you're playing a rigorous game of badminton or even pickleball, the less material you have flailing about or getting in your way, the more benefit it may have to you. In these cases, you may go for one of the shorter versions. This option may also come into play more or less depending on your height.

Material:

When it comes to physical activity, the more you're sweating, the more the fabric matters. A poly-blend or polyester material will be helpful if you want a bit more control over the sweat factor. Because no matter what, folks, you're going to sweat - but it's great to know that your sweat isn't going to itch and irritate your skin from all the rubbing about and build up.

It's possible, however, that you're simply looking for an ultra soft and comfortable skort that'll serve you less so for sports, activities or super humid days, and more so for walks on milder days or just hanging with friends. Cotton skorts are absolutely a choice on the market.

Occasion: 

This is the easy part, since the skort is such a versatile option. Present day skorts are really quite appropriate for many more occasions than they used to be. Whether it's tennis attire you're after, or perhaps less of a sporty look, like a work day or a meal out, the skort will be a steadfast friend.

Other Tips:

When choosing the right skort for you, you may also want to mull over a few other things:

Color:

As most of us know, when you take to the tennis courts, often the expectation is that your tennis get up is white (i.e. tennis skorts, skirts, shoes etc.)

In most other circumstances, however, the color choice is really up to you! How fun. There are tons of skorts out there that come in various solid colors, patterns and designs, so the world is your oyster. If you're just entering the world of skorts now and want to ease into your skort collection with simplicity, we might suggest you start off with a more solid option.

Size:

This one's a bit of a no-brainer. But a good piece of advice for buying any new garment is - always try it on first before you commit. Each of our bodies is beautifully unique, so it's best to find the perfect size for your body type. Not too big, not too snug - but just right. (Goldilocks gets it.)

Cut:

When it comes to both skorts and skirts, there are a few different cuts available, and some may speak to you more than others. Whether it's a-line, straight cut or asymmetrical, as always consider the context or activity, and we're certain you'll land on the right choice.

Want to Transition From Day to Night? Enter the Skort 

Ah, fashion. It excites us as much as it confounds us. And when trying to blend fashion with function, sometimes it can feel tricky. But don’t let the idea of a skort confuse you. If anything, it might make your morning decision making process go a heck of a lot faster.

If you’ve got a day of work ahead, thinking about a light lunchtime jog, and maybe even meeting up with a friend or two that very same evening - cue: the skort. No need to change clothes and go - you can just go!

Check out our skorts selection here.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

While we don’t always want to pre-plan each outfit we’re going to wear the night before, it can be helpful to have a sense of what pieces work well together. And when it comes to athletic skorts, it’s key to know not only what pairs well with them, but on what occasions you could wear them (*by the way, it’s more than you might think!)

But what about that trusty tennis skirt—isn’t it basically the same thing? Can’t you just default to wearing one of those? While they do share some similarities, there are some very notable differences between tennis skirts and skorts. And you may actually find athletic skorts are far more versatile in the end, so they might be an easier choice. We’ll jump into those details below!    

Athletic Skort or Tennis Skirt: What’s the Difference?

Athletic skorts and tennis skirts can both serve a purpose in your wardrobe. But think of them as sisters instead of identical twins. 

An athletic skort has built-in shorts underneath the overlay material (the skirt part.) The shorts are form-fitting and often have a soft, stretchy material to them. Typically, these built-in shorts are the same color as the skirt, so they blend in quite seamlessly underneath. Often, no one even knows they're there but you. 

A tennis skirt, on the other hand, is about as breezy as they come. And that may be nice for some circumstances. But I personally wouldn’t want my skirt flipping over and exposing my undergarments each time I bend over to grab a tennis ball, tie my shoe, or pick up dropped keys. A tennis skirt makes you think twice about those movements, no doubt. 

The beauty of the skort, however, is that even when this does happen, you’ve got full-blown, built-in coverage and protection every time. No mortifying moments here!  

Hitting the Tennis Court? Swap That Skirt for a Skort! 

We get it—you’ve grown accustomed to wearing a tennis skirt to the courts and not really dithering about it. But a skort is truly just a leveled-up tennis skirt, after all. Having that under armor as part of the package will ultimately make your game feel a whole lot better. (A skort can’t guarantee extra points, of course, but it can score you extra comfort and protection!) 

The shorts underneath help prevent chafing on those hot days during a sweaty match, which is a total life-saver. In fact, most skorts have essential wick-away fabric that targets this exact situation. Imagine they also had period leak protection? You’re in luck, actually, because we thought of that, too. Take a look at our LeakStrong Leakproof Skort—they’ll tick all of your boxes.  

But a tennis court is definitely not the only place for a skort. And that regulation “tennis whites only” polo shirt is far from the only appropriate pairing out there. Remember when we mentioned how versatile skorts can be? Read on to find out more.

3 Other Ways to Style Athletic Skorts–And When to Wear Them

So skorts are primo for a tennis game. This we know. But what about other spaces and places? Let’s solve this whole “how to style athletic skort” situation once and for all. Here are three other ways (and circumstances) you can wear a skort. 

Casual Events

This one sounds pretty intuitive, since skorts tend to lean towards a casual feel, but we’ll dig into the fun of it anyway. Regardless of whether you’re going for a walk in the park with a friend, or out for a hang with the gals at a local cafe, a skort is your (other) companion.  

Whether you’re feeling a plain black t-shirt paired with a funky, floral skort (yes, even those exist now!) or perhaps a graphic tee tucked into a more basic, solid colored number, the world is your oyster when it comes to your skort vibe of the day. With all the fun prints and colors available in the skorts world now, not to mention those steadfast solids we all love, the options are endless.   

Transitioning from day to night is also a total cinch with a skort. Think of the “elevated casual” potential when you simply add a necklace or a hip boot to your day-to-night skort get up.   

Work (*Think: Paired With a Collared Shirt or Blouse)

Athletic skorts have evolved so much over time. In recent years, skorts have even started cropping up in various lengths, which gives you tons of options.

Depending on your work setting and dress code, you may even be able to get away with pairing your favorite medium length or long black skort (as an example) with your favorite collared shirt or blouse. Sounds pretty work appropriate to me! You’ll blend right in, and no one will even suspect there are shorts hidden underneath. Add some pretty stud earrings to that outfit and you’re bound to look both professional and fashionable. How very put together!

If you’re employed at a more casual workplace, you may have more leeway with length. Besides, who says you can’t still look sharp if it’s short? With the right pairing, you could definitely make it work. Pairing a skort with a sweater vest, for example, allows for more of a preppy look while giving that shorter skort a polished feel.

In the Name of Modesty

Skorts can be super chic and feminine while still giving you that modest overall feeling. It’s one of the many things we love about them. It’s great to feel cute while also feeling comfortable and protected from all angels. 

But it’s totally okay if crop tops and mini skirts are more of your jam. We all have the right to make our own fashion rules, after all! For those of us who may prefer more of a modest aesthetic, however, skorts are the perfect go-to. Because even in the shortest skort length out there, you’re basically in the clear anytime, anywhere—yes, even on a rollercoaster in extreme winds.   

Final Tip (*For Athletic Skorts and Tennis Skirts Alike):

When shopping around for any garment, you’ll want to take into account the size and fit factor before making that final commitment. Our best advice? Always try things on to be sure. 

Sometimes sizing can change dramatically from brand to brand, or a fit description can be a little off from reality. The key is to make sure your skorts, and your skirts, fit comfortably at the waist or hips (depending on where you want them to rest) without being too loose, or squeezing too tightly. 

Our LeakStrong Leakproof Skort comes in various sizes to fit all body shapes and types, so we’re quite sure you’ll find the perfect fit for you. Happy browsing! 

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

It may seem worrisome to throw blood-soaked underwear in the laundry with other garments. Or you might wonder if they will get the thorough clean they need. Are there specialty care instructions to ensure they maintain their absorbency?

These are all valid questions, but to give you the tl;dr, it’s not really that complicated. With most period underwear, you can machine wash them on cold and lay them flat to dry. So, no big deal. But let’s look at the question in more detail.

What Is Period Underwear

Let’s give a quick explanation of period underwear before we jump into how to care for them. Period underwear is different from regular underwear as it’s designed to absorb menstrual blood (or urine if worn as incontinence underwear.) 

Some women rely on period underwear as their only menstrual product. Others wear period underwear as a backup to traditional disposable products (e.g., tampons) to prevent leaks.

Either way, the point is that period underwear is designed to absorb blood. Indeed, some styles can absorb up to 8 tsp (or 8 tampons worth) of blood. 

Knix Period Underwear: Our Care Instructions

If you’re a Knix customer (or thinking of trying our period underwear), the care instructions couldn’t be simpler:

• Machine wash cold with mild detergent
• Do not bleach
• Lay flat to dry

Couldn’t be simpler, right? But we get it: You probably have more questions about how to wash period underwear. So read on!

Timing Is Key: Don’t Let Your Period Underwear Sit in a Hamper

While our care instructions don’t specify the window of time you need to wash your underwear; generally, we would avoid letting your used period underwear sit in a laundry basket. They are probably ‘damp’ with blood, so treat them like you would sweaty clothes.

There are a few reasons you might want to get period pants into the washing machine faster:

• They could stain other clothes
• Odor can set in if they sit around as the blood dries and becomes stale-smalling
• In lighter-colored items, blood may cause staining that becomes more difficult to clean once it dries and sets

So, when you’re using period underwear, you might want to stay on top of your laundry a bit more than usual.

You should wash period underwear (just like regular underwear) after each wear. Don’t try to get a second day out of them, even if your flow was lighter than their absorbency. Hygiene is key, so stay clean. This will likely mean that you need multiple pairs of period underwear to get you through the duration of your period.

Period Underwear (Not Limited to Knix): Care FAQs

While the laundry instructions are very straightforward, you probably have a lot more questions about how to care for period panties. So, let’s walk through some of the FAQs.

Please note that if you buy a brand other than Knix, you should follow that brand’s care instructions. However, we’ll try to keep these answers broad enough that they’re helpful no matter what brand you’re trying.

Does Period Underwear Need to Be Rinsed Before Washing? 

Rinsing is not an explicit step in our laundry instructions. However, it’s really not a terrible idea—especially if you want to buy some time before you do laundry fully.

If you choose to ring your period underwear, make sure you rinse it under cold water, and you should rinse until the water runs clear. This means you’ll have rinsed away most of the blood (and, therefore, the potential for odor to develop). Gently wring the underwear when you’ve rinsed them and either toss them directly into the laundry or let it air dry until laundry day comes around.

Since you’ve already done half the work, you could also add some detergent and turn the rinse into a hand wash. 

• After you’ve rinsed the underwear, leave it to soak for about 30 minutes in some gentle detergent and cold water
• Gently agitate the underwear in the water to get rid of all dirt (not just blood, but sweat, body oil, and residue from moisturizers and other products)
• Rinse well with cold water
• Gently wring and lay flat to dry or hang dry on a washing line

Please note: It is not necessary to hand wash period underwear by Knix, but some people find it more convenient (especially if you don’t have laundry facilities in your home.) Personally, I find hand washing a really lowkey way of staying on top of my delicates - because they’re delicate, it’s not like there’s a lot of vigorous scrubbing involved.

Learn more about how to hand wash underwear here (it’s about bras, but can be applied to all underwear).

Should You Stick with a Delicate Cycle?

In general, underwear is considered delicate and usually kept on a delicate cycle. This applies to period panties too. More importantly, make sure it’s a cold water cycle. Period underwear is made of materials that may become compromised (e.g., lose elasticity) under high temperatures.

A delicate/cold water cycle will help the longevity of your underwear or period panties. There is no real need to use a mesh bag in the washing machine, but if it's something you do, you can do this too.

Now, we get it: Because of the nature of period underwear, you might think that they need to be blasted with hot water in a “heavy soil” cycle. But resist that urge: It will do more harm than good. 

If you’re worried about the underwear really coming clean, try rinsing them by hand first (until the water runs clear) and then put them in the machine on a delicate/cold water cycle. See the question above for more information on that!

Are There Specific Steps for Removing Odor in Period Pants?

Odor may set in if period underwear is left lying around soiled and damp. So the biggest thing you can do to avoid odor is to wash them more quickly after wearing them. As previously covered, you can also choose to rinse them to immediately rid them of blood. This will prevent the blood from becoming dry and stale (and assuming that metallic smell we associate with dried blood.)

If odor is a greater concern, you can also look out for odor-busting detergents. There will be many options to choose from. However, take care with harsh cleaners as they can damage delicate undergarments.

If odor is a particular cause of concern for you around your period, you might also want to chat with your doctor about it. Healthy period blood may have a slight metallic smell, but if you consider it foul-smelling, there might be something else going on.

What Type of Detergent Should You Use?

You may notice that your lingerie store sells specialty detergent or lingerie wash for washing bras, delicate underwear, and lingerie. While you don’t necessarily need a specialty lingerie detergent for your period underwear, we personally prefer to use an alcohol-free mild detergent. Some of our favorites include:

• Soak Wash: Manufactured in Toronto, Soak is an eco-friendly, rinse-free wash that cleans beautifully and is ideal for hand or machine-washing underwear.
• The Laundress: The Laundress’ Delicate Wash is ideal for lingerie and other items labeled “dry clean.” This formula removes perspiration, body oils, and stains while cleaning and preserving fabrics.

These are just two options and there are so many great earth-friendly laundry detergents for you to explore. There will be something for every budget!

If you’re dealing with a period blood stain on your underwear, you should still have a gentle approach. Do not be tempted to increase the temperature of your wash. Instead, think about repeating the soaking steps in the hand-washing section above. A soft toothbrush and a little spot treatment with your detergent can also help loosen a stain. As long as you gently rub, you won't pull the delicate fibers.

Fabric Softener with Period Underwear: Yay or Nay?

It’s a hard NO on fabric softener for period underwear (and indeed all underwear.) If you use fabric softener, you may enjoy its effect on cotton towels and bedding. But it can leave a residue on synthetic and silky fabrics. This means it can really run your period underwear (or other performance clothing like leggings.) So give the softener a wide berth when cleaning your undergarments.

How to Treat Blood Stains That Don’t Lift Out in a Regular Wash?

If you have blood stains in period (or regular) underwear or outer layer clothing, there are many time-honored tips for getting rid of those stains. You can read a whole article about getting blood stains out of underwear for more insights. These tips apply as much to period underwear as regular.

The best stain-prevention tip is to act fast. Once a stain dries, it can really set in. This is even more the case if it dries in with heat (i.e., the item has been machine washed and then machine-dried). So, whatever method you choose, your greatest chance of success is when that stain is fresh.

What About Machine Washing Period Panties With Other Items: Could the Blood Stain Other Garments?

We recommend sorting your period underwear with your other laundry by color (darks, whites, colors). Most period underwear will probably end up in the dark cycle, so you will have no concerns about blood staining other garments. 

Remember, machine cycles are quite active with washing and rinsing the water away, so you really don’t need to worry that the entire wash is sitting in bloody water. It is completely hygienic to clean period underwear with other items.

Again, if you’re concerned, a quick rinse under cool water before you toss them in the machine (see above) will help alleviate those concerns.

Don’t Let Care Put You Off: Compelling Reasons to Switch to Period Underwear

It’s completely understandable that you’d have questions about how to care for and wash your period underwear. After all, none of us wants more hassle in our lives! Rest assured, period underwear (or, at least, Knix period underwear) doesn’t require special care that will cause you headaches.

Plus, there’s so much to gain from making the switch, including:

Comfort & Confidence 💃

Period underwear won’t force you to compromise on comfort or style. In fact, they can be comfortable and pretty! You don’t need to resort to wearing those ratty old panties that you’re okay with staining. 

On lighter days, period underwear can liberate you from panty-liners. It’s also worth noting that insertables (like tampons) aren’t comfortable for everyone. So period undies open up another option. 

How many pairs of period pants you need will depend on your menstrual cycle and whether you like to wear them between periods as well. As with any new product, ease your way in. We bet you'll be a convert to absorbent underwear in no time!

Save Some 💰

Feminine hygiene products are not cheap, and many simply cannot afford them. It’s exciting to think how period undies could revolutionize periods for women worldwide. Especially those who may not have access to, or are able to afford, expensive disposable products.

Let’s face it: None of us is wish-listing tampons on our monthly spending! While the initial expenditure may be more, over time, those saved dollars can definitely add up! 

Helping the Planet! 🌎

Sustainability is something we all want to improve. Whether you’ve eliminated plastic straws or upped the ante on recycling, most of us are continually looking for ways to reduce waste.

Whether you use pads or regular tampons, applicators or not, disposable period products can create a lot of waste. Even if you don’t wholly eliminate tampons or pads, using them on fewer days can have a positive impact.

Shop for Knix period underwear here.

Skorts were originally popular for sports like tennis and field hockey. But, like so many athletic garments, they have also crossed over into mainstream fashion. Why? Because, like most athletic apparel, skorts are versatile and exceptionally practical!

But if you’re new to the world of skorts, you may be unsure how to wear them. Indeed, you might dramatically underestimate their flexibility and versatility. Surprise: One skort silhouette can lend itself to many different looks.

Why Are Skorts Suddenly So Popular?

But before we dive into the styling options, you may wonder why skorts are suddenly so popular and if they’re here to stay.

Well, we’re not trend forecasters, but considering the athleisure movement keeps going from strength to strength, we’re betting on the skort becoming a mainstay in our closets. In this regard, skorts probably belong in the same category as leggings and bike shorts—basic athletic garments that find a permanent place in our closets thanks to their adaptability and comfort.

Here are some of the reasons we believe the skort is here to stay and has a place in everybody’s closet:

1. It’s a Mini Skirt Without the Modesty Concerns

Mini skirts are cute. But constantly tugging at your hemlines, moving awkwardly because you’re afraid of flashing, and generally being self-conscious—not so cute. The skort allows you to show off your legs like you’re wearing a mini with none of the awkward fears about a wardrobe malfunction. The only thing you’re at risk of revealing is that you’re really wearing shorts!

2. Stylish Skorts Are Extremely Flattering

We all love a good pair of shorts. But sometimes shorts can be unflattering. Tight on the thighs or riding up between your legs, it can feel like shorts magnify a lot of the body parts many of us feel self-conscious about, hugging the thighs, bum, and belly.

The A-line shape of a skort is one of the most universally flattering shapes you can get. It narrows the waist and smooths all those areas that shorts may accentuate. So if shorts are a no-no for you, you might consider giving a skort a whirl!

3. They Protect Your Inner Thighs from Chafing

The delicate skin of the inner thighs can become chafed when the thighs repeatedly rub together. This is more likely to happen in the summer—not only because you’re wearing fewer layers but also because of heat and sweat. Sweat makes the skin clammy, which can cause it to drag when your thighs rub across each other.

When this happens repeatedly, the skin can become red, angry, and inflamed. One way to protect your skin from chafing is to wear a snug layer of clothing that forms a physical barrier to prevent the skin from rubbing. Skorts do exactly that. Instead of a mini skirt, which would leave the skin exposed, skorts keep the thighs encapsulated and help minimize the chances of repeated rubbing.

Sold! But How to Wear The Skort??

That may all sound great, but how do you wear a skirt without looking like you want to take on Serena Williams (good luck with that, btw.)

The good news is you shouldn’t have to go out and buy entirely new outfits. Treat the skort like a mini-skirt and style it exactly the same way. That means it can be dressed up or down for:

• Everyday casual looks (weekend shopping, brunch, etc.)
• Office looks (hard to believe, but yes!)
• Evening looks, and yes, of course:
• Sporty looks (yep, watch out, Serena!)

You’ll find a tonne of styling inspo on Pinterest, Instagram, or Tiktok too, but it’s also good to just think about what you’d wear with leggings, bike shorts, or even jeans—the skort is just as versatile as these timeless, neutral garments.

Rock a Casual Skort Look

Try pairing a skort with a striped tee or graphic tee and some ankle boots or flat strappy sandals, and you’ll have the perfect look for daywear. Don’t forget the all-important accessories! A cute crossbody purse, some jewelry, and sunglasses make this a comfortable but stylish look.

If you want a slightly more elevated version of this look, try a button-down shirt. Anything from a classic chambray or denim shirt to a tailored dress shirt or a blouse can work. 

Take the Skort to the Office

Depending on whether your office has a dress code, you may feel like the skort shows a bit too much leg to be office appropriate. But if you dress that skort with some opaque black tights, a simple top or blouse, and a great blazer, you can have the foundation of a great office ensemble.

This look can go a few different directions depending on your footwear and other styling choices. Some penny loafers and you can look preppy, heels and the look can come off as glam, or flat knee-high boots will give you a modern and chic style.

For the office, keep your jewelry classic; stud earrings and simple gold chain necklaces will elevate the look without overwhelming it.

Glam Up Your Skort for the Evening

As skorts have crossed over to fashion, many more skort silhouettes have emerged. You can find a ruffled, Liberty-print skort, wrap or pleated style, or a skort that looks like a pencil skirt. Suffice it to say you can choose a skort outfit look that perfectly bridges fashion and function.

The skort is great for evening wear because you can hit the dancefloor without a shred of self-consciousness. Or hop up on a barstool without fear of flashing everybody at the bar or restaurant. And, as you can see from all this inspo, there are many looks that are at home in eveningwear.

As with the other looks, the skort is really a neutral item here, so the look really boils down to the other garments and accessories you choose. Some strappy heels, a clutch, and some statement jewelry will do a lot of work in taking an outfit from day to evening.

Let’s Not Forget the Athletic Skort Silhouette

And, of course, there’s the original skort outfit.; tennis style skorts. Crisp basics, pleated skirts, and fresh white kicks combined, and you have that timeless skort silhouette. The top can be a white crop, polo shirt or fitted tee. If you don’t want to go full-on Wimbledon, think about introducing colors other than classic white. 

You can choose anything from warm neutral hues, to classic black (try a black T-shirt.) Basically, whatever colors you feel most at home in. This sporty look is great for daywear as well as actual sports. It’s become a winning look for playing tennis, golf and all kinds of summer sports.

Introducing: The Knix Sport Skort!

Intrigued but don’t know where to start? Check out the Knix Skort. Designed with stretch fabric and an anti-chafe short liner, you can love every frictionless movement. Plus, drop-in pockets help you keep your must-haves handy.

The Skort is designed with stretch performance fabric and a super flattering mid-rise waistband for extra comfort and support. Paired with a rounded hemline for a stylish & functional fit.

Leak-Free Gusset

Discover confidence like no other comes from wearing the right gear. The Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

Movement Made Easy

Movement should never make you feel uncomfortable, regardless of the heat or any irritating thigh friction. The lightweight & stretchy interior anti-chafe shorts keep you feeling great no matter what.

Shop the Knix Sport Skort here

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

If a Skort is a Skirt with Shorts Underneath…

Let’s go back to basics: What’s a skort in the first place?

A skort is simply a pair of shorts with a covering panel (with the fabric draped either just at the front or wraparound) that makes it look like you’re wearing a mini skirt. Skorts (like so many other wonderful, practical garments) started out as athletic garments. You may, for example, be familiar with skorts from playing tennis or field hockey.

But like so much athletic gear, modern day skorts have made a crossover into the athleisure category, which means they’re up for grabs to be worn as daywear, evening wear, and even office clothing. For inspiration on how to style your skort, click on over here. You’ll be amazed at just how versatile and practical these garments are! 

Then A Skort Dress is a Dress With Shorts Underneath!

So, if a skort is a skirt with shorts sewn in underneath, a skort dress is just that with a top part also attached. Basically: It will look like you’re wearing a dress (one garment), but you’ll have the modesty wand protection of shorts should your dress blow up or ride up when you’re sitting.

Why would somebody ever need or want to wear a skort or skort dress? Well there are a few reasons:

They Protect Your Modesty 

Usually short (like tennis skirt length), a skort or skort dress offers the benefits of wearing a short skirt paired with the modesty of wearing shorts. Whether you’re playing sports or just walking around on a hot day, a skort protects you from inadvertently flashing by-standers while still allowing you to show some leg.

They Can Help Prevent Chafing

Wearing a skort instead of a short skirt or dress will protect more than modesty: If you’re susceptible to thigh chafing when you wear skirts, the individual leg sections of the skort will offer protection for your inner thighs and help prevent the repeated rubbing that causes chafing.

Some Find Them More Flattering Than Shorts or Jumpsuits

Shorts and short jumpsuits can be divisive garments. Some of us love them, but others hate the way they can ride up between your thighs. And if you don’t love your thighs, they can accentuate them. 

A skort “smooths” out your shorts with that skirt-like panel. This can mean a smoother and more flattering silhouette on some.

How to Wear Stylish Skorts or Skort Dresses

Dresses always make you feel more “dressed up,” but they’re actually pretty low effort. After all, you don’t need to worry about mixing and matching tops and bottoms. Pop a dress on, and you’re dressed. It’s as easy as that.

So if you’ve got a skort dress, the rules are similar. Indeed, it often boils down to the accessories you choose to add to your look. Here are some ideas

1. Top Your Skort Dress Off With a Denim Jacket or Blazer

Throwing on a different jacket can give a dress very different vibes. You can choose a classic denim jacket, a leather biker jacket, or a blazer. Each one will go with a skort dress but will take the look in very different directions.

Whatever direction you choose, support the look with the right footwear so it looks like a coherent look and not that you threw on a random assortment of things in your closet!

2. Your Footwear Choices Can Take You to Casual or Dressy Places

Footwear is really important. A girly look will always tend toward heels or strappy sandals. But you can also find some pretty sneakers that will keep you in a pretty-casual vibe.

If you’re more the preppy kind, think about penny loafers or ballet flats. You can even add tights. This look is timeless, chic, and polished and works best with neutral tones.

Or, of course, you can go for a completely athletic look and keep it casual with a fitted tee, tank, and some sneakers (choose from running shoes to designer kicks).

The point is your favorite pair of shoes can be worn with your skort or skort dress—it all depends on what look you’re ultimately going for. So have fun - try on a bunch of different things until you find something that really speaks to you!

3. Don’t Forget Jewelry and Purses Too!

What’s the difference between a skort at Wimbledon and a skort for daywear. Well many things… but accessories definitely make a big difference. Try layering necklaces or wearing different styles of purses. You’ll find that the skort is versatile enough to dress-up or down and it’s often the accessories that will take it there.

Don’t forget that hair and makeup play a role here too. Not that you need to pile it on, necessarily. But if you want your skort or skort dress to carry you to a restaurant or evening event, you’ll want to think about how you really elevate the look.

Discover Knix’s Sport Skort

Introducing your new activewear essential: the Skort. Designed with stretch fabric and an anti-chafe short liner, you can love every frictionless movement. Plus, drop-in pockets help you keep your must-haves handy.

The Skort is designed with stretch performance fabric and a super flattering mid-rise waistband for extra comfort and support. Paired with a rounded hemline for a stylish & functional fit.

Leak-Free Gusset

Discover confidence like no other comes from wearing the right gear. The Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

Movement Made Easy

Movement should never make you feel uncomfortable, regardless of the heat or any irritating thigh friction. The lightweight & stretchy interior anti-chafe shorts keep you feeling great no matter what.

Shop the Knix Sport Skort here

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Skorts were originally popular as sportswear. If you played tennis or field hockey, you used to wear a short skirt and matching “underwear” beneath them. But the skort gave you one garment that did double duty: The look of a skirt, the modesty of shorts.

The Skort Outfit Transitions to Everyday Wear

Most of us can’t get enough of athleisure outfits, and in the last decade, casual wear and athletic wear have blurred entirely. Leggings that we once wore for yoga class found their way into daywear (and during the pandemic every-day-wear.) Many of us reach for a sports bra daily. And trainers have gone from something you wore for exercise to something you wear with your favorite dress.

In the last couple of years, we’ve seen bike shorts undergo a resurgence (they were last cool in the ‘80s and those Princess Diana workout looks are suddenly de rigueur again.) And skorts are hot on their heels: Practical for daytime (a short skirt without any modesty or thigh-chafing concerns!) as well as for sports.

With any resurgence comes a flexing of new rules about how to wear an item. The athletic skort may have been limited to the court or sports field in the past, but that’s no longer the case. So, what top can you wear with a skort? Well, honestly, anything goes! Skorts are as versatile as leggings in terms of their ability to be dressed up or down.

Looking for inspo? Here are some ideas of tops to wear with your favorite skort.

4 Tops to Wear With Your Skort 

So you’ve got yourself a skort, and now you’re wondering how to wear it. What top will go? Good news: A skort is extremely versatile, and you probably have a few good options in your closet already. Think about what you’d wear with jeans, leggings, or a basic mini-skirt, and you won’t go far wrong.

Still stumped? Here are a few ideas:

A Basic White or Black T-Shirt

You can’t go wrong with a classic pairing or a skort and t-shirt. Now, before you think this look will be “too Wimbledon” if you’re not hitting the court, think again: this isn’t necessarily the case! Really it all comes down to the cut of the tee and how you wear or style it.

Sure, a fitted, tucked t-shirt with real trainers will look a little ‘center court,’ but if you wear a boxy or white crop tee with a black skort and some strappy sandals, the look will take on a whole other look. Or you could wear a cute little neckerchief, some ballet flats, and a cross-body purse for a cute and continental daytime look.

As is always the case with neutral basics, a lot depends here on the styling that goes on around your basics as well as the cut and fit of those basics. Try a few different combinations and you’ll quickly realize just how far this combo can go!

Try a Graphic or Striped Tee

If you feel like you need more going on than pairing a basic black skort with a basic tee, try introducing some color or pattern. Striped tops are always a classic and will take you out of the sportswear vibe and into a chic Parisienne (or perhaps a Cape Cod nautical) sort of look. 

If you want to look less preppy, pair your black skort with a graphic tee. Vintage band tees are pretty hot right now and will definitely add an edge to your skort. Some high tops and a denim or biker jacket would complete this daytime look. Swap the hightops for heels, and you’ve got an evening look!

What About a Collared Shirt?

You might think the skort can go anywhere as long as it’s casual. But a skort can also be dressed up for the evening, and even for the office. A button-down shirt will take the “sweetness” out of the skort and give you that grown-up but always a sexy combo of masculine and feminine.

You can also try a classic denim shirt and a blazer. Add a statement necklace (or layers of necklaces) and a cute clutch, and again you can bring this look to a fashion-forward workplace or even take it on a night out. No need to worry about accidentally flashing your coworkers!

Try a Tank Top or Cropped Top for Evening

A loose, silky tank or cropped top with heels will take your skort to the dancefloor. If it helps, forget there are shorts underneath and just treat your skort like a mini-skirt. 

Once again, it’s the accessories, hair, and make-up that will do a lot of work to make this look like a true evening look. That doesn’t necessarily mean going over the top, but you’ll definitely want to consider the look as a whole (as well as your destination!)

Consider Your Materials When You Style a Skort

Skorts come in a wide variety of styles, shapes, and materials these days. And some skort materials are more versatile than others. If your skort is made out of shiny, synthetic, or stretchy material, it may come off as more “sporty.” These athletic skorts lend themselves more readily to casual looks. However, it may look odd to match this material with something silky or glamorous.

However, if your skort is made of materials more like those used in suiting or dress pants, you will find it more readily dresses up (pairing with a black or white blazer, for example) to a sophisticated look for the evening or the workplace.

Again, this may take some trial with different tops in your closet. The same applies to colors: Bright colors will always feel more vibrant, whereas neutral colors and nudes will feel more classic.

Always Style a Skort Outfit With Accessories

We’ve said this throughout, but it really cannot be emphasized enough: It’s the accessories that make the outfit and you need to think beyond the top when you style a skort. This doesn’t mean that piling on a bunch of accessories will definitely up-level a look. More: Your choice of accessories will take a look in many different directions. 

When we say accessories, we’re thinking of:

• Shoes: From sneakers (athletic or designer kicks), flats, strappy sandals to penny loafers, oxfords, ankle boots, or a variety of heels. All these choices will take your skort look in different directions
• Purses: A hobo or bucket bag is great for daywear. A more structured cross-body purse can be great for a preppy and put-together look. A clutch always works for the evening.
• Jewelry: Earrings (big or small stud earrings), necklaces (simple, layered, or statement), and rings and bracelets will all help set the look you’re going for.

Similarly, your hair and make-up will set a tone. It’s really important to think of these things together. They will either support the look you’re going for or undermine and confuse it.

If you’re looking for more skort styling inspiration, search Pinterest, Tiktok or Instagram for skort styling.

Introducing: The Knix Sport Skort!

Intrigued but don’t know where to start? Check out the Knix Skort. Designed with stretch fabric and an anti-chafe short liner, you can love every frictionless movement. Plus, drop-in pockets help you keep your must-haves handy.

The Skort is designed with stretch performance fabric and a super flattering mid-rise waistband for extra comfort and support. Paired with a rounded hemline for a stylish & functional fit.

Leak-Free Gusset

Discover confidence like no other comes from wearing the right gear. The Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

Movement Made Easy

Movement should never make you feel uncomfortable, regardless of the heat or any irritating thigh friction. The lightweight & stretchy interior anti-chafe shorts keep you feeling great no matter what.

Shop the Knix Sport Skort here

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

The answer is YES. And we shouldn’t be really surprised. Since the legging made the crossover from running and yoga to everyday wear, our love affair with all things athleisure has been going strong. 

In more recent years, bike shorts made a summer comeback. And now we’re all collectively realizing that skorts are mini skirts with so many benefits!

The Benefits of Skorts

If you’re confused about what exactly a skort is, go here first. But you might wonder why we need shorts that masquerade as a skirt. Well, there are real practical benefits:

No More Accidental Flashing

Ever had your mini skirt blow up on a breezy day? Or had an awkward moment sitting down or crossing your legs? Maybe you’re a bike rider and sick of this limiting your ability to wear a skirt in the summer? Or, maybe (like me) you’re just the kind of person who wardrobe malfunctions will happen to no matter what…

The skort can save you. You’ll be able to wear a skirt as short as you want to go and not worry about flashing anybody because your skirt has built-in shorts. Bingo. Freedom from wardrobe malfunctions! 

Protect Your Delicate Thighs

If you’re susceptible to chafing of the inner thighs, you’ll know how much it can ruin that cute dress or mini-skirt look in the summer, leaving you in agonizing pain. Thigh Savers are literally a lifesaver for many looks. But a skort is like a skirt with the Thigh Savers included. So you don’t need to wear a separate garment to protect your thighs from the repeated rubbing that causes chafing.

Buh-Bye to Skin Contact With Icky Stuff

That sticky feeling of sitting on a hot leather car seat? That icky feeling of sitting on a dirty park bench or placing your thighs on a gross subway seat? These scenarios are another reason we love our Thigh Savers. But a skort does the same thing, so it’s really a winning garment.

While we’re talking about icky stuff, that extra layer will also help absorb sweat. So if you’re susceptible to sweat on the back of your thighs or your groin (yes, it’s a thing, and it can happen to anyone), a skort can seriously help.

How to Style a Skort

When you’re thinking about the possibilities of wearing a skort, it’s good to think of it as just a skirt. After all, nobody really needs to know there are shorts underneath. The classic skort silhouette is a slightly a-line skirt that hits mid-thigh—a pretty classic mini-skirt that lends itself to a lot of different looks. Read on!

Crisp Basics, Pleated Skirts (or Skorts) for a Wimbledon Look

It’s the obvious look, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t include the classic sporty skort look. Pair your skort with a sports bra, tank, or another workout top (or a fitted tee or polo shirt), and you have a court-ready look. This classic tennis look is so timeless it has made its way into other sports, too, including golf. 

Traditionally this look would be all white, and the skort would be pleated. But there’s no need to follow those rules for this look. You can introduce other colors, mix neutrals (like a black t-shirt) and play with the length and style of the skort.

Introduce Color and Accessories for a Casual Skort Outfit

Want a skort outfit that's less athletic and more athleisure? Try swapping out that sporty top for something more casual; a graphic tee or striped tee, blouse, sweatshirt, or another top will work. Swap the trainers for some casual kicks or flat, strappy sandals or even ankle boots. And introduce accessories; a cute crossbody purse and some jewelry, and you’ll leave those tennis-style skorts well behind you!

Color and pattern can play a role here, but basically, just try out your skort with any combo of clothes you would wear with shorts, leggings, or jeans, and you should have a great casual, brunch look!

A Skort Over Tights with a Blazer Is Office-Friendly

Just because it’s athleisure doesn’t mean it can’t be elevated. We’ve seen skort looks that can take you everywhere, from office to club and everything in between.  Just scroll through the skort hashtag on Instagram, and you’ll see how versatile they are!

To take the skort to the office, pair a black skort with opaque tights, a shirt or neutral top, and a statement blazer. Even if your workplace has a dress code, this look will fly beneath the radar. Make sure to accessorize with the right shoes (we like penny loafers for a preppy look or heels for a more glam office look) and a great purse. Polished hair and make-up will complete the look.

Or you could try a version of this look with only warm neutral hues, like cream and camel. Pay attention to materials; a camel cashmere polo neck, a wool coat… this is a sumptuous and timelessly elegant look that works on women of every age. These colors tend to look instantly luxurious and upscale, so keep your accessories elevated, too; some simple stud earrings and simple gold chain necklaces and you’ll look understated and expensive.

Treat Your Skort Like a Mini-Skirt, and You Can Rock an Evening Look

Remember! Your skort is just a mini skirt! So you can really take it anywhere, including a restaurant, bar, or nightclub. A cute sequin or lacy top and some heels will take you to the dancefloor. If you’re more subdued in style, you can wear some designer kicks and keep it casual. 

Again, you really don’t need to reinvent your style here. Try on what’s already in your closet, and you’ll be surprised how much of it will work with a skort!

Basically, Skort Silhouettes and Styles Come in a Huge Variety

Like leggings and bike shorts, skorts are becoming an athleisure staple in our wardrobe. Part of their staying power is that they’re basically neutral. They can be dressed up or dressed down. They perform when you need them to (if you’re active or playing sports), but they also perform in everyday scenarios (riding your bike, at work, dining out).

A skort takes a lot of the Fear Factor out of wearing a mini skirt. And as they’ve become more popular, there are more and more styles, from pencil skirts to mini-skirts, ruffled skirts, wrap or pleated style, and classic neutrals. Basically, there’s a skort out there for everyone!

Discover the Knix Sport Skort!

Intrigued but don’t know where to start? Check out the Knix Skort. Designed with stretch fabric and an anti-chafe short liner, you can love every frictionless movement. Plus, drop-in pockets help you keep your must-haves handy.

The Skort is designed with stretch performance fabric and a super flattering mid-rise waistband for extra comfort and support. Paired with a rounded hemline for a stylish & functional fit.

Leak-Free Gusset

Discover confidence like no other comes from wearing the right gear. The Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

Movement Made Easy

Movement should never make you feel uncomfortable, regardless of the heat or any irritating thigh friction. The lightweight & stretchy interior anti-chafe shorts keep you feeling great no matter what.

Shop the Knix Sport Skort here

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

But first: What is a skort? A skort is a pair of shorts with an extra fabric panel at the front (and sometimes the back too). This front panel makes the shorts resemble a skirt. Skorts are usually considered women’s garments.

Some of us haven’t quite figured out how to wear skorts beyond the obvious Wimbledon connotations. If you think skorts are limited to the golf course or tennis court, think again!

Versatile Skort Silhouettes Mean Lots of Looks…

Skorts come in lots of different styles, materials, patterns, and colors these days. This means there’s a lot of flexibility to pull them into a wide variety of looks. 

Basically, any skirt style can be a skort. This means a skort can be the classic a-line mini skirt (like a tennis skirt.) But a skort can also be a layered frilly skirt, a micro-mini or a pencil skirt. Often, the design has ventured so far from what we’d ordinarily think of as a skort that you’d never know it was a skort at all.

With all these choices come lots of styling options. We’ve broken down our favorites, but don’t feel limited. If you’ve got a skort, try it on with different sweaters, tops, tees and footwear. Playing with the proportions of your body, you might find some combinations that surprise you! And don’t forget the difference accessories, hair, and makeup can make to elevating or downplaying an outfit. 

Here are some of our favorite takes on the skort.

An Athletic Skort Look Is Still the Best Bet

Say what you want; a skort is still an activewear classic. Picture crisp basics, pleated skirts. Whether you’re legit playing sports or just want that sporty, casual vibe for daytime or brunching, tennis-style skorts are the perfect swap-put for leggings on hot days.

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If you’re active or on the go, skorts offer many benefits beyond style options!

• Modesty: A skort offers the benefits of wearing a short skirt paired with the modesty of wearing shorts. Whether you’re playing sports or just walking around on a hot day, a skort protects you from inadvertently flashing by-standers while still allowing you to show some leg.
• Prevent Chafing: If you’re susceptible to thigh chafing when you wear skirts, the individual leg sections of the skort will offer protection for your inner thighs and help prevent the repeated rubbing that causes chafing.
• Sweat and Leak Absorption: The Knix Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

For a sporty skort look, your skort and some fresh white kicks combined with a sports bra, white crop top or tank, fitted tee or polo top, for a look that’s at home on the court, field, gym, or high street. You can also go all-black here, with a black skort and black t-shirt.

A Casual Daywear Look

With a little tweaking, skorts can easily make a transition from “sporty” to “casual.” Introducing accessories (a purse, sunglasses and dressier sneaks) will go a long way. Stay away from the all-white tennis look and play with colors, layers, or a graphic tee, and you’ll have a look that perfectly bridges fashion and sportswear, and is ideal for gallivanting around town or brunching.

Here’s some Instagram inspo!

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Try a Dressy Skort Outfit

Think that’s the limit of skort looks? Think again!

One skort silhouette we love: A button-down shirt and dressy sandals totally elevate the skort to ‘chic mini skirt’ territory. Note the clever color-blocking here too; the purse complements the shirt color, so it all pulls together as a very coherent and well-put-together look that you could definitely wear to a dinner or a bar.

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A post shared by Chetali Narula (@chetalinarula)

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There’s Even a Skort Look for the Office?!

You might think we’re really pushing it now, but you can totally pull off a black skort as office wear. You can find skorts in a wrap or pleated style, even a pencil skort silhouette. Just check out these two looks.

There tends to be more modesty in the office, so the extra coverage of a jacket over a black crewneck tee or a striped tee keeps things simple and strong. Add some stud earrings, simple gold chain necklacess and some ankle boots with tights and you'll have a strong and stylish skorts look.

The skort actually fades into the background here - it’s all about a strong jacket to make the look more professional. Tights are also doing a lot of work in both these looks (with office footwear). Even though these are very different looks; one more preppy and the other a little more elegant office, both work really well in a professional context.

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The Girly Skort Outfit

There are loads of skort designs out there, including those flirty, floral short skirts that are great in hot summer months. The benefit of rendering these designs as skorts instead of skirts is twofold: 

• First, they better protect the wearers modesty. Because these designers are looser and are made with flowy materials, they can easily blow up. So having them be a skort instead of a skirt offers protection from accidentally flashing strangers on the street.
• Second, this style of skirt is perfect for a sweltering hot day. But you know what else happens on a hot day? Sweat and chafing. As skorts, they offer more coverage and protection from skin-on-skin friction on the inner thighs.

These short, flirty skorts can be worn just like summer skirts; dressed-up, dressed down with flat strappy sandals. It’s a summer classic look with a practical addition! You’ll find options like a Liberty print skort, ruffle skort and more that would work with this look.

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The Skort as a Luxe Vibe

If your style is more grown-up, elegant and expensive, you may feel like the skort has nothing to offer you. But don’t rule it out. Selecting only warm neutral hues and pairing your skort with other sumptuous materials (cashmere, luxe knits, a great wool coat) can create a look that’s elegant and luxurious. 

The key for us here is staying tonal and really thinking about the materials and accessories. An all-camel, all-grey or all-black look in beautiful fabrics with the right accessories will always strike a timeless and elegant chord.

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A post shared by Virgit Canaz 📍🇬🇧 (@preppyfashionist)

Want to Wear a Skort? Discover the Knix Sport Skort

Introducing your new activewear essential: the Skort. Designed with stretch fabric and an anti-chafe short liner, you can love every frictionless movement. Plus, drop-in pockets help you keep your must-haves handy.

The Skort is designed with stretch performance fabric and a super flattering mid-rise waistband for extra comfort and support. Paired with a rounded hemline for a stylish & functional fit.

Leak-Free Gusset

Discover confidence like no other comes from wearing the right gear. The Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

Movement Made Easy

Movement should never make you feel uncomfortable, regardless of the heat or any irritating thigh friction. The lightweight & stretchy interior anti-chafe shorts keep you feeling great no matter what.

Shop the Knix Sport Skort here

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

A Women’s Garment Resembling a Skirt? Show Me!

Skorts are often associated with activewear and athletic apparel. Common for tennis and field hockey, cheerleader outfits, and even swimsuits, skorts remove the necessity for separate bottoms under a short skirt. (You may find them sold in specialty sporting stores as a tennis skort or golf skort.)

But as we all know, there’s a lot of crossover between fashion and athletic gear these days, so it should be no surprise that skorts have found a place in daywear. 

A skort can be a great addition to your summer wardrobe: It allows you to wear a short skirt but with modesty. It means you won’t have that sticky feeling when you sit on a hot car seat or that unpleasant feeling of sitting on a park bench or bus seat that’s less than clean.

If you like to ride bikes or are generally active, a skort lets you do all those things without worrying about the wind blowing the wrong way.

Why Would Anybody Wear Skorts? Some Benefits…

A skort might seem a bit convoluted to some, but they’re really handy garments to have in your closet for a number of reasons:

They Protect Your Modesty 

Usually short (like tennis skirt length), a skort offers the benefits of wearing a short skirt paired with the modesty of wearing shorts. Whether you’re playing sports or just walking around on a hot day, a skort protects you from inadvertently flashing by-standers while still allowing you to show some leg.

They Can Help Prevent Chafing

Wearing a skort instead of a short skirt will protect more than modesty: If you’re susceptible to thigh chafing when you wear skirts, the individual leg sections of the skort will offer protection for your inner thighs and help prevent the repeated rubbing that causes chafing.

Some Find Them More Flattering Than Shorts

Shorts can be a divisive garment. Some of us love them, but others hate the way they can ride up. And if you don’t love your thighs, they can accentuate them. 

A skort “smooths” out your shorts with that skirt-like panel. This can mean a smoother and more flattering silhouette on some.

How to Style a Skort

Like leggings, bike shorts, and other athleisure items that have crossed over into mainstream fashion, skorts have proved o be versatile items of clothing that you can wear in many different ways, dressing them up, dressing them down, and generally treating them like a wardrobe staple.

Sporty Skort

Perhaps the most obvious look for a skort is pure sport. Pair them with sports bras, vests, or polo tops, and some trainers will be at home on the court, field, gym, or high street. 

Casual Skort

If you want to soften up the sporty look but still keep it casual, pair a skort with a fitted tee. Throw on a denim jacket and choose some simple sandals or a dressy pair of sneakers, and the skort will become a neutral garment that fades into the background. 

Dressed-Up Skort

A skort may not be easy to imagine as evening wear, but a fitted button-down shirt and the right accessories (a cute purse, some dressy sandals) will elevate it way beyond its athletic roots. Remember, jewelry, hair, and makeup always play a role in elevating an ensemble! Basically, any way you would wear a mini skirt, you can wear skorts!

Discover Knix’s Sport Skort

Introducing your new activewear essential: the Skort. Designed with stretch fabric and an anti-chafe short liner, you can love every frictionless movement. Plus, drop-in pockets help you keep your must-haves handy.

The Skort is designed with stretch performance fabric and a super flattering mid-rise waistband for extra comfort and support. Paired with a rounded hemline for a stylish & functional fit.

Leak-Free Gusset

Discover confidence like no other comes from wearing the right gear. The Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

Movement Made Easy

Movement should never make you feel uncomfortable, regardless of the heat or any irritating thigh friction. The lightweight & stretchy interior anti-chafe shorts keep you feeling great no matter what.

Shop the Knix Sport Skort here

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

At Knix, we believe in body positivity, in shattering those old standards of beauty that excluded so many of us because of shape, size, or color. 

We believe you should wear whatever you damn well please as long as you feel badass, bold, and beautiful when you’re wearing it. So, you’re not going to give you the same old, same old advice about what style, shape, or color swimsuit. Basically, we want you to follow your heart and find something that makes you feel smokin’.

Is it Bad to Have Body Hang-ups in Body Positive Times?

Okay, so we believe all of that.

But we also know it’s not always easy.

In fact, if you don’t like some aspect of your body, or you’re self-conscious about [insert any body part], now can be a tough time to express those feelings. You’ll be hit with a chorus of people telling you to embrace and love your body. And they’re right. But that doesn’t make it easy to just flip that switch in your head.

We all have internalized a lot of direct and indirect messages about our bodies, and it isn’t easy to just turn those off. 

But it’s also possible to struggle with different parts of your body at different times of your life. Many women experience this after childbirth. I had major surgery, and it really took time for me to learn to trust my body (and accept its changed shape) after that. Some of us spend a lot of our lives losing and gaining weight and not in some yo-yo extreme diet way, but simply because sometimes we’re stressed, overworked, and don’t have time for exercise, and other times, we strike that perfect balance where everything just clicks.

So, I’d like to make some room in the body-positive conversation for those of us who aren’t always completely BOOYAH about our appearance. For those of us who want clothing or swimsuits that give us a helping hand. This isn’t about trying to promote an unrealistic standard of beauty. This is simply about acknowledging that we sometimes struggle with this crazy, changing, mutable relationship with our bodies.

Forget Body Type: Start With What You Love

How about flipping this script? Instead of focusing on finding swimwear that minimizes or conceals the aspects of our bodies we are struggling with, or obsessing over body type (apple, pear, triangle, hourglass shape, square!?), simply start with what you love.

Want to Accentuate Your Waist?

If you’re the type of person who loves wearing a wide belt around a dress, you probably really like your waist. There are a few kinds of swimsuits that will help you accentuate that:

• Bikini: Obviously, a bikini literally shows your waist, letting your curves speak for themselves
• Wrap swimsuit: The tie at the waist will help accentuate a slimmer waist
• Waist cut-outs or color blocking: Can be placed strategically to draw attention to or minimize areas

...Or If You Want to Show a Little Cleavage

On the flip side, if you want to show a little cleavage, here are some styles of swimsuit that will accentuate your neck and decollete. Look for:

• A plunging neckline
• Push-up style support
• Scoop neck
• Triangle tops
• A classic string bikini

You Want to Show a Little Butt Cleavage

If you love your legs and your derriere, you might really like your behind and feel that full coverage is fuddy-duddy… Again, take a cue from your favorite underwear and look for styles that include:

• Medium-coverage 
• High cut bottoms that will elongate legs

Related: What type of swimsuit should I wear?

Okay: But What About Practical Needs?

Accentuating your assets is a great way to narrow your swimsuit selection. But swimsuits also come with practical needs, and when you're swimsuit shopping, it's important to know how to look for features that will address those needs: 

You Want Extra Support for a Large Bust

If you have a larger bust, you may need a swimsuit that offers support so that movement is minimized and you feel stable and snug by the pool or on the beach.

Features to look for include:

• Wide straps
• Adjustable straps
• Built-in “invisible” support
• Underwire bikini top
• Full coverage cups
• Halter tops

You’re Two Different Sizes Top & Bottom

Some of us are two different sizes, and this can make buying one-piece garments like jumpsuits, dresses and the one-piece swimsuit incredibly hard.

Perhaps you have a thin straight torso but a very full bust? Or maybe you’re petite on top but wide-hipped? If these scenarios ring true for you, don’t despair. 

A two-piece (or bikini) will allow you to mix-and-match sizes as well as styles. If you don’t feel comfortable showing your midriff, you can opt for a tankini, so you’ll get that one-piece look with the sizing flexibility of a two-piece. 

You Want Bathing Suits That Offer Protection on Your Period

Can you swim on your period? Absolutely! Whether you want a complete alternative to disposable products or want a backup for your tampon or menstrual cup, period swimwear can be used either on its own or as a backup. Learn more about period swimwear here.

Fit Is Key: Choose the Right Size Swimsuit

You can nail the right style, but choose the wrong size, and you might as well stay home. Never mind how you look, you simply won’t feel comfortable! 

So, no matter what brand you’re shopping from here are some general pointers:

Start With Your Regular Clothing Size

Swimsuits, like most garments with a lot of stretch, often look misleadingly small on the hanger. So don’t judge too much based on their appearance on the hanger. 

The best jumping-off point is the size you typically take. For swimsuits, this may be indicated as small/medium/large, etc., or in traditional sizes like size 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, etc.

While sizing is rarely standard across brands, and most of us go up and down across brands, this is the best place to start...

Consult the Size Chart & Whip Out Your Tape Measure

To get a clearer understanding of the sizes, pull up the size charts on the website you’re on. Most websites will have a size chart linked in the product details of individual items.

Depending on the retailer, the size charts might include measurements for bust/underbust, waist, hips, and torso length. Measurements may be in inches or centimeters. 

To take accurate measurements, it’s best to use a fabric (seamstress) measurement tape and take the following measurements:

• Bust: To get this measurement, measure over the fullest part of your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Underbust: This measurement will especially matter for underwire swimsuits or bikini tops. To get this measurement, measure directly under your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Waist: This is the measurement around the narrowest part of your natural waistline.
• Hips: This is the measurement around the fullest part of your hip, before the thigh begins to narrow. 
• Torso length: Torso length is important for swimsuits. You get this measurement by taking a measurement from your shoulder to the crotch, at a measurement.

Compare the measurements you come up with with the size charge. Remember to read the size charts carefully to make sure you’re adhering to any particular measurement directions.

If You’re Between Two Bathing Suit Sizes, Go Small

Swimsuits usually have a lot of elastication and stretch over time and when wet, so if you’re right between two sizes, you’re likely safe going small. 

That said, going for a smaller swimsuit size shouldn’t push you into an uncomfortable experience. So if you notice any uncomfortable compression or red marks on your skin, or find the suit difficult to get on and off, it’s likely you’ve gone too small.

Order Multiple Sizes (Checking Returns Policy)

Note: Different retailers will have different return policies (especially when items are on sale), so check that before trying this tip. Knix Swimwear is eligible for a return or exchange within 30 days of delivery and with the original sanitary strip and tags attached.

But assuming returns are easy, you might consider ordering multiple sizes (your size and the sizes up and down from it) so you can try on in the comfort of your home. Once you’re confident you’ve found the right size, return the others.

Try Swimsuits at Home

Always try on your new swimsuit at home (even if you already tried it on in-store). There’s something about being at home, where you’re most comfortable, and trying on clothes that will give you a better sense of whether items fit correctly and are comfortable.

You’re familiar with the lighting, and with your own mirrors. Plus, you’ll feel less rushed and even get a second opinion if you want one. 

Two-Pieces Let You Pick Two Sizes

Two-piece swimsuits have the advantage of being sold as two separate parts, which means you can order a top and bottom in different sizes. If your body is two different sizes (e.g. you have a very full bust but narrow hips, or big hips and small breasts, or generally your bottom half and top half are just different sizes), this may be an easier option than a one-piece which is designed for more uniform sizing.

Options for the bottom half will include:

• Boy shorts
• High waisted bottoms
• High cut bikini bottoms
• Full coverage bottoms

It often makes sense to take a cue from your favorite underwear to find the most flattering fit for your body shape.

Options for the top half will include:

• Bandeau tops
• Halter tops
• Tops with wide-set straps
• String bikinis

Think About Hue: What Colors Work for You

When it comes to wearing color, there are just ask many rules as there are about choosing the right shape swimsuit. And, as usual, my instinct is: Screw it, wear the solid color or pattern you love, and you'll feel great in your own skin.

But generally, I find the colors I love are the ones that suit my skin tone, so if you want to learn more about what colors look good next to your skin, read on:

If you truly love a certain bright color, and feel great wearing it, don’t let some pesky fashion rule stand in your way. Life’s too short!

But in general, warm skin tones love warm color tones, and cool skin undertones love cool tones. But how do you tell whether you have a warm or cool skin tone? This isn’t simply a matter of how dark you are. Here are some quick hints about what your skin tone might be. If you fall somewhere in between the two, you probably have a neutral skin tone. 

To learn more about the colors suggested for these skin tones, and for fair and dark skins, check out this article. But here’s a little summary:

For those with cool undertones on the fair end of the spectrum, those deep jewel tones will be reliably flattering swimsuit colors to your pale or fair skin. Pale skin also works well with a classic red. Your colors include:

• Bright white
• Purple, magenta, amethyst shades
• A red with blue undertones (classic pillar box red)
• Sapphire blues
• Emerald greens

Of course, black is reliably good on everybody, no matter what your body type or complexion.

Candy colors tend to look amazing on those with cool undertones and darker skin. A bright white will also provide a delightful contrast with dark skin that has a cool undertone.

• Bright white
• Lilac
• Classic pink
• Aquamarine
• Mint greens

If you have warm undertones and fair skin or pale skin, light colors can blend into your skin, giving you that “nearly naked look”! Instead, choose those earthier colors, including:

• Mustard yellow
• Orange
• Dark brown
• Khaki green or olive green
• Burgundy or merlot reds

If you have a warm skin tone and darker skin, you can definitely go for lighter shades without worrying about them blending into your skin tone. These include:

• Warm whites and beiges
• Peachy pinks
• Corals
• Sage greens
• Soft lemon hues

Throw Away the Style Rules When They No Longer Serve!

So, there’s a bunch of take-it-or-leave-it advice about what to look for in a swimsuit that: 

• Accentuates your favorite bits
• Fits properly
• Complements your skin tone

But don’t feel like you need to follow these rules, they’re only useful as far as they’re helpful. And sometimes your favorite item will be the one that breaks all the rules. That’s okay too. Fashion and design would never evolve if there weren’t people who broke the rules!

The most important thing is that you love how you look in your swimsuit or any other clothing!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

 Seriously, the minute I see articles reducing people to a body shape or body type and prescribing fashion styles as a “solution” to their body shape or type, I feel despair. All of this seems to me to be premised on some pretty toxic standards of beauty that assume we all aspire to a certain look, shape, and set of proportions. Let’s let all of that go!

It’s Simple: Forget Body Type and Body Shape and Wear Whatever Swimsuit You Love

The one thing that I’ll be adamant about is that you should be able to find a swimsuit you LOVE.

I don’t care if you’ve got broad shoulders, are an inverted triangle, have an athletic figure, or are pear shape or apple shape (seriously, can we stop likening our bodies to fruit?!)

Look, I’m not going to drown you in body positivity or claim that’s always easy. It’s one thing to say all bodies are beautiful bodies. It’s another thing to believe that when you’re bathing suit shopping, standing in front of a 3-way mirror seeing yourself from angles you’ve never seen before. 

But, seriously, I mean it: No matter what your size or shape, there should be a bathing suit you love. And when you put it on, that’s really the only rule you need to follow.

Let’s Move Beyond "Body Shapes" Beauty Standards and Focus on Needs

Okay, so I think beauty standards are baloney. But I do believe we all have different needs. And some of us have different needs at different times (and that’s how you talk yourself into multiple swimsuits 😉).

So let’s take a look at some of the most common needs and what kind of swimsuit will help address them!

You Need Upper Body Breast Support

If you have a larger bust, you may need a bathing suit that offers support so that upper body movement is minimized and you feel stable and snug by the pool or on the beach..

Features to look for include:

• Wide or thick straps
• Adjustable straps
• Built-in “invisible” support
• Underwire
• Full coverage cups

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Deep V One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Top: Sculpt Bandeau Bikini Top

You’re on Your Period & Worried About Leaks

Period swimwear looks on the outside like a regular swimsuit. It comes in different styles (one-piece, bikinis, and everything in between) and colors. But it has one key difference from regular swimwear: It is designed to absorb and hold period blood as an alternative to traditional period protection, like tampons.

The layered fabric in the gusset of Knix leakproof swimwear traps and absorbs menstrual blood, so it doesn't leak in the water (or on land!) Our Swimwear features the same Leakproof Technology as our Period Underwear with an additional thin layer of waterproof material for extra protection.

Check out our Period swimwear here

You Want a Swimsuit That Doesn’t Ride Up Your You-Know-What

Okay, I’m sure there are some people out there who don’t care when this happens. But, to me, it’s like my sock sliding down into my shoe. It feels all kinds of uncomfortable, and the last thing I want is to be self-consciously tugging at my derriere.

Pro-tip: Take a cue from your favorite style of underwear here. Odds are you’re wearing a style that you feel best in already, so just look for the bathing suit version of that style!

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Classic One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Bottoms: Full Coverage Bikini Swim Bottom

You Want to Accentuate Your Waist

If you’re the type of person who loves wearing a wide belt around a dress, you probably really like your waist. There are a few kinds of swimsuits that will help you accentuate that:

• Bikini: Obviously, a bikini literally shows your waist, letting your curves speak for themselves
• Wrap swimsuit: The tie at the waist will accentuate this area
• Waist cut-outs or color blocking: Can be placed strategically to accentuate or minimize areas.

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Side-Tie One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Bottom: Bikini Swim Bottom

You’re Into Performance

Some of us go to the beach to lounge, read a book, and take an occasional dip. Or we spend equal times poolside as doing laps. But others like to be on the move constantly. Swimming, beach volleyball, diving, and so forth. If you’re a mover and shaker, you want a swim suit designed to stay put, support you, and let you focus on what you’re doing (i.e., a zero distraction suit).

The High Energy One Piece is a sleek suit that features a chunky front zipper, a high neck, and a racer back for maximum range of motion. Mesh sides create interesting style lines while also giving you good support.

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: High Energy One Piece

You Need Maximum Modesty and/or Sun Protection

These days, we understand the risks of sun damage a lot more than we used to. Whether you’re coming at it from a cosmetic angle and worried about premature aging, or you’re thinking about health issues like skin cancer (or a bit of both!), most of us want to protect our skin from prolonged sun exposure and harmful UV rays.

And if you’re in and out of the water all day, it can be challenging to maintain sunscreen applications. A rash guard provides a physical barrier between your skin and the sun that can supplement and support your other sun protection efforts. But material alone doesn’t protect you from harmful UV rays. Look for a rash guard with sun-repellent materials and properties measured by an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating.

You Sometimes Experience Light Bladder Leaks

Trick answer: The same swimwear that works to absorb period blood also works for light bladder leaks. Like our leakproof underwear, leakproof swimwear works to absorb period blood or light bladder leaks, keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable while you enjoy the sun and surf.

You Just Don’t Like a Lot of Fuss

Want a streamlined, no-muss no-fuss classic swimsuit? You’re looking for a classic maillot. These suits are usually completely unadorned with no visual breaks and a clean neckline and straight back. However, do look for details to give you the support you need, like an invisible built-in bra and/or adjustable straps.

Knix Best Bet One-Piece: Classic One Piece

You LOVE the Little Details

Cute details are a nice way to express a little personality with your suit. Maybe you want the sexy edginess of a strategically placed cut-out. Or perhaps you prefer the flirty femininity of frills. 

Of course, color can come into play here, too, as can pattern. If you want to stand out in a sea of plain black maillots, there are tonnes of good options. Look out for:

• Cut out details
• Strategically placed frills
• Details like zippers and ties
• Scalloped edging
• Color and pattern

Knix Best Bet One-Piece: Side-Tie One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece: Sculpt Bandeau Bikini Top

You’d Like Some Tummy Support

One of the most common areas we share anxiety about is our belly/midriff area, especially postpartum. First, a reminder here that there’s nothing wrong with your body and, as long as you’re happy, you can wear any damn swimsuit you please.

But if your midriff bothers you, we want you to feel comfortable too, and a high waist with some tummy control can be your best friend. So here are some styles of flattering swimwear that will help:

• A ruched swimsuit
• High-waisted bikini bottoms that offer more coverage
• Gentle compression or tummy control to hold you in 

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bottom: Ultra High Rise Bikini Swim Bottom

What About Choosing Colors: Are There Rules?

If you truly love a certain color, and feel great wearing it, don’t let some pesky fashion rule stand in your way. Life’s too short!

But in general, warm skin tones love warm color tones, and cool skin undertones love cool tones. But how do you tell whether you have a warm or cool skin tone? This isn’t simply a matter of how dark you are. Here are some quick hints about what your skin tone might be. If you fall somewhere in between the two, you probably have a neutral skin tone.

To learn more about the colors suggested for these skin tones, and for fair and dark skins, check out this article. But here’s a little summary:

For those with cool undertones on the fair end of the spectrum, those deep jewel tones will be reliably flattering swimsuit colors to your pale or fair skin. Pale skin also works well with a classic red. Your colors include:

• Bright white
• Purple, magenta, and amethyst shades
• A red with blue undertones (classic pillar box red)
• Sapphire blues
• Emerald greens

Of course, black is reliably good on everybody, no matter what your body type or complexion.

Candy colors tend to look amazing on those with cool undertones and darker skin. A bright white will also provide a delightful contrast with dark skin that has a cool undertone.

• Bright white
• Lilac
• Classic pink
• Aquamarine
• Mint greens

If you have warm undertones and fair skin or pale skin, light colors can blend into your skin, giving you that “nearly naked look”! Instead, choose those earthier colors, including:

• Mustard yellow
• Orange
• Dark brown
• Khaki green or olive green
• Burgundy or merlot reds

If you have a warm skin tone and darker skin, you can definitely go for lighter shades without worrying about them blending into your skin tone. These include:

• Warm whites and beiges
• Peachy pinks
• Corals
• Sage greens
• Soft lemon hues

Love Your Body, Love Your Swimsuit

Instead of focusing on finding the most flattering styles of swimsuit for your body type, focus on finding a swimsuit that you love, and on accepting your body as it is today. One style that suits all body types is happiness, and if you’re confident and comfortable in your skin, you’ll always look beautiful. 

So whether you love a plunging neckline, thin straps on an itty bitty bikini, or sensible one-piece swimsuits, follow your heart and your personal style, and you can’t go wrong.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

There are no real fashion rules anymore. You can wear basic neutrals, graphic patterns, and any and every hue and shade as long as it makes you feel confident and happy.

That said, some of us want to choose swimwear or period swimwear colors that really complement our skin tone (this is especially relevant when so much skin is on display.) Skin tone isn’t just about how dark your skin is, but the skin’s undertones, which can be warm or cool.

Warm Skin Tones Versus Cool Skin Tones

If you’ve ever shopped for red lipstick, you’ll know that there are myriad shades of red. Some are warm with undertones of orange or brown. Some have a cooler, blue undertone. Finding the right shade for you is often less a matter of preference and more a matter of matching the undertones of the lipstick with that of your skin. 

In general, warm skin tones love warm color tones, and cool skin undertones love cool color tones. But how do you tell whether you have a warm or cool skin tone? This isn’t simply a matter of how dark you are. 

Here are some quick hints about what your skin tone might be. If you fall somewhere in between the two, you probably have a neutral skin tone.

Still confused about your skin tone? Here are some other ways to determine it:

Consider Your Hair and Eye Color

There will always be exceptions to this (especially for those of us who love to mess around with our hair color!), but here’s the typical divide:

Look at Your Wardrobe!

Most of us gravitate to a certain palette in our closet and have generally learned over time what colors flatter us. 

If your closet is full of jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and purples, odds are you have a cool skin tone.

If you prefer autumnal shades; reds, browns, and olive greens, you probably have warm skin.

(Note: Pastels are harder to judge as they have a lot of white in them and can all have undertones that are bluer or more yellow, which means you can find pastels that are warm and pastels that are cool. Take pink, for example; a peachy millennial pink is definitely warm. But the stereotypical “little girl pink” (ugh, gendered colors) is bluer in undertone and therefore cooler.)

Now that we have an understanding of skin tone, we can look at fair versus dark skin with those dimensions in mind.

Let's crack the 'what color swimsuit should I wear' code!

Cool Skin Tones: What to Wear for Fair Skin & Dark Skin

For those with cool undertones on the fair end of the spectrum, those deep jewel tones will be reliably flattering swimsuit colors to your pale or fair skin. Pale skin also works well with a classic red. Your colors include:

• Bright white
• Purple, magenta, and amethyst shades
• A red with blue undertones (classic pillar box red)
• Sapphire blues (or even a navy blue or other bold blues)
• Emerald greens

Of course, black is reliably safe for everybody!

Colors for cool skin tones to avoid are yellows, oranges, or browns. These will tend to make you look very blue and washed out.

Candy colors tend to look amazing on those with cool undertones and darker skin. A bright white will also provide a delightful contrast with dark skin that has a cool undertone.

• Bright white
• Lilac
• Classic pink
• Aquamarine
• Mint greens

Warm Skin Tones: What to Wear for Warm Tone & Dark Skin

If you have warm undertones and fair skin or pale skin, light colors can blend into your skin, giving you that “nearly naked look.” Some of you might want to go for that, but many of us would rather steer clear! Instead, choose those earthier colors (traditionally thought of as fall colors), including:

• Mustard yellow
• Orange
• Dark brown
• Khaki green or olive green
• Burgundy or merlot reds

Again, warm undertones can also default to classic black.

Colors to avoid include bright white (opt for a warmer white if you want to wear white) and those candy-colored pastels which tend to have blue undertones. If you want to go lighter, choose very peachy, warm pastels.

If you have a warm skin tone and darker skin, you can definitely go for lighter shades without worrying about them blending into your skin tone. However, as mentioned, avoid candy-colored pastels and instead go for hues with more of an earthy, warm undertone. These include:

• Warm whites and beiges
• Peachy pinks
• Corals
• Sage greens
• Soft lemon hues

And, yet again, you can always wear black! Check out these great Knix Swimwear options. 

What About Patterns?

You’ll generally find most patterns stick within these color families (indeed, you can learn more about what shades go with cool and warm tones by looking at combinations of colors in patterns. If you’re unsure, pick the one dominant color in the pattern (usually the one that hits your eye first) and identify which family this shade sits in.

What About Neutral Skin Tones?

If you feel like you check boxes on both sides of the cool and warm skin divide, or that your closet is full of shades from all of these color families that suit you, then lucky you! It’s likely that your skin tone is pretty neutral, and you can choose whatever you want!!

That said, we seriously think that rule applies to everyone. If you truly love a certain color and feel great wearing it, don’t let some pesky fashion rule stand in your way. Life’s too short!

*Important: No Matter What Your Skin Tone, Don’t Skip the SPF!

Hopefully, it goes without saying that SPF applies to everybody. Some skin tones burn more quickly than others, but the sun’s rays can do damage to any skin complexion. So whether you’re poolside or on the beach, slather on that SPF and preserve your natural beauty and health. And don’t forget to reapply throughout the day or after a dip!

Related: How to look good in a swimsuit 

Written by Jane Flanagan — Updated on March 5, 2023.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

At Knix, we don’t differentiate between styles and sizes. All our swimsuits range from XS to XXXXL and are designed to be comfortable, flattering and provide style options to all kinds of bodies! So if you're looking for different size swimsuits, look no further.

Want to learn more about your options? Read on, or browse the swim collection here.

What to Look for in a Great Bathing Suit (No Matter What Your Size!)

It doesn’t matter what size you are; we all want similar things from our swimsuits: To feel confident and comfortable in our skin. Sometimes, we want to feel sexy or flirty. Other times, it’s all about performance; you want to be able to swim knowing everything will stay in place. 

Plus-size designs often just add extra inches everywhere, but body shapes are more complex than that. You can be plus-size but still have a small bust or a short torso. You might carry more weight on your bottom half or your top half. So it’s not just about the swimsuit going up to your size; it’s also about how it fits your body.

While one swimsuit may not offer all those things, you should be able to find one that gives you what you’re looking for. Here are some things we look for in our swimsuits.

Plus Size Bathing Suits in a Range of Styles!

There’s nothing more devastating than finding a style of clothing that you love and then realizing that it maxes out at size 12. 

While things have improved a lot in the world of plus-size bathing suits, there are lots of brands out there that throw out one or two token styles for their plus-size customers. 

But you shouldn’t feel like you have any less choice than any other shopper when shopping for the right size swimwear. So look for (and support) brands that support women of ALL sizes, with a range of options that anybody can wear, including plus size.

Popular styles you should be able to find include:

• Classic styles like one-piece swimsuits or maillots
• Different size bikinis
• High waist bikini with tummy control
• Swim shorts or full coverage swim bottoms
• so much more!

An Assortment of Colors and Patterns in Extended Sizes

A lot of brands seem to assume that plus-size women want to “disappear” and cover--up as much as possible (hello, the swim dress!), often assuming you’ll only want to wear basic black (though black is a legit choice, it shouldn’t be your only choice.) 

Body positivity is not at the fore of their designs. We believe all bodies should be celebrated (and, yes, we believe all bodies are beautiful too), so color and pattern and flirty details and sexy details are just as at home on XXXXL plus size swimwear as they are on XS swimsuits. 

Popular patterns and stylish prints this season include animal print, floral print, bold statement graphic designs, and more.

People who wear larger plus size swimwear sometimes feel more confident in neutral or dark colors. And if that’s where you’re at, by all means, make the choice that makes you feel good. However, we believe you should be loud and proud in your skin no matter what your size, so if you’re drawn to certain colors or loud patterns or cute designs, don’t let your size dictate what you should wear!

If you’re wondering what will be more flattering to your skin tone, check out this article which dives into the most flattering colors for cool and warm-toned skin. But ultimately, when it comes to color, follow your heart.

Adjustable Straps Will Help if Your Torso is Long or Short

If the straps (either neck or shoulder) of your bathing suit are adjustable, you’ll be able to better fit the swimsuit to your torso and tighten it over time as it loses some of its elasticity. This will help you feel more held in and supported, as well as be able to adjust the suit to better fit you overall.

Wider Straps Will Give You More Support

Also, look for wide straps if you need a little more bust support. String or tie straps may dig into the skin and become uncomfortable if they’re supporting a larger chest.

Molded Cups Also Offer Support

Many swimsuits now offer “secret” support with built-in wireless bras and molded cups. These are great for keeping you in place and minimizing bounce and movement while also giving you the silhouette you desire.

Remember, You Can Mix & Match Separate Bikini Sizes

One-piece swimsuits tend to assume that we all have a uniform silhouette. But sometimes, weight can be concentrated around the bust or around the tummy/booty. With two-piece sets (or bikinis) you can choose a different top and bottom and mix and match. This means you can separately think about what’s flattering and comfortable on your bottom half versus what’s supportive on your top. It also allows you to change your look with more combinations of styles and colors of pieces.

Periods, Light Bladder Leaks? Consider Leakproof Swimwear

Leakproof swimwear looks on the outside like a regular swimsuit. It comes in different styles (one-piece, bikinis, and everything in between) and colors. But it has one key difference from regular swimwear: It is designed to absorb and hold period blood as an alternative to traditional period protection, like tampons. It can also absorb urine for those who experience light bladder leaks.

How Does Leakproof Swimwear Work?

The layered fabric in the gusset of period swimwear traps and absorbs menstrual blood or urine, so it doesn't leak in the water (or on land!) Our Swimwear features the same Leakproof Technology as our Period Underwear with an additional thin layer of waterproof material for extra protection.

The inner layers absorb the blood and trap it, so there's no leakage when you swim. When it goes in the laundry with detergent, it releases through the top layer— leaving your swim fresh and clean for tomorrow's laps.

Forget Swim Dresses: Discover The Knix Swimwear Collection

If you feel like the world is trying to coax you into a swim dress or swim skirt, run don’t walk to a different retailer. Here are some plus-size swimwear options to suit every need and hang-up.

You Want Support for a Larger Bust

If you have a larger bust, you may need a swimsuit that offers support so that movement is minimized and you feel stable and snug by the pool or on the beach.

Features to look for include:

• Wide straps
• Adjustable straps
• Built-in “invisible” support
• Underwire
• Full coverage cups

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Deep V One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Top: Sculpt Bandeau Bikini Top

You Want Butt Coverage

Speaking of areas we all have hang-ups about… Mine is my ass. I usually deal with it by covering it up. So I always look for swimsuits with full butt coverage and if I wear a two-piece, I love a boyshort style bottom. 

Pro-tip: Take a cue from your favorite style of underwear here. Odds are you’re wearing a style that you feel best in already, so just look for the swimsuit version of that style!

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Classic One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Bottoms: Full Coverage Bikini Swim Bottom

You Want to Accentuate Your Waist

If you’re the type of person who loves wearing a wide belt around a dress, you probably really like your waist. There are a few kinds of swimsuits that will help you accentuate that:

• Bikini: Obviously, a bikini literally shows your waist, letting your curves speak for themselves
• Wrap swimsuit: The tie at the waist will accentuate this area
• Waist cut-outs or color blocking: Can be placed strategically to accentuate or minimize areas.

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Side-Tie One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Bottom: Bikini Swim Bottom

You Want to “Disguise” Your Midriff

One of the most common areas we share anxiety about is our belly/midriff area. First, a reminder here that there’s nothing wrong with your body and, as long as you’re happy, you can wear any damn swimsuit you please.

But if your midriff bothers you, we want you to feel comfortable too, and a high waist with some tummy control can be your best friend. So here are some styles of bathing suits that will help:

• Swim suits with a ruched body
• High-waisted bikini bottoms
• Gentle compression or tummy control to hold you in 

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bottom: Ultra High Rise Bikini Swim Bottom

You Just Want a Streamlined, Non-Nonsense Look

Want a streamlined, no-muss no-fuss classic swimsuit? You’re looking for a classic maillot. These suits are usually completely unadorned with no visual breaks and a clean neckline and straight back. However, do look for details to give you the support you need, like an invisible built-in bra and/or adjustable straps.

Knix Best Bet One-Piece: Classic One Piece

You Like Cute Details...

Cute details are a nice way to express a little personality with your suit. Maybe you want the sexy edginess of a strategically placed cut-out. Or perhaps you prefer the flirty femininity of frills. 

Of course, color can come into play here, too, as can pattern. If you want to stand out in a sea of plain black maillots, there are tonnes of good options. Look out for:

• Cut out details
• Strategically placed frills
• Details like zippers and ties
• Scalloped edging
• Color and pattern

Knix Best Bet One-Piece: Side-Tie One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece: Sculpt Bandeau Bikini Top

Tips For Swimsuit Sizing (No Matter What Brand)

So, no matter what brand you’re shopping from, here are some general pointers:

Start With Your Regular Size

Swimsuits, like most garments with a lot of stretch, often look misleadingly small on the hanger. So don’t judge too much based on their appearance on the hanger. The best jumping-off point is the size you typically take. For swimsuits, this may be indicated as small/medium/large, etc., or in traditional sizes like size 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, etc. You may also find brands that label their sizes, like your bra size or cup size. While approaches to sizing are rarely standard across brands, and most of us go up and down across brands, this is the best place to start...

Consult the Size Chart & Whip Out Your Tape Measure

To get a clearer understanding of the sizes, pull up the size charts on the website you’re on. Most websites will have a size chart link in the product details of individual items.

Depending on the retailer, the size charts might include measurements for bust/underbust, waist, hips, and torso length. Measurements may be in inches or centimeters. 

To take accurate measurements, it’s best to use a fabric (or seamstress) measurement tape and take the following measurements:

• Bust: To get this measurement, measure over the fullest part of your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Underbust: This measurement will especially matter for underwire swimsuits or bikini tops. To get this measurement, measure directly under your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Waist: This is the measurement around the narrowest part of your natural waistline.
• Hips: This is the measurement around the fullest part of your hip before the thigh begins to narrow. 
• Torso length: Torso length is important for swimsuits. You get this measurement by taking a measurement from your shoulder to the crotch at a measurement.

Compare the measurements you come up with with the size charge. Remember to read the size charts carefully to make sure you’re adhering to any particular measurement directions.

If You’re Between Two Bathing Suit Sizes, Go Small

Swimsuits usually have a lot of elastication and stretch over time and when wet, so if you’re right between two sizes, you’re likely safe going small. 

That said, going for a smaller swimsuit size shouldn’t push you into an uncomfortable experience. So if you notice any uncomfortable compression or red marks on your skin or find the suit difficult to get on and off, it’s likely you’ve gone too small.

Order Multiple Sizes (Checking Returns Policy)

Note: Different retailers will have different return policies (especially when items are on sale), so check that before trying this tip. Knix Swimwear is eligible for a return or exchange within 30 days of delivery and with the original sanitary strip and tags attached.

But assuming returns are easy, you might consider ordering multiple sizes (your size and the sizes up and down from it), so you can try on in the comfort of your home. Once you’re confident you’ve found the right size, return the others.

Try Bathing Suits at Home

Always try on your new swimsuit at home (even if you already tried it on in-store). There’s something about being at home, where you’re most comfortable, and trying on clothes that will give you a better sense of whether items fit correctly and are comfortable.

You’re familiar with the lighting and with your own mirrors. Plus, you’ll feel less rushed and even get a second opinion if you want one. 

Two-Pieces Let You Pick Two Sizes

Two pieces have the advantage of being sold as two separate parts, which means you can order swim tops and swim bottoms in different size of swimsuits. If your body is two different sizes (e.g., you have a full bust but narrow hips, or wide hips and a small chest), this may be an easier option than a one-piece which is designed for more uniform sizing.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

But if you’re confused about the difference between leggings and jeans, we’ll help with that, and we’ll also tell you what the hell jeggings are! Read on.

What Are Leggings? They’re Basically Pull-On Skin-Tight Bottoms

Leggings (sometimes called yoga pants) are opaque (not see-through) skin-tight pants. They usually pull on and off with no zipper or other fastening. While they may have pockets and other accents, most are unadorned with any pockets or seams beyond the seam that runs around the inner legs.

Leggings are usually made of cotton and lycra, though they now come in an astonishing range of finishes (shiny, matt), lengths (ankle and cropped), colors, cuts, and even materials (from plain cotton to denim-looking “jeggings” and even leather). 

For the most part, though, when people say ‘leggings,’ they’re thinking about a classic black neutral piece. These basic black leggings are usually worn and sold as everyday clothing items, ideal for layering under dresses and sweaters and often feature an elastic waist.  However, leggings can also include certain styles of leather pants or faux leather leggings.

What Are Jeans? Denim Fabric Is a Key Difference

Some leggings are so convincing that it’s easy to mistake them for skinny jeans. But while leggings (particularly jeggings) and skinny jeans may be designed to imitate each other, they are different clothing items.

The key difference is the material: As we all know, jeans are made out of denim, which is a cotton product. While jeans may also have stretch, the bulk of their composition is always cotton denim. Leggings and jeggings, on the other hand, are made of cotton-spandex fabric or knit polyester/cotton/spandex/elastane blends. 

Because leggings and jeggings have more stretch than jeans (even jeans with stretch), they may hold their shape better over time. While jeans can become baggy (especially in the ass) and never regain their shape even after washing, jeggings will stay tight-fitting.

Okay, But WTH Are Jeggings?! They're Jean Leggings!

Jeggings are leggings that are designed to resemble skinny jeans. Jean leggings (or jeggings) may be made of thicker material than yoga pants or athletic leggings. But jean leggings are still basically pull-on, skin-tight pants, just like leggings.

The only difference between your everyday cotton leggings and jeggings (or jean leggings) is that jeggings are really printed leggings designed to look like regular jeans (note: they are not made of denim.) This look can be very convincing, and jeggings can also come with the appearance of different denim washes and colors, just like skinny jeans.

Jeggings are like leggings and pull-on. However, unlike leggings, in their attempt to ‘imitate’ jeans, they may have fake pockets and even print the stitching you expect to see around the waistband, even belt loops and the zippers on jeans.

What’s Better: Leggings or Skinny Jeans?

Because of their material and composition, jeggings may be more comfortable than skinny jeans to a lot of people. Of course, it also depends on the style, cut, and size of the jeans you’re wearing. There are comfortable jeans out there—and uncomfortable leggings! But, in general, comfort is the main reason people love leggings and jeggings over other kinds of tight-fitting pants, including skinny jeans.

Why Some Prefer Jeans

Skinny jeans are a classic wardrobe staple for very good reasons. They’re durable, warm, and versatile. Of course, jeans, including skinny jeans, come in a variety of cuts and denim finishes (dyes and washes like acid-washed denim.) But they’re also versatile in the sense that they can dress up and down—offering full wardrobe flexibility.

For some people, leggings expose too much of every lump and bump. They may prefer the modesty offered by a thicker material and a less skin-tight look, and skinny jeans can offer just that. Or they may be adhering to a dress code at work, for example.

They may also have had some bad experiences with leggings: Leggings often have a bad reputation because some of them are see-through (or they can become see-through after many wearings.) 

Often, cheaper leggings or yoga pants will become transparent after a few washes. Or they will lose their shape, becoming baggy in the ass or legs. You may also find the color fades, so your perfect black leggings soon become a sad grey version of themselves.

And so, skinny jeans may seem like an altogether more robust and durable option. Not to mention, the thicker material of skinny jeans can offer greater warmth in colder weather, while the fact denim is a cotton-based fabric means jeans are also more breathable.

How to Wear Leggings, Jeggings or Skinny Jeans

Both leggings and jeggings are usually skin-tight, but it is totally possible to wear them and still cover any area you may not want to be exposed to. Basically, this is your call… we’re no fashion police! But here are some suggestions of how leggings, tight jeans, or skinny jeans are commonly styled and worn.

Wear Jeggings or Skinny Jeans or Leggings Styled With a Tunic

Tunics are usually way too short to be a dress, too long to be considered a regular top. To complicate things further, they’re often also pretty boxy in their cut; some would say shapeless. But a tunic can come alive when worn with leggings, jeggings, or tight jeans. They’ll help balance out the volume on top and give you a flattering silhouette.

...Or a Long Shirt

If you love an oversized shirt (whether it’s a crisp, white classic shirt or a soft, cozy flannel number), you’ll find a perfect pairing in leggings or jeggings. If you want to dress up the look, you could opt for leather (or leather-look) leggings. That crisp white shirt legging combo can take on a whole different look if you accessorize it. Basically, it’s your perfect neutral palette.

A Short Dress

Ever buy a short dress and get it home and find it’s just a bit *too* short? Or struggle to find the right day to wear your favorite short dress because you’ll be running around, or it’s windy, or you want to ride your bike? The sad result can be an item you loved on the hanger languishing at the back of your closet. Leggings to the rescue! Throw on a pair of leggings beneath that dress and give it another chance! Bike rides, sudden breezes, and bending over will be no issue for you!

Try Leggings and Skinny Jeans With Knee High Boots and a Sweater

One of my personal favorite combinations is leggings or jeggings with knee-high boots (or over-the-knee boots)  and an oversized sweater. The leggings really do just fade into the background here, and I always find this look makes me appear taller too. This look always feels easy, cozy, and still pulled together.

Both Leggings and Skinny Jeans Also Look Great With All Kinds of Jackets...

If you love the simple combo of leggings and a tee or simple sweater, shake that look up with different jackets. The combination will take on completely different looks when you pair it with a blazer, as opposed to a jean jacket. Or with a biker leather jacket, compared to a cargo jacket.

Or With Tees and Trainers

Sometimes, it’s the simple things… the right pair of jeans or leggings, a perfect white t-shirt, a great pair of sneakers, and you’ve got a great look. Top it off with a crossbody purse and a pair of sunglasses, and you’ll have a look that’s timeless and ageless, with clean lines for an always chic look.

Basically, You Can Wear Leggings, Jeggings, or Skinny Jeans Any Way You Like!!

Truth be told, you’ll probably come up with lots of other ways of wearing jeggings and leggings! There’s no wrong way, really. As long as the leggings fit you well and are opaque, you can style them any which way you want. The key is that you’re happy and confident in the clothes you wear, not that anybody else approves of them!

Check Out Knix Leggings!

If you’re on the hunt for great basic leggings, look no further!

Our leggings come in seasonal colors, but basic black is by far the most popular and versatile. Our seamless leggings put comfort first. They’re made with 360-knit BlissFit™ Fabric for body-hugging smoothness that moves with your body.

Plus, when it comes to compression, we’re here to support (yep, pun intended). A ribbed waistband for gentle compression that smooths and holds your tummy. 

Finally, they’re as versatile as they come. Perfect for lounging, for layering with whatever ensemble you’re putting together, and, of course, as activewear. The flattering high-rise yoga pants style is easy to style and easy to wear inside and outside.

The Good News: You Don’t *Really* Need to Choose!

As we said at the very start, the great news here is that you really don’t have to choose between jeans and leggings in a “forever” kind of way. Both are staples in the fashion world and in our hearts. We definitely rock both, and there are no hard and fast rules why you should choose one over the other.

So do yourself and your closet a favor and invest in both: The right fit and quality materials are worth spending more on for any kind of wardrobe staple like this because these garments will be the workhorses of your wardrobe. And once you find a style you love, buy multiples! There’s nothing worse than your favorite basics being discontinued!!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

And if your favorite pair of leggings has gradually become baggy, or if you’ve lost some weight and your leggings aren’t exactly fitting you like a second skin, you may wonder if it’s possible to shrink your leggings back to that ideal fit. But you may find it’s simply easier to go out and invest in a new pair of leggings.

That said, there are some tactics you can try to shrink leggings (though you might end up causing other kinds of damage in the process.) But first, let’s seek to understand why leggings get baggy in the first place.

Why Your Leggings Get Baggy Over Time

Leggings have a lot of elastic (generally, they are made of cotton or poly blends with spandex or lycra). It’s this stretch that makes them cling to your body, giving that ‘second skin’ appearance. It's also why they appear much smaller on the hanger than they do on your body.

However, all elasticated garments will stretch gradually over time.

In part, this is caused by general wear. Every time you put on your leggings you stretch them, and when you launder them, they can be stretched in the machine (especially if you wash them in hot water, or even warm water), or by hanging while they’re wet. When you move about in them (doing yoga, running or just walking) you are stretching specific areas, like the butt and knees.

When they’re new, leggings bounce back after they’re worn. But over time those elastics start to relax into their stretched shape instead of contracting back to their original shape. (Picture it just like a rubber band that relaxes over time.)

This doesn’t just happen to leggings. Any garments with stretch, including underwear, bras, swimsuits, even denim jeans with stretch, get looser over time because of this. And whether your leggings are cotton leggings, nylon leggings or spandex leggings - they all have stretch.

This explains why shop assistants will often recommend you purchase the item on the smaller side if you’re between sizes. They will ultimately stretch to fit you and last you longer (versus a bigger size which will get too baggy too quickly).

The bagginess is most likely to show around the bottom and knees at first, in part because of the amount of stretch and motion these areas undergo. But over time, they’ll become loose all over. As mentioned, this is pretty unavoidable in the long run — just part of the lifespan of these types of garments. How long you get will depend on:

1. How often you wear the leggings 
2. The care you take of them between wears

Shrinkage is a lot less common than stretching when it comes to elasticated garments. But it’s not unheard of.

How Should Your Leggings Fit?

What should you expect when you’re wearing leggings or shopping for new ones?

Leggings Fit Too Big: The Telltale Signs

On the flipside, if your legging fit is too big, you’ll notice the following:

• They slide down. One of the biggest reasons leggings can slide down is because they’re too big for you. Jump around in the changing room and make sure they’re fitting you snugly.
• They’re baggy. Leggings should be second-skin tight. This means no wrinkles or bagginess. If the leggings hang loose away from your body, they’re not tight enough and you’ve probably gone too big.
• They don’t feel like a hug. Leggings (especially leggings with compression) should give you a feeling of snug security, or be gently tight. If they just feel ‘there’ but there’s no snugness, they’re probably too big. Remember that they’ll stretch more over time (with wearing and washing etc.) so definitely look for snug to begin with.

Leggings Fit Too Small: Here’s Your Biggest Clue

When you wear leggings, there are 3 immediate signs that will tell you the fit is too small for you and you need to size up:

1. They’re hard to get on. You can’t slide them on without a lot of painstaking wriggling and shimmying. Putting on leggings shouldn’t be like putting on Spanx; they should go on relatively smoothly. 
2. They fit so tight, they dig in around the waist. Your leggings shouldn’t leave you with red marks around the waist, or creating a "muffin top". They should sit snugly, but comfortably, like a car seatbelt.
3. They become transparent. Leggings, workout leggings and yoga pants are not supposed to be transparent. One reason they can become transparent is they’re too tight and the fabric is being stretched too thin.

But… How to Shrink Leggings?

In general, we would advise you to simply buy a new pair of leggings rather than try to shrink an existing pair. This is because the tactics used to shrink leggings can cause other kinds of damage. So you’re better off donating those old leggings and upgrading to a new pair. 

Still, you might persistently wonder how to shrink leggings. If you're trying to deliberately shrink your leggings, you may be tempted to put them through an extra long hot wash (boiling water) and then toss them in the dryer on a hot setting. But, as mentioned, you’ll probably do more harm than good with these methods. Plus, any results will be short-lived.

Why Is It Such a Mistake to Try to Shrink Leggings? 

You may have come here wanting to know how to shrink leggings. However, hopefully we can convince you that shrinking leggings with high heat won't really help you. The shrinking process can do more harm than good, and boiling water combined with high heat may cause permanent damage to any of the following leggings:

• Cotton leggings
• Spandex leggings
• Lycra leggings
• Nylon leggings

1. Elastic Breaks Under High Heat

Heat can cause fabrics to shrink, but it can also cause elastic to snap. This applies to heat from hot water in the washing machine and from the dryer too. Ever noticed little broken pieces of elastic on the surface of a garment? This ‘elastic stubble’ appears when elastic snaps, and it only means your item will become even looser.

2. Leggings Lose Their Opaqueness

If your leggings shrink and you stretch them again when you wear them, they may start to become transparent. Leggings should NEVER be see-through; they should be completely opaque. But old leggings can start to become translucent when they haven’t been properly cared for, or when they’ve been worn threadbare.

3. They May Not Shrink in Ways You Like

It’s unlikely that your leggings are equally loose all over. Maybe they’re loose around the butt or knees, but fit perfectly on the waist. Problem is, your shrinking process won't just target those specific areas.

If you're shrinking leggings through a hot water washing machine cycle, or a dryer cycle, you’re not able to target specific areas of the garment. You might find the waist you didn’t want to change shrinks too much. Meanwhile, the baggy bottom and knees may still be baggy.

The point is: You’ll be lucky if you get the specific kind of shrinkage you want. Odds are you’ll end up with something just as ill-fitting, but in new ways.

Skip the Hacks: Invest in a Great Pair of Workout Leggings

Knix leggings come in seasonal colors, but basic black is by far the most popular and versatile. Our seamless leggings put comfort first. They’re made with 360-knit BlissFit™ Fabric for body-hugging smoothness that moves with your body.

Plus, when it comes to compression, we’re here to support (yep, pun intended). A ribbed waistband for gentle compression that smooths and holds your tummy is everything you could want. 

Finally, they’re as versatile as they come. Perfect for lounging, for layering with whatever ensemble you’re putting together and, of course, as activewear. The flattering high rise silhouette is easy to style and easy to wear inside and outside.

If you’re lucky enough to own Knix leggings, here are our official guidelines for washing Knix leggings:

• Machine wash cold (not medium heat or high heat)
• Do not bleach
• Do not iron
• Do not dry clean
• Lay flat to dry

How You Should *Really* Care for Your Leggings

When you do decide it’s time to invest in new leggings, check out these guidelines for how leggings should fit. And when you do find that new, perfect pair, take care of them.

Here are some pointers:

Wash Them as Frequently as Underwear 

Leggings are worn right next to the skin (and the groin) so they absorb EVERYTHING. What’s more, workout or gym leggings are designed specifically to be moisture wicking. Those damp, sweaty fabrics are a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and odor, which can quickly turn yucky.

There are no hard rules about how many wears you should get out of your leggings. But I usually think about it the same way I think about my bras: If I work up a sweat, 1 wear and it gets washed. If I’m pretty sedentary, 3 wears is fine.

Also, don’t let a stale, sweaty garment just sit in your laundry hamper or workout bag for a week. Bacteria can breed and odor can worsen, so even a quick hand-wash can be a great short-term solution.

A Cool Washing Machine Cycle Is Best (No Hot Water)

Hot washing machine cycles are great for tough fabrics that can really take it, and need a very thorough clean. But most garments with stretch, like leggings and yoga pants, need a gentler touch. 

This is because elastics can break under high washing machine temperatures — and leggings have A LOT of stretch. As well, it could just make your beloved leggings look a little grubby overall. So stick with the cold water wash cycle for your leggings and other items with a lot of stretch (like sports bras and wireless bras).

Protect Them From Getting Tangled in the Washing Machine

You don’t want your leggings to get stretched in the washing machine. So try to wash leggings with items of a similar weight (t-shirts, underwear etc.) If you do wash them with larger or heavier items (bedding, towels or sweaters), consider popping them in a mesh bag so they don’t get knotted up with these items.

Choose a Gentle Detergent

Because leggings are skin tight, harsh cleaners can leave residue that really irritates the skin. I tend to treat leggings like lingerie and use a more delicate detergent with them. Don’t use too much, either. It’s always tempting to think that adding more will make things cleaner. But adding more just means more residue.

Skip Fabric Softeners

Fabric softeners will leave a very noticeable residue on the top of your leggings. Not nice. This residue can also dull and discolor your leggings. If you use softener in your laundry, make sure you separate the items you want to use softener on from your synthetics before you pop them in the machine.

Lay Leggings on a Flat Surface to Air Dry

When clothing is wet, it weighs more. That means hanging leggings when they’re wet can stretch them out more. Instead, lay leggings on a flat surface to dry. You’ll be surprised how quickly leggings dry! 

Avoid the Dryer Completely (Even Medium Heat)

Drying machines are an absolute no-no when it comes to leggings. Instead opt for an air dry. Why? Because the heat of dryers can be detrimental to the elastic in your leggings. And once the elastic is gone, your leggings are finished.

Think Before You Shrink

If you're at the point where you need to shrink an existing pair of leggings, it may actually be a sign to move on from them entirely. After all, you may do more harm than good trying to shrink your beloved pair of leggings. Invest in a great, new pair of leggings instead!

Written by Jane Flanagan — Updated on March 5, 2023.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Let’s face it: We’ve all been in the situation where we saw somebody and realized their leggings were completely see-through. It can be the worst nightmare to imagine you’re that person. So, let’s make sure that doesn’t happen!

First: Your Leggings Shouldn’t Ever Be See Through

Okay, let’s put this one to rest right from the get-go: Leggings or yoga pants should NOT be see-through.

Leggings often have a bad reputation because some of them are see-through (or they can become see-through after many wearings). Beware the cheapest legging option: Often cheaper leggings or yoga pants will become transparent after a few washes. Or they will lose their shape, becoming baggy in the ass or legs. You may also find the color fades, so your perfect black leggings soon become a sad grey version of themselves.

So, if you want leggings that will hold their shape, color, and opaqueness, spend a little more. You’ll be the best judge here. But do try leggings on and keep an eye on them as they wash. Soon you’ll be able to separate the real deal from the pretenders.

Unlike tights, leggings should be completely opaque.

Should You *Really* Worry About Visible Panty Lines?

This Guardian article by Zoe Williams, penned in 2018, claimed fear of a VPL (visible panty line) was on the decline. Elizabeth Day claims in You Magazine that ‘it’s my right to have a VPL.’ And based on my own observation of women in my neighborhood, women are no longer pretending they don’t wear panties. They’re there under jeans, leggings, and shorts.

Just as Carrie Bradshaw made it cool to show your bra, so it seems we’re becoming matter-of-fact about our undies.

Or are we? Because for every article hailing the demise of our VPL preoccupation, there are scores more roundups of the best seamless undies to avoid a VPL. So it seems, for some of us the VPL is still a thing.

So… this is really about YOU. If you’re comfortable rocking a VPL, do it. No shade here (indeed, I’m right there with you!) But if you prefer a smooth and seamless silhouette, we’re similarly not going to shame you. 

But know this: Regardless of where you stand on the VPL, you shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort.

Avoid These Styles of Knickers to Prevent a VPL

If you’re in the camp of people who are concerned about visible panty lines (VPL), there are definitely some styles of underwear to avoid. Generally, the VPL occurs from two areas of your underwear:

• The edge of the underwear that cuts across your buttocks
• The seam that runs horizontally across the gusset at the rear

Sometimes side seams can also play into a VPL.

So you want to avoid underwear that is going to make these edges and seams prominent. Given the infinite number of styles, brands, and materials of underwear, it is impossible to provide a comprehensive list of all underwear that will be problematic when it comes to a VPL. And there will be exceptions even to what follows. But, in general, I’d stay away from the following:

Classic Cotton Panties

Your classic cotton undies are usually made of thicker material (think t-shirt material) and have elasticated edges (perhaps with a little decorative detailing.) Because they’re made of thicker materials, the gusset seam can be bulky and quite visible, even under looser pants and jeans—but definitely under leggings.

So, if a VPL is a concern for you, stay away from those classic cotton briefs.

Bikini Cut

While bikini cut underwear is a popular choice (indeed, it’s one of our most popular style), the seam of the bikini style usually cuts slightly across the bottom rather than sitting along the crease of your bottom. This means that it can be a very visible line beneath silky or tight-fitting materials, including yoga pants and leggings.

‘Cheeky” Underwear

Similarly, cheeky underwear usually reveals a little more of your bum with an edge that cuts higher across the derriere. This means you will likely see the seam beneath sheer or skin-tight clothing, again including leggings.

That said, some bikini and cheeky style underwear can be made of whisper-thin seamless underwear materials. The good news is that many retailers will also include a 'no VPL,' 'seamfree,' or 'seamless underwear' label on such options.

Underwear with a Thick Gusset Seam

Regardless of the style of underwear, if the gusset seam is higher up towards the back of the underwear or is thicker, odds are it will be visible, especially if you’re doing forward bends.

The Best Underwear to Avoid a VPL Under Leggings

So, what is the best underwear to avoid the visible panty line? Here are some of our top picks.

Look for Underwear Labelled ‘Seamless Underwear’ or ‘Seam-Free’ or 'Invisible Underwear'

Many retailers and manufacturers understand the demand for seam-free underwear, and so they’ve labeled their products explicitly to call out these features. These labels might say: ‘seamless underwear,’ ‘seam-free,’ ‘No VPL,’ or 'no show panties.'

You might be surprised by the range of options (including styles that traditionally show a VPL, like the bikini style) that you’ll find in seamless varieties. Some may even include a pretty lace detail that you wouldn't expect in a seamless pair of underwear. 

That said, some labels are more trustworthy than others so before you overhaul your entire underwear drawer, try out one or two just to make sure they truly live up to those claims to rid you of pesky panty lines.

Wear Underwear in a Thong Style

The thong or G-string was the traditional underwear to wear if you wanted no VPL. Before today’s modern seam-free materials ever existed, the only way to really rid yourself of a VPL was to remove the bum covering altogether.  

Now thongs are a love-it or hate-it style of underwear. Some women find them excruciatingly uncomfortable, and others love the nearly nude feeling of wearing a thong. 

At Knix, we offer two styles of thong:

1. Essential Thong

The Essential Thong is seamless underwear that maximizes comfort and disappears under even the tightest of tights. Plus, the quick dry gusset and soft, breathable fabric will keep you cool and dry all day long.

• Sizes: XS to XXXXL
• Colors: 17 colors and patterns
• Value: Buy 3-5 Save 20%, Buy 6+ Save 30%

Here’s what one customer said: “Most comfortable thong I have ever owned. So soft and fits great. stays in place and seamless! Will definitely get more of these!”

2. Essential High Rise Thong

The Essential High Rise Thong offers the smoothing comfort of a high rise with the seamless look of a thong. The best of both worlds in your new favorite bottom.

• Sizes: XS to XXXXL
• Colors: 4 colors and patterns
• Buy 3-5 Save 20%, Buy 6+ Save 30%

Don’t take our word for it, here’s what one of our customers says: “These are perfect. I love the comfort of high rise but hate a panty line, so these are an amazing solution. Won’t be buying any other underwear but these from now on!”

Shortie Style Underwear

If you’re really not into thongs, no matter how comfortable other people say they are, don’t fret: you still have options. Full coverage shortie-style underwear can be surprisingly seamless under leggings, tight jeans, and silky skirts and dresses. 

Indeed, I would say it’s the absolute best underwear to wear all-around! Boyshorts work in completely the opposite way to thongs: By offering full coverage, the seams sit in the natural creases of your body, so are invisible under clothes.

Discover the Essential Boyshort

With Knix’s Essential Boyshort, you’ll slip into the best seamless underwear around that is designed to maximize comfort. Plus, the quick dry gusset and soft, breathable fabric will keep you cool and dry all day long.

The Essential Boyshort provides extra coverage through the hip and bum, and sits slightly higher than our bikini silhouette. Our fabric's stretchability means they'll relax perfectly to your size.

• Sizes: XS to XXXXL
• Colors: 27 colors and patterns

Wanna know what buyers think about wearing underwear like this? Here you go!

“Fit is extremely comfortable, and best of all, ladies, there are no Panty lines.”

“Love the boyshorts! I now have way more pairs than I actually need, but Knix keeps coming out with adorable colors and prints I can't say no to. They are super comfortable, fit well & no VPL.”

Choosing a Nude Shade Is Wise

Remember when we said leggings should absolutely NOT be see-through at the beginning? Well, this is true. Your leggings should be completely opaque.

That said, if you’ve had a bad experience in the past, you might feel a little paranoid about it happening all over again. If you’re concerned or insist on wearing leggings that are losing their opaqueness, one tip would be to wear nude underwear. This will mean your underwear is less obvious beneath them. You should choose the shade of nude that most closely matches your skin color. You could also opt for a boyshort style to protect your modesty.

On Your Period or Experience Light Bladder Leaks? Try Leakproof Underwear

If you’re working out while on your period (and you should, exercise has tremendous benefits if you’re experiencing PMS!), you may be worried about VPLs and also about leaks. 

Let’s face it: Most of us reach for our comfiest cotton granny panties during our periods. And if you have a heavy flow and experience regular leaks, the anxiety of working out in tight leggings may be enough to keep you on the couch.

Never fear: Those Knix underwear options we shared above also come in Leak resistant versions. This means they can absorb period blood. And you can rely on them completely or use them as back-up to tampons or menstrual cups.

And even if you're not on your period, the sweat displacing fabrics in our Leakproof collection are perfect to wear under leggings during that sweaty yoga class. Indeed, a lot of our customers tell us they love them for everyday wear, especially during the summer months when those sweat displacing materials help keep them cool. You can browse our full Leakproof collection here. 

If you’re wearing leggings and still concerned with VPL, we’d look at these styles:

1. Super Leakproof Boyshort

The Super Leakproof Boyshort - switch from relying on disposable products to wearing incredibly comfortable and machine-washable boyshort underwear that will protect you every day of your cycle!

These full coverage boyshorts provide extra coverage through the hip and bum and sit slightly higher than our bikini silhouette. The ultra-thin & absorbent gusset is 9” long, providing confident coverage in the front and behind. The fabric is designed to feel snug at first but relax with wash and wear for a perfect fit.

• Sizes: XS to XXXXL
• Colors: 18 colors and patterns

Here’s what our customers have to say:

“I LOVE these underwear and wear them as my regular underwear now, not just on my period. No underwear lines and they are a wonderful fit!”

“These underwear are so comfortable! They feel great and look great under clothes! I am hooked on Knix!”

2. Super Leakproof Thong

The Super Leakproof Thong - switch from relying on disposable products to wearing incredibly comfortable and machine-washable underwear.

The thong provides a mid-rise silhouette with minimal bum coverage. The ultra-thin & absorbent gusset is 8-9” long, providing confident coverage in the front and behind. The fabric is designed to feel snug at first but relax with wash and wear for a perfect fit.

• Sizes: XS to XXXXL
• Colors: 19 colors and patterns

What our customers say: “Finally I can wear leggings on my period without having to wrap a liner around my thong haha. Such an improvement, I am so comfortable in leggings and especially useful for the gym/working out”

So, What Underwear to Wear Under Leggings? You Have Lots of Options!

So, you have lots of amazing options when it comes to what underwear to wear under your workout leggings or yoga pants! Truly, there are no rules. If you don’t care about VPLs, rock your favorite undies. If you’re concerned about VPLs, your only choice isn’t a thong: You can find seamless undies in all kinds of styles!

And if you experience crotch sweat (very common and normal when you’re working out) or light bladder leaks, or you’re on your period, you can even try leakproof undies. 

If you’re concerned about your leggings not being fully opaque, stick with your natural ‘nude’ shade so that your underwear isn’t visible if your leggings aren’t completely opaque. But that might also be a sign that it’s time to shop for new leggings!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

• Swimsuits
• Bikinis
• Trunks
• Speedos
• Burkini
• Rashguard
• Wetsuit
• Etc.

When you’re shopping online, you might find this category labeled “Beachwear” or simply “Swim” on the website navigation. Find out more about swimwear vs swimsuit

What Are Swimsuits?

A swimsuit usually describes a one-piece swimsuit. Some use “one-piece” as shorthand for a one-piece swimsuit. And in different regions, you might encounter different terms (listed above in the table). They include:

• Swimming Togs
• Swimming Costume
• Bathing Suit
• Bathers
• Cossie

Swimsuits also include more specific design styles, like monokinis, burkinis, and rashguards.

Again, depending on the retailer site you’re on, sometimes these will be broken out as a sub-category, and sometimes items will just be tucked in. It usually depends on how much merchandise and demand the retailer encounters for specific types of designs.

If a swimsuit is the only kind of swimwear you normally wear, you might use ‘swimsuit’ and ‘swimwear’ interchangeably since - for you - they’re one and the same. If you’re looking for some great swimwear options, check out the Knix collection of regular and period swimwear.

While a swimsuit is more than adequate for the amount of swimming most of us enjoy, those who spend prolonged periods of time in open water they may fall short for the following reasons:

• Warmth: Swimsuits are usually made of thin material and may not offer a lot of coverage, so they may allow heat to escape very quickly, especially if the water temperature is low
• Coverage or skin protection: Whether you’re motivated by modesty, sun protection, or sensitive skin (salt and abrasion from surf wax, etc.), swimsuits tend not to offer a lot of coverage or skin protection, especially for legs and arms. Of course, some styles of swimsuits are more modest than others.
• Buoyancy or swimming ability (especially for long-distance or open water swimming): If you’re not a strong swimmer or are swimming long distances (where fatigue becomes a reality), you may prefer a wetsuit as it offers more buoyancy in the water and may increase a feeling of protection.

Today, most swimsuits are manufactured from synthetic blends. Nylon and polyester are the most popular swimwear fabrics, though there are other bathing suit materials too. Knix swimsuits, for example, are made of primarily made of nylon (~85%) and spandex (~15%). You’ll find similar blends in swimwear fabric across most mainstream brands today. 

What Are Wetsuits?

Wetsuits are made of different, thicker materials than swimsuits. While a swimsuit is typically manufactured from a synthetic nylon or polyester blend, most wetsuits are made of neoprene.

It’s worth noting that the thickness of the neoprene varies. Thicker wetsuits are designed for colder water, and those thicknesses are usually explained with a classification system on the labels.

In terms of design, wetsuits offer a lot more coverage than swimsuits. The classic wetsuit covers you from neck to ankle (including sleeves.) However, there are versions of wetsuits that are sleeveless or have shorter legs.

Wetsuits are designed to be worn tight, giving a true second-skin feeling. However, they shouldn’t restrict movement too much and indeed may make you feel more sleek and streamlined in the water. In addition, they offer additional buoyancy and protection, which may help long-distance swimming, especially in open waters.

How Does a Wetsuit Work?

A lot of people assume that wetsuits keep you warm because they are waterproof. This is not the case; water will permeate your wetsuit. However, the thick neoprene material will trap that water next to your skin. And that trapped water will warm up to your body temperature, thereby creating a warm layer of insulation between your skin and the colder water outside your suit.

In order for this to work properly, it’s essential to wear the right size wetsuit. Too loose, and the water will not be trapped next to your skin, so you’ll just constantly recycle cold water between your wetsuit and body. Too tight, and there won’t be enough space for water to become trapped and warmed (not to mention, a too-tight wetsuit will restrict your movement.)

When you’re in water, you lose body heat almost 25x faster than when dry. So, staying warm has obvious (potentially life-saving) benefits, but it also helps slow down muscle fatigue which is important when you’re spending prolonged periods in the water doing activities that require strength and stamina (surfing, diving, open-water swimming.)

Is a Wetsuit Waterproof?

Wetsuits are not designed to be waterproof. Indeed, the job they do warming your body depends on them letting in water.

The idea that wetsuits are waterproof is a common misconception: Many assume that the point of a wetsuit is to keep you dry and, therefore, warm. But as we’ve seen, letting water in (in a controlled manner) is key to a wetsuit doing its job and keeping you warm. The water, warmed to body temperature, provides the all-important insulating layer.

FAQs About Swimming in a Wetsuit

Can You Swim in a Normal Wetsuit?

Yes, you can swim in a normal wetsuit. Though most of us fare just fine in a regular swimsuit, there are reasons you might consider switching to a wetsuit:

• You’re going to be swimming in colder water temperatures (whether that’s because of seasonality or geographic locations)
• You’ll be in the water for prolonged periods of time
• You want protection from chafing, sun and salt damage
• You’re not a strong swimmer and want some extra buoyancy
• You are a strong swimmer, but you’re going to be doing activities where fatigue will be a factor, so you could benefit from increased buoyancy

Certain sports tend to choose wetsuits. Surfing and diving are obvious examples. But triathletes, for example, also tend to wear a triathlon wetsuit for the swim leg of their competition (unless the water temperature is deemed to be too high). Wetsuits can also be worn for lap swimming/indoor swimming, especially when buoyancy and warmth are issues. People doing water rehab in a chlorinated pool may choose a wetsuit for these reasons too.

While you should have a good range of motion in a well-fitting wetsuit, it will probably feel more restrictive than a swimsuit. If the above factors don’t really apply to you, that would be one reason to stick with a swimsuit—it may take time to get used to swimming in a wetsuit. Other reasons to stick with a swimsuit include:

• Cost: There are, of course, expensive swimsuits. But, generally, swimsuits will be cheaper than wetsuits which are designed and built for athletic performance.
• Care: Swimsuits are smaller garments, so easy to rinse out in a sink after you’ve finished your activities. Wetsuits, on the other hand, are bulky, making them cumbersome to care for and store.
• Flexibility: Your swimsuit works as beachwear even when you’re not in the water. Indeed, many will even stretch their swimsuit into daywear after a day poolside or on the beach. A wetsuit? Not so flexible. Once you’re out of the water, that’s it.
• Ease Getting On and Off: This may be obvious, but it’s worth saying. Wetsuits cover you from neck to ankle in tight-fitting neoprene. So, of course, they’re going to take more wriggling to get in and out of. If quick transitions are your thing, a swimsuit might be a better choice.

Is a Wetsuit Better Than a Swimsuit When Swimming in a Cold Water Temperature?

Yes, a wetsuit will do a much better job keeping you warm in cold water temperatures. This is because when you first enter the water, the wetsuit fills with water. Your body heat warms that thin layer of water, which is trapped by the thick neoprene of the wetsuit, and that keeps you warm.

If you’re shopping for a wetsuit, it’s worth observing that they come in different thicknesses and are designed for different purposes. 

If you’re surfing in a tropical climate, for example, you may opt for a thinner construction wetsuit. But if you’re swimming in open waters in a more temperate climate or in winter, you may want thicker materials. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for help choosing the right wetsuit. If you’re shopping for a wetsuit for the first time, it might be worth doing it in person so an experienced salesperson can help you judge the right thickness and tightness.

Is a Wetsuit Better for Open Water Swimming?

It will depend on the temperature of the water. You can overheat in a wetsuit even when you're ocean swimming. In colder climates, outdoor swimmers (those doing channel swim, for example) and those competing in water sports often prefer neoprene wetsuits to keep their bodies warm.

But in general, open water or outdoor  swimmers like swimsuits for reasons that go beyond warmth, including:

• Coverage or skin protection: Whether you’re motivated by modesty, sun protection, or sensitive skin (salt and abrasion from surf wax, etc.), swimsuits tend not to offer a lot of coverage or skin protection, especially for legs and arms. Of course, some styles of swimsuits are more modest than others.
• Buoyancy or swimming ability (especially for long-distance or open water swimming): If you’re not a strong swimmer or are swimming long distances (where fatigue becomes a reality), you may prefer a wetsuit as it offers more buoyancy in the water and may increase a feeling of protection.

Will Movement Be Restricted When Swimming in a Wetsuit?

If your wetsuit fits you correctly, it should still allow you a full range of body movements, including those required for swimming.

However, there is no doubt that you will initially feel more restricted in a wetsuit compared to a swimsuit due to the amount of coverage. You might experience this more if you swim breaststroke. So expect to need some time to adjust.

If you’re training for an event of any kind, train in the gear you intend to compete in so that you are used to the garment, and it feels like a perfect second-skin fit. Once they're used to it, many swimmers may find that they can swim faster while wearing a wet suit.

The In-Between Solution: Thermal Swimsuits Retain More Body Heat Than Swimsuits But Are Less Restrictive Than Wetsuits

There are specialty swimsuits that address some of the warmth issues. These are almost like hybrid swimsuits/wetsuits. Like wet suits, they are made of thicker material that will offer more warmth. But in terms of cut, they’re closer to a swimsuit. Still, they tend to offer much more coverage than a regular swimsuit, covering the torso fully to the next, perhaps having sleeves and maybe even short legs. 

Thermal swimsuits then can offer a bit of a “Goldilocks” solution between a regular swimsuit and a full-on wetsuit, especially if you're not swimming in very cold water. They will not impede movement in the way a wetsuit may and will also allow you to stay cool in more variable temperatures where you might feel hot one moment and colder the next.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.