Beat the Heat with These 5 Must-Have Tommy John Essentials for Summer

Fellas, it’s time we get one thing straight: what’s holding you back in your workouts probably isn’t what you think.

You don’t need to switch to the hottest new gym, partner with a celebrity-grade personal trainer, or convince the guy next to you it’s time somebody else gets a pass at the chest press. Odds are, you just need to upgrade your boxer briefs.

What type of underwear should I wear to the gym, you ask? The answer comes in the form of a 360 stretch fabric style that can enhance your performance, help prevent bunch-ups, and keep you squeaky clean before (and after) you workout. Below, we take a look at how the 360 Sport athletic style of workout underwear hits (and sits) different from other workout gear.

3 Ways 360 Stretch Fabric Improves Every Sweat Session

Every gym-goer knows that choosing the wrong pair of underwear before working out can drive a wedge—or a wedgie—into your workout routine.

For the gym, the park, or even the yoga studio (especially the yoga studio), you need your drawers to be up to the physical challenges that come with every exercise. Here are 3 ways 360 stretch fabric has your back, even when it’s a leg day.

#1 It’s Designed With Gym-Ready Textiles

Athletic underwear needs to be gym material—literally.

360 stretch is the ideal gym buddy for you and your top drawer because it’s made from two textiles built for workout clothes. These include:

• Polyester – Polyester is an excellent fabric for gym underwear. While durable enough to withstand a strenuous workout, it’s also lightweight and breathable so that you stay cool even as you’re building heat.
• Spandex – You’d be hard-pressed to find a stretchier, more flexible fabric than spandex. As a textile that can stretch between five and seven times its original size, spandex is one of the few materials out there that can accommodate the full range of motion you’re going for during a workout session.

#2 It Won’t Bunch Up On You

When it comes to gym underwear, men’s sports briefs should work with you, rather than against you. The last thing you want while working out is a pair of exercise underwear that shifts, wads, and holes up in untoward places while you’re trying to set a new personal reps record. 

No matter how you like to stay active, 360 Stretch Fabric underwear styles boast two design elements that give you the support and flexibility you need while working out:

• They won’t ride up – Trunks riding up mid-workout can lead to a world of physical discomfort, from chafing thighs to skin rashes that persist long after you’ve exited the gym. 360 Stretch Fabric is flexible to conform to each move you make, without moving out of place as you do. 
• They maintain their shape – 360 Stretch Fabric underwear styles are built for resiliency. They won’t distract from your workout by rolling, bunching, or pinching—and they’re designed to keep their shape after every wash. While traditional undies can lose their fit after a few wears, 360 stretch fabric is built to snap back into action for as long as you’re doing the same.

#3 It Keeps You Fresh and Clean

While few things feel better than powering through a sweaty workout, tearing it up at the gym isn’t known to make you smell like a bed of daisies.

That said, it’s not perspiration itself that causes B.O.—that post-gym musk is the result of accumulated bacteria breaking down the sweat on your skin. This might not sound like a big deal, but bacteria can cause a variety of health issues, from skin rashes and chafing to more serious infections. 

Your gym underwear is a crucial top-drawer item that can help mitigate the reaction and keep you smelling fresh and feeling grime-free. 360 Stretch Fabric takes care of this pre-, during-, and post-workout in two key ways:

• 360 stretch fabric is antimicrobial, which means it discourages bacterial buildup that contributes to body odor while you break a sweat. 
• Not only does it put the kibosh on bacterial overgrowth, but 360 stretch fabric’s moisture-wicking properties. This means they conduct your sweat towards the outer layers of your gym shorts, helping you stay dry as you’re sweating it out. Translation: any bacteria that do take up residence in your drawers will have less sweat to break down—and, thus, lead to less odor in the long run.

Tommy John’s 360 Stretch Fabric: Underwear That Goes As Hard As You Do

At the core, your gym-ready workout bottoms should take care of three things to help you get the most bang from your workout: a comfortable design, an anti-bunch build, and bacteria-busting textiles. Still unsure which kind of athletic underwear is best for you? Check out the Athletic Underwear Guide to find out. 

With movement-ready flexibility with phenomenal support and fabric that keeps you dry while fighting odors, Tommy John’s 360 Stretch Fabric is up for whatever jumps, kicks, sprints, or lifts you throw its way. 

Ready to find the best underwear for your exercise needs? Take your workout and top drawer up a notch and find your fittest pair yet today.

Sources: 

Textile Property. What Is the Best Material for Activewear? 10 Fibers You Should Consider. https://www.textileproperty.com/best-material-for-activewear/ 

The Nation’s Health. Got body odor? Don’t sweat it. Follow these tips. https://www.thenationshealth.org/content/51/3/16

 Healthline. Treating and Preventing Thigh Chafing. https://www.healthline.com/health/thigh-chafing#treatment

From keeping a tight workout schedule to running your standard guy-about-town circuits (work, home, local taproom, repeat), every 21st-century man needs a pair of briefs that can keep up when life gets active. 

But sport briefs aren’t just for triathletes who push their body to the limit on a regular basis. Keeping this style of athletic underwear on hand is essential for eliminating every limitation your standard pair can thrust on you, from riding up to stealing your focus—whether it’s on a work stand-up or press-ups at the gym.

But before you say sayonara to your outmoded BVDS, you’ll want to ensure you pick a style of athletic briefs that can run circles around your underwear drawer. For that, no briefs can compare to Tommy John’s 360 Sports Briefs—and below, we detail seven reasons why.

7 Ways 360 Sport Briefs Take Your Top Drawer Up A Notch

Keeping an athletic style of underwear on hand is essential for ensuring you get the most out of your workout—and whatever else life has to throw your way.

From keeping the family jewels guarded to keeping bacteria out of the picture, here are 7 reasons why the Tommy John 360 Sport Briefs are your top drawer #1 wingman.

#1. The Stay-Put Waistband

If you’ve ever been interrupted by the tell-tale discomfort of a bunching, rolling, or drooping waistband, you know how frustrating unreliable gym underwear can be. Slippery waistbands can be a notorious distraction, whether you’re trying to focus on an AM workout or presenting to new clients on a Zoom call.

Thankfully, the 360 Sports Briefs are designed with a Stay-Put waistband that conforms to your body’s contours, without the pinching that can come with close-quarters garments. Instead, it’s designed to flex alongside you so that you can move and breathe easily—no adjustments necessary.

#2. 360 Stretch Fabric

Our 360 Sports Brief gets its name from the special stretch fabric we designed them with. 

We blended two of the best textiles active guys can wear to optimize your mobility, however you like to stay active. Our 360 power couple fabric includes:

• Polyester – Durable, lightweight, and naturally moisture-wicking, polyester and the gym go together like pecs and bench presses. What’s more, polyester is a breathable fabric, so you’re guaranteed to stay cool and dry. 
• Spandex – Spandex is one of the most flexible fabrics in existence, which is why it’s a staple textile in most activewear on the shelves today. Our spandex blend means you’ll have a full range of motion (that’s 360º, folks!) at your disposal, with no hindrances to limit your workout along the way.

Whether you’re biking to work, shooting hoops with your buddies, or walking the dog with your sig-O, 360 Stretch Fabric is built to move with you, no matter how you choose to move.

#3. Antimicrobial Fabric

Underwear is known to be a breeding ground for bacteria—even after they’ve exited the washing machine—and can lead to conditions like fungal jock itch if they aren’t made with a material that can keep them at bay.

Fortunately, our 360 Sport Briefs are antimicrobial, which means they can help inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as:

• Bacteria
• Fungus
• Parasites
• Viruses

By suiting up in 360 Sport Briefs, you’ll be putting your hygiene first and helping your underwear stay cleaner for the entirety of your briefs’ life cycle.

#4. Anti-Odor Fabric 

When we sweat, the bacteria and microbes that dwell in our skin break down our perspiration, leading to a foul odor emanating from our briefs. 360 Sports Briefs are made with two design principles in mind to help to keep you smelling fresher for longer:

• Breathability – Certain materials of underwear can trap moisture against your skin, which can spur on itchiness and unpleasant odors. As a polyester blend, the 360 Sport Brief is a powerhouse for encouraging air to circulate, allowing the moisture you generate during a workout to evaporate off of your skin and phase into the air.
• Moisture-wicking – 360 Sports Brief fabric is moisture-wicking, which helps your sweat migrate from the surface of your skin to the outer layers of your underwear fabric. This limits the amount of moisture bacteria have to feed on, helping you smell fresher in the interim before your drawers hit the wash.

#5. Extra Support Where You Need It Most 

Whether you’re doing squats, lifting weights, or just sprinting to the train at rush hour, you need a pair of briefs that provide enough support to skip any unnecessary jostling in tender places. 

For gentle but firm coverage where you need it most, reach for a 360 Sports Brief constructed with a Hammock Pouch. This design element is made from a lightweight Air Mesh fabric that gently grades with your movement while giving you and your boys adequate support.

#6. Quick-Draw Fly

Your body doesn’t care if you’re in the middle of a series of reps or closing in on the final mile of your run—when you’ve gotta go, you gotta go. But a too-close-for-comfort pair of underwear can make getting to the bathroom in a hurry almost as challenging as your workout itself. So, what’s a guy to do?

Tommy John’s 360 Sports Briefs are built to answer nature’s call in a pinch. With a seamless Quick Draw Fly integrated into each pair’s design, you can rely on this horizontal fly for quick and easy access (and relief) at a moment’s notice.

#7. Three Inseam Lengths To Choose From

Bid wedgies adieu and kiss underwear that rides up goodbye—the 360 Sport Briefs come in a diverse range of inseam lengths to fit your preference, outfit, and whatever activities are on the docket for the day.

Our three perfect-fit inseam lengths include:

• Sports trunks – The 360 Sports Trunk is our shortest 360 Sport Brief, featuring a 4” inseam. They fall to the middle of your thigh for increased mobility and friction-free functionality. 
• Mid-length boxer brief – Our mid-length boxer brief features a 6” inseam, making them a perfect option for the gym. Those six inches give you an ideal amount of coverage while eliminating any extra length that can show under the hem of your gym shorts. 
• Standard-length boxer brief – Guys who like a little more coverage can reach for our standard-length boxer brief, featuring an 8” inseam. It’s an excellent choice when containment is top-of-mind, or if you’re heading for colder weather and need an extra layer of warmth.

#8. The Price is Right 

Whether you’re paying monthly fees for a gym membership, buying top-of-the-line cross-trainers, or spending money on personal training sessions, the last thing you need to shell out on is the underwear you wear while you’re doing it all.

Fortunately, Tommy John’s 360 Sports Brief won’t cramp your wallet’s style while you’re in motion. With sleek designs, fuss-free wear, and premium textiles that keep their shape (and your personal hygiene) even after you’ve worn them to death, you won’t have to worry about replacing your underwear every other payday. 

Tommy Johns 360 Sport Briefs promise top quality at an affordable price—which means you can take them to the bank and the gym.

Why The Right Underwear Is A Workout Essential 

Our skivvies are the first garment we slip into at the start of the day. But can you skip the underwear and head straight for your gym shorts when you’re gearing up for a workout?

In short: it’s not advisable.

Yes, going with a standard pair of briefs can make you feel itchy, stuffy, or limited during a workout. But having a few sport-ready pairs on hand is essential for keeping you cozy and supported while you’re in motion—and for helping you ward off the following:

• Chafing – Combined with perspiration, tight fabric rubbing against your skin while you’re exercising can lead to chafing, irritation, and persistent rashes on your most sensitive areas. Underwear, especially boxer briefs, are built to protect your skin (especially the region between your thighs) from the friction that comes with working out.
• Infections – Without a pair of underwear on, moisture and sweat tend to cling to the inside of your gym shorts. And where there’s moisture, those microbes we mentioned are bound to thrive, leading to everything from fungal overgrowth to bacterial infections on your skin. When in doubt, choose a pair of sport briefs that can help move perspiration towards the air where it can evaporate (rather than clinging to your undergarments).
• Injury – If there’s just one reason to wear underwear while you’re exercising, it’s for the good of your lads down there. Unexpected movements, falls, and collisions can result in some painful injuries if you’ve left your nether regions unprotected, so always choose a gentle but firm pair of underwear that can keep your jewels safe on gym turf. 

Tommy John’s 360 Sports Briefs: Underwear For Active Guys 

No butts about it: from their moisture-wicking properties to our supportive Hammock Pouch, Tommy John’s 360 Sports Briefs are a top-shelf undergarment for guys looking for pure comfort with an active lifestyle.

Whether you’re searching for your new favorite active underwear or other anything-but-basic basics, shop Tommy John loungewear, activewear, socks, and more to reinvent how you get dressed, no matter where you’re going.

Sources: 

Cnet. Polyester, nylon, wool and more: The fabrics to look for in your workout clothes. https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/how-to-find-the-best-workout-clothes/# 

Mirror. Doctor claims we've all been washing our underwear 'wrong' for years. https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/doctor-claims-weve-been-washing-18324171

Study.com. Antimicrobial vs. Antibacterial. https://study.com/academy/lesson/antimicrobial-vs-antibacterial.html 

The Nation’s Health. Got body odor? Don’t sweat it. Follow these tips. https://www.thenationshealth.org/content/51/3/16

Cnet. Yes, You Should Wear Underwear While Working Out. https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/yes-you-should-you-wear-underwear-while-working-out/

If you’re an athlete or a hyper-active guy, choosing a pair of underwear that can support your lifestyle isn’t as simple as slipping into the same boxers or briefs you’d wear to the grocery store.

Whether you’re lifting weights at the gym, going for long-distance cycling excursions, or training for a marathon, men’s sport briefs are designed to help you surmount each athletic milestone—while preventing the odor, sweat, and discomfort that can hamstring you along the way.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything genuinely athletic underwear should bring to the table so that a mid-workout wedgie is the last thing you’ll run up against when your eyes are locked on the prize.

What Type of Underwear Should Male Athletes Wear?

However fond you are of your go-to tighty-whities, the truth is that they’re probably not ideal for keeping up with an athletic guy’s lifestyle. 

One of the most important design elements to look for in athletic styles of underwear is fabric, which can influence everything from how your underwear fits to how they (and you) perform. Ideally, your sports-ready workout underwear will excel in two key areas:

Moisture management – When you’re engaged in activities that elevate your heart rate, you’re bound to work up a sweat. And if you don’t want to have to peel off a pair of soggy briefs when you’re finished working out, your underwear needs to be moisture-wicking. Moisture-wicking refers to fabric that absorbs excess moisture from your body and disperses it to the outer layers of the fabric, where it has a better chance of evaporating. 

Breathability – Athletic underwear should promote air circulation because when sweat collects and is trapped by too-tight fabric, you’ll be able to feel it and smell it (chances are, the guy doing reps next to you will be able to as well). Lightweight, breathable fabric allows the hot air you work up to move out and away from your body so you don’t overheat. Additionally, this light-and-breezy feeling can help minimize excess sweating. 

So, which materials make for the best athletic underwear? When you’re shopping for a pair, look for the following fabrics:

Tommy John 360 Stretch Fabric is made from a blend of polyester and spandex, meaning every pair is guaranteed to keep you dry and moving. 

Tips for Choosing Underwear That Helps Prevent Odor and Sweat

Men’s athletic underwear needs to be more than just breathable and moisture-wicking. Yes, you want to stay cool and dry while you’re being active. But you also want a pair of underwear that’s going to do its part to keep you hygienic and smelling fresh by fighting bacteria. 

Look for an Antimicrobial Fabric

Because your underwear region is kept under wraps for most of the day, heat buildup and moisture can create a hot zone (not that kind of hot zone, sorry). A hot zone for microbes like bacteria. 

It’s essential to choose a style of underwear that can take these pesky organisms to the task—especially if you’re the kind of guy who’s constantly keeping in motion. That’s why the best athletic underwear are antimicrobial, which means they offer protection against bacteria and other microorganisms like fungi, viruses, and parasites. They can help prevent conditions caused by bacteria, such as:

• Skin rashes
• Chafing
• Jock itch
• Infections

Antimicrobial fabric is essentially fabric treated with a chemical agent. The chemical agent makes the fabric inhospitable to microbes. Almost any fabric can be made antimicrobial, but for athletes, you’ll tend to see polyester, spandex, and even vinyl fabrics getting the antimicrobial treatment. 

Check the label of any underwear you’re thinking of purchasing and look for antimicrobial labels to help keep unwanted microbes out.

Your Athletic Underwear Should Be Anti-Odor 

If you’re an athletic guy, you know as well as anyone how musty you can get when you’re active. It’s an inevitable outcome of pushing your body as hard as you do. Fortunately, the best athletic underwear anticipates this, providing anti-odor control so your drawers don’t reek when you get done with your workout.

To make sure you always smell your best, look for athletic underwear that’s…

• Been specially treated to fight odors
• Is made with moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or spandex

Spoiler alert: Tommy John’s 360 Stretch Fabric is formulated to fend off foul odors so your clothes can stay as fresh as your moves on the court, the field, or wherever you play.

Your Athletic Underwear Should Be Easy to Wash

The simplest way to ensure your gym underwear stays clean and fresh? 

Regular encounters with good old-fashioned soap and water. 

However, if that little tag on the back of your favorite pair of briefs has washing instructions longer than the Constitution, chances are, it’ll be too high maintenance for activewear. Check for simple instructions that are easy to toss in the wash with your other go-to clothes, or how to wash and care for your underwear. 

For The Best Athletic Underwear, Choose Tommy John’s 360 Sports Briefs 

When it comes to the contest to find the best athletic underwear, Tommy John’s 360 Sports Briefs are the odds-on favorite. Our sports briefs are designed with performance in mind, so you can rest assured you’re getting a pair of underwear that’s ready for all of your physical activities.

Our sports briefs are made with our special 360 Stretch Fabric, a lightweight, breathable material that promotes mobility and moisture management. Plus, they feature our special Stay-Put Waistband, so your briefs will go where you go without bunching, rolling, or pinching. 

At Tommy John, we believe that the clothes you wear have the power to change your life. Let us show you how. Shop today. 

Sources: 

Cnet.com. Polyester, Nylon, Wool, and More: The Fabrics to Look For In Your Workout Clothes. https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/how-to-find-the-best-workout-clothes/#

National Library of Health. Bacterial skin and soft tissue infections in adults: A review of their epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and site of care. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2605859/

Humans come in many different shapes and sizes. From very tall and athletic body types to shorter and more hourglass body types, we all have a specific silhouette. Not only are our bodies constantly changing, but so are fashion trends. Fashion is meant for your beautiful body to feel confident and great, not the other way around. 

With different sizes and an infinite color palette, understanding how to dress for your body type can be confusing. So we put together your one-stop-shop guide to dressing for your body type. 

How To Measure Your Body Type

The first order of business when it comes to how to dress for your body type is taking proper measurements. There is no need to host a guessing game when purchasing clothes. Grab your trusty measuring tape and best bud to help you measure your body type. Trust us — you’ll thank us in the long run once you know your actual measurements. 

Shoulder Measurements

Measuring your shoulder width is surprisingly one of the most difficult parts to size by yourself. Call on a family member or friend to help you measure this body part. Start off by placing the measuring tape at the top of one shoulder, wrapping it around to your other shoulder until you are back at your starting point. Make sure the measuring tape is slightly skimming the top portion of your shoulders. The tape should almost slip off to ensure the widest and accurate circumference of this part of your body. 

Bust Measurements

Measuring your chest can be a bust if you aren’t standing up straight. Properly measuring your bust involves wrapping your measuring tape around your entire back and across the fullest point of your breasts, which is typically the middle. The measurement of the widest or fullest point of your chest will help you if you are not sure how to dress for your body type. 

Waist Measurements

The struggle to find your pants size is real! Your pants size may differ from brand to brand, so it’s important to understand your measurements to gauge your starting point when shopping. 

When measuring your waist, start by wrapping your measuring tape around the smallest portion of your torso. This is usually around your belly button, but make sure it is the smallest section of your waist. 

Measuring tip: Make sure your measuring tape is lying flat on your back without any kinks or buckling to ensure accurate measurements. 

Hip Measurements

Hip hip, hooray! It’s time to measure your hips so you can dress for your body. Start off by placing the measuring tape below your hip bone at the fullest point. Next, wrap the measuring tape around your butt and bring it around town to the starting point. 

We know it can get a little tricky when wrapping the tape around the largest portion of your bum. To avoid running into any sticky situations, make sure you keep the tape flat for an accurate hip measurement. 

3 Main Body Types

While there are many different body types, William H. Sheldon, PhD, MD, established the classification of body types. This classification of body types is used primarily by doctors or nutritionists to build nutrition and fitness plans. 

The three main types of bodies defined by Dr. Sheldon are ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph. Each has its own characteristics to help you figure out which body type you fall into. 

1. Ectomorph Body Type 

The ectomorph body type is known for long and lean figures. It’s common for the ectomorph body type to have low body fat and not much in the muscle department. These individuals typically have a hard time gaining any weight, and are often flat-chested without any junk in the trunk. 

A few common characteristics of the ectomorph body type are: 

1. Narrow shoulders, hips, and chest 
2. Longer face with a higher forehead
3. Skinny, long arms and legs 

A few celebrities that fall into this category are Jim Parsons, Andrew Garfield, Taylor Swift, and Kendall Jenner. 

2. Mesomorph Body Type

Mesomorphs are the in-between body type: neither overweight nor underweight. The mesomorph body type has a higher muscle-to-fat ratio compared to ectomorph or endomorph. Individuals with more of a medium build would classify themselves as mesomorph. 

If you can eat whatever you want while maintaining your weight without much effort, your body type classification is most likely mesomorph. You are solid, strong, and more athletic than most. 

If you are not sure how to dress for your body type you might fall under the mesomorph body type simply because you are in between lean and muscular. 

Typical characteristics of the mesomorph body type are: 

1. Wide shoulders
2. Developed athletic build
3. An active metabolism that allows you to gain muscle mass while simultaneously losing weight 

Will Smith and Madonna are a few celebrities that fall under the category of mesomorphs. 

3. Endomorph Body Type

Do you love your shapely curves? You might classify your body type as an endomorph. People who fall under the endomorph body type carry a little more weight than average and gain weight easier, yet still have a lot of muscle. 

Some of the characteristics of endomorph body type are:

1. Round or pear-shaped bodies
2. Wide hips and shoulders
3. Higher body fat in arms and thighs

It’s important to note that endomorphs are not always overweight but they are fuller than the other body types.

Jonah Hill, Melissa McCarthy, or even the late Chris Farley can be described as endomorphs. In reality, some celebrities fall under the endomorph category that you might not even realize, like Marilyn Monroe. 

Female Body Shapes and How To Dress Them

How many times have you walked into a store, saw something you liked on the mannequin, and as soon as you try it on, you realize it looks completely different? We promise you are not the only one! Don’t feel bad if you’re unsure how to dress for your body type. All you need to do to fix this problem is to buy clothes for your unique body shape. 

The five different body types for women are round/apple, triangle/pear, inverted triangle, rectangle/athletic, and hourglass. Let’s dive deeper to help you find out how to best dress for your body type.   

Round or Apple

The round body shape, better known as the apple body shape, has larger characteristics than other shapes. If you have a larger upper body with little to no defined waistline, you most likely fall under the round or apple body shape. 

Women with an apple shape might have a harder time finding items that fit properly. Individuals with this type of female body typically purchase items that are oversized to compensate for larger chests. You no longer need to hide under those oversized layers. Focus on choosing a style of clothing that’s more proportionate.  

Round body types can accentuate their bust, shoulders, and even their neckline with peplum tops, V-necks, and dolman sleeves. You can also create more definition with wrap-style shirts. If you have an apple-shaped body, flared jeans and bootcut pants are excellent options to balance out your silhouette. If you are looking for the best dress for your body type, look for something that is off the shoulder or has an empire waist to draw more attention to your shoulders and legs. 

Fashion tip: Don’t be afraid to add a belt to accentuate your torso and cinch your waist. 

Tips for dressing a female round body:

1. Keep details on the top and lower third portion of your body. 
2. Opt for shirts or dresses that have a subtle V-neck and aren’t overly complicated or intricate. 
3. Try drawing attention to your bust and neck instead of your waist, arms, and shoulders for more body balance. 
4. Create outfits that balance out your proportions based on structure vs. weight. 
5. Find fabrics that sit close and comfortably to your body like silk or cotton. Make sure the material isn’t clinging to your skin. 
6. Guide wandering eyes to your favorite features with the use of lines, patterns, and colors. You can lengthen your body, add curves, and even emphasize certain body parts with this tactic. 

Triangle or Pear

The triangle or pear-shaped type of female body is described as having a wider bottom and narrow top. Women with hips and thighs that are wider than their shoulders fall under this body type umbrella. Some women might be confused whether they have a pear body shape or an hourglass due to similarities with defined hips. However, pear-shaped figures who have wider hips aren’t as busty as hourglass bodies. 

The important takeaway when you aren’t sure how to dress for your body type is to add equal balance between body parts. For example, triangle-shaped women might want to draw more attention to the upper half of their bodies due to having wider hips and thighs. It’s all about finding tops that hit the right part of your hips while adding more volume with wider necklines. 

Peplum, square, cowl, and boat neck tops are best for pear-shaped bodies to draw eyes upward and add more volume. Since triangle-shaped women have wider bottoms, try to slim out your figure with straight or even high-waisted jeans to help flatter your curves. The best dresses for pear-shaped women are A-line, fit-and-flare, off-the-shoulder, and even wrap dresses to highlight your favorite features. 

Tips for dressing a female triangle body:

1. Wear statement tops with embellished details to draw more attention to your upper body. Make sure to accentuate those shoulders!  
2. Padded and push-up bras can help you add more volume to your top half. 
3. When wearing statement tops, opt for darker or neutral tones for bottoms to slim out your pear-shaped body. 
4. Choose straight-legged pants or leggings to hug your legs, whereas flared pants will make your legs appear thicker. 
5. Add statement necklaces and drop earrings to bring more focus to your neckline. 

Inverted Triangle

If you have shoulders that are broad with slimmer hips, you most likely have an inverted triangle body shape type. You might also have a wider bust with narrow hips and waist. Inverted triangle women typically have straight hips, slim legs, either some or no waist definition, and muscular arms and legs. 

Women with the inverted triangle body type should create balance between wider shoulders and a slimmer bottom half. Adding emphasis to your lower body will help balance out your strong neckline and wide shoulders. 

Not sure what to wear for your type of female body? The best tops for inverted triangle bodies are peplum, scoop, crew, and V-necks. If you are looking for pants that complement your inverted body type, choose wide-leg, flared, straight, or even baggy boyfriend jeans to balance out your shape. A-line and fit-and-flare dresses will be your best friend because they already have built-in structure. 

Tips for dressing a female inverted triangle body:

1. Soften your shoulders and neckline with soft, drapey fabrics. 
2. Create the illusion of curves by adding more volume with bootcut, flared, and boyfriend jeans. 
3. Avoid defined necklines like boat-neck, halter, and cowl collars. 
4. Cropped jackets are also a great option to keep wandering eyes focused on your waist instead of your chest. 
5. Accentuate your lower body with statement heels or chunky booties. 

Rectangle or Athletic

Women who wear the same size on the top and bottom can be defined as the rectangle or athletic body type. Your hips, waist, and bust are in line with your shoulders, causing you a straight silhouette. With your measurements fairly similar across your body, you will want to create the illusion of curves. 

Not sure how to break up the rectangle? Choose a top with a detailed collar or a sweetheart neckline to add more volume to your upper body. If you’re wearing a deep V-neck shirt, pair the outfit with wide-leg or flared jeans to add more flow. 

To show off your athletic body type, we recommend you try on a flutter- or puff-sleeve mini dress. Don’t forget to play around with statement earrings, pointed shoes, and trusty belts. 

Tips for dressing a female rectangle body:

1. Define your waist with a belt, cinched shirts and jackets, or color-blocking patterns. 
2. Utilize shoulder-detailed tops and dresses to add more volume to your upper body. Try a puff-sleeve blouse or a one-shoulder dress. 
3. Create more body balance by complementing your top and bottom. If you choose a voluminous blouse, choose a more fitted bottom to add more proportion. 
4. Don’t be afraid to add texture with ruffles, frills, or embellishments to create more volume to your body. 
5. Show off your favorite assets with mini dresses and skirts. The flattering length will compliment your legs. 

Hourglass

If your body looks like Beyonce or Marilyn Monroe, you are most likely going to fall under the hourglass type of female body. Hourglass babes have equal measurements for hips and shoulders with a slimmer, more defined waist. The most important tip if you are unsure how to dress for this body type is to define your waist. 

The hourglass figure is known for having busty chests and a feminine silhouette. Choose outfits that balance your hourglass figure by opting for items that are more fitted in the chest, hips, and waist. The key is to work with your hourglass figure, instead of going against it. 

When searching for the best tops for an hourglass figure, it is important to select fitted tops to balance out your larger bust. V-necks and keyhole tops accentuate your chest without revealing too much. High-waisted pants will be your best friend to help highlight your waist and curves. Throw on a jumpsuit or sheath dress to look put together without all of the effort. 

Tips for dressing a female hourglass body:

1. Embrace your curves! Don’t hide under multiple layers or boxy styles. 
2. Wear a supportive bra to hold up your full chest and define your figure. 
3. Utilize lines to lengthen your silhouette. Thin and narrow lines can help balance out your curves. 
4. Use belts and fitted pieces to define your narrow waist and draw more attention to your midsection. 
5. Keep your accessories simple and have the main focus be your outfit and natural curves. 

Male Body Shapes and How To Dress Them

Knowing how to dress for your body type doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does take time and dedication. The first thing you need to do is identify your body type and understand your measurements. 

The five types of male bodies are triangle, inverted triangle, rectangle, oval, and trapezoid. Somehow, the billions of men in the world fall under one of these five categories. Let’s find your specific body type to help you dress well for your frame. 

Triangle

If you have ever been told you have a dad bod, you most likely fall under the triangle type of body. The triangle body type for men is defined by a thinner silhouette, narrow shoulders, and wide waist. 

Men with this body type may have a tough time selecting clothing that fits properly. The solution? Find outfits that draw focus to your upper body and away from your waist. When dressing your triangle body type, choose the right size that isn’t too big or tight. 

The key to styling outfits for a dad bod is to embrace your natural appearance. Throw on a pair of straight-leg denim to optimize your waist. Stick to darker shirt colors like black, gray, or navy to slim out your figure. 

Tips for dressing a male triangle body:

1. Avoid horizontal stripes at all costs! These stripes will make you look wider than usual. 
2. Make sure you are purchasing clothes that aren’t too tight or loose. Don’t size up or down; instead, pick something that is fitted with some breathing room. 
3. Visit a local tailor to make sure all shirts and pants fit properly.
4. Eliminate bright and bold colors that may draw attention to your waist. 
5. Stay away from fitted collar shirts that tend to thin out your shoulders while highlighting any roundness of your stomach and waist. 

Inverted Triangle

For all the gym rats out there, you may find yourself with the inverted triangle body type. The inverted triangle body type for men is basically a triangle that starts with the base at the shoulders and comes to a point at your belly button. You have a defined chest and well-developed shoulders that are broader than your waist. 

Your weekly muscle pump is paying off with accentuated muscle and a slim waist. The goal with dressing for the inverted triangle is to show off your toned body. However, it might be tougher to find clothes that fit since manufacturers often cater more to men who have a rectangle or oval-shaped body.

When it comes to styling your toned torso and muscular frame, you will want to opt for slim-fit shirts to subtly flaunt your physique. V-neck shirts are also great choices to draw attention to your chest. Slim-fit pants and straight-leg denim are also excellent options to pair nicely with your slimming shirt. 

Tips for dressing a male inverted triangle body:

1. Throw on a fitted jacket to add more details to your slim silhouette. 
2. Avoid unfitted suits and blazers with overpowering shoulder pads. Opt for something more fitted.  
3. Stock up on cotton shirts that stretch across your shoulders and defined chest. 
4. Stick to neutral colors and avoid busy patterns that can make your body appear disproportionate. 
5. Slim pants are a yes, ultra-skinny jeans are a no. Super-tight jeans will make your muscular legs look too scrawny compared to your toned torso. 

Rectangle

The rectangle body type is more than just your average Joe. If you are skinny on top with straight lines downward as well, then you, my friend, have the rectangle body shape. 

When it comes to dressing a rectangle, fitted clothes will be your best friend. One wrong size upward and your body will be swimming in fabric. On the other hand, if you pick up something that is way too tight, you could appear even thinner than usual. 

Tips for dressing a male rectangle body:

1. Be an onion! Add as many layers as possible without dying from overheating. Layering can make you appear wider to balance out your thin frame. 
2. Purchase a tailored suit that has enough structure to make you appear well-balanced. 
3. Avoid the oversized clothing trend, unless you want to look extremely wide and unflattering. 
4. Horizontal stripes can subtly change your look by adding a bit more width to your silhouette. 
5. Don’t be afraid to pick up brightly colored clothes to help your body look more dynamic. 

Oval

For all of the men who carry a little extra warmth in their tummy area, you are going to be categorized as the oval body type. This type of male body is known for wider waists, slim hips, and a more prominent stomach. 

A very common goal for oval men is to find clothes that create the illusion of a smaller waist area. Unsure how to dress for your body type? Pick out clothing pieces in darker colors or items that have vertical stripes to change the eye focus. 

Tips for dressing a male oval body:

1. Regular-fit T-shirts are great options for casual male outfits. 
2. Long jackets can add more length to your frame. Choose a trench coat, an overcoat, or even a mid-length jacket for colder seasons.  
3. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that can enhance your curves. 
4. Baggy clothes are a big no-no! Do not hide your physique, embrace your beautiful figure. 
5. Pick up straight-leg jeans and put down those cropped and cuffed denim. 

Trapezoid

For all of the Jon Hamm lookalikes out there, you are a trapezoid. No, seriously. You have broad shoulders and a toned torso that tapers down ever so naturally. 

Congratulations — not only do you look like Jon Hamm, but you also have one of the easiest body types to style. Manufacturers and fashion designers create their latest pieces with you as their inspiration. This body type has limitless options when it comes to fashion. 

Tips for dressing a male trapezoid body:

1. Take advantage of your natural build and standard height with slim, fitted clothes. 
2. Stay away from anything that is baggy or loose-fitted. 
3. Vertical lines can add more height, while horizontal stripes and plaid can add more bulk. 
4. Avoid super tight shirts and ultra-skinny jeans. Opt for something that is slim-fitting to hug you in all the right places. 
5. Complete your outfit with a simple shoe and a classic watch. Patterned and colored pocket squares can also elevate your look. 

Additional Considerations 

Fashion comes in all shapes, sizes, and even trends based on age. Not only do you have to find your measurements and body type, but you also have to search for fashion trends for your age range. Let’s see how to dress for your body type and age. 

How To Dress for Your Body Type and Age

Are you following the fashion trends in your age group? A 40-year-old mom of three might not be shopping for the same dress as a freshman college student. 

If you are in your teens and 20s, play around with mini dresses, distressed denim, and vintage graphic tees. Keep it fun and playful while you are young. As you enter your 30s and 40s, balance out your youthful items with chic outfits. As you move along the timeline, keep your fashion items classic and timeless. 

However, dressing for your age doesn’t mean completely conforming to the fashion age group you fall under. A number doesn’t define which pair of jeans you purchase or the basic LBD your daughter just bought at the mall. As long as you feel comfortable and confident in the clothes, then we say go for it and own it! 

How To Dress for Plus Size Body Types

Bigger is beautiful when it comes to your body. You have curves in all the right places, and you have a more voluminous figure. Don’t feel bad if you are unsure how to dress for plus size body types. 

Thankfully, more and more brands are creating inclusive sizing so you can strut the streets in all the latest trends. Let’s go over some cuts, patterns, and styles that pair perfectly with your plus size body type. 

Tips for dressing a plus size body:

1. Elongate your torso with an open V-neck or draw the eye upward with a scoop neck top. 
2. Dresses are great options because they are flattering for your figure. Emphasize your waist with a wrap dress or elongate your body with a midi dress.
3. Denim is your best friend! Balance out your curves with boot-cut jeans, lengthen your legs with skinny jeans, or elongate your frame with a pair of straight-leg pants. 
4. Don’t be afraid to throw on a jacket to complete your look. Opt for a belted jacket to define your waist, or a tailored blazer can add more structure to your frame. 
5. Add accessories to any look to enhance your features. Belts define your waist, pointed shoes can lengthen your legs, and necklaces are always a great option for some extra sparkle. 

Every man and woman comes in different shapes and sizes. We are all human and should appreciate the body we have. These body type classifications are a starting point if you are unsure how to dress for your body type. Most of us are a combination of a few! 

We hope you feel comfortable styling your body with our expert tips. At Tommy John, we want you to feel confident and beautiful in all of your clothes. Whether you are dressing up loungewear or stepping out for an evening adventure, stay true to your beautiful body. 

Are you the type of person whose New Year’s resolution is to get more exercise? Except the sound of weights being dropped or others looking in your direction intimidates you?

If you’ve had similar sentiments, you might be suffering from gymtimidation. The below guide will fully explain what “gymtimidation” is and contains expert advice on how to overcome it. We also discuss ways to make your fitness center more inclusive. 

Don’t let the fear of going to the gym impede your health and self-care. For a quick summary, view our visual by clicking the button at the bottom of the post.

Gymtimidation Defined

Gymtimidation is the fear and dread of working out in front of other people. This anxiety isn’t just relegated to the gym — it can occur in yoga classes, cycling studios, or any exercise activity where others are present. 

According to Thomas Mentus, a personal trainer for six years and an expert panelist at Garage Gym Reviews, people are “way more critical of themselves than others are of them. So, if you can get a handle on your own self-criticism, then the fear of being judged by others will lessen.” 

If this experience sounds familiar, you’ve likely experienced gymtimidation before. And you’re not alone.

According to one survey of 2,000 Americans, 47% of all respondents experienced gymtimidation when exercising around others. And 32% felt intimidated when working out near someone whom they perceived to be in “excellent shape.”

So, how does gymtimidation manifest and why do so many people experience it? 

Gymtimidation mostly occurs internally. For many people, it derives from their anxieties and nervousness around how they look or feel. These anxious thoughts and emotions are heightened when exercising around others. 

We’ll get more into how to overcome gymtimidation later, but for now, know that your fear of going to the gym is valid and shared among many others.

How Different Genders Experience Gymtimidation

Gymtimidation for women and men can resonate in different ways. Please note that these tendencies aren’t binary and overlap does exist. However, these general differences are worth noting.

According to one study, 44% of women at the gym feared using free weights due to not knowing what they’re doing or injuring themselves. 

Some of these gym-going women feared judgment from others — with 14% blaming glances or judgment from men for their anxiety and 10% fearing judgment from other women. 

The study also found that women, more so than men, were concerned about appearing out of shape and looking clueless around exercise equipment. Only two in 10 men from the study were afraid of appearing clueless while working out.

These emotions fall in line with how many of Dr. Sharon Gam’s clients feel when working out around others. Dr. Gam is a personal trainer with a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology and over 14 years of experience.  

She says that “many of my clients are worried that they’re not doing their exercises correctly. They feel uncoordinated and insecure about the way they move and that they might be judged for doing their exercises wrong.”

Men also experience gymtimidation like women. Many of the feelings occur in both sexes. However, Dr. Gam has noticed some tendencies that men do more often than women:

“Men tend to feel like they aren’t doing enough in the gym when they’re working out around others. They sometimes treat it like a competition and add too much weight to their exercises or try exercises that are too advanced for their current fitness level.”

For both sexes, exercise can correlate with body positivity, but it’s more evident for women. One 2014 study found that in general, women exercise more often than men. The same study found that motivation to exercise differs: “Women reported exercising for weight loss and toning more than men, whereas men reported exercising for enjoyment more than women.”

We can’t say for certain why these differences exist, but they’re worth knowing and acknowledging — especially as you exercise around others.

Ways To Overcome Gymtimidation and Stick With Your Fitness Journey

Conquering your fears about going to the gym is part of your fitness journey. First, you must consistently show up to your fitness center or workout classes. You can’t defeat your fear of gyms without showing up. Below are seven more tips to help you conquer gymtimidation. 

1. Grow Your Confidence

For many people, exercising in front of others is a vulnerable act. As stated earlier, many men and women fear being judged by others. Novice gym-goers are often worried that they might look clueless in front of others. 

Psychologist and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist Mandy Kloppers believes that these fears of judgment are internal and often exaggerated. “We all want to be liked and we often overestimate the likelihood of others rejecting us.” 

This aligns with how many gym-goers feel: They have a heightened sense that others are judging them when in most cases they aren’t. Kloppers suggests overcoming your fears by confronting them head on. “The less you avoid your fears, the more your self-confidence will grow. Do it for yourself and care less about what others think.”

So, the next time you’re working out and have fears or suspect judgment from others, focus on yourself and know that most people at the gym are also concentrating on their own fitness journey.

2. Don’t Stare

How awkward is it when you look up from your treadmill and someone is staring directly at you? Nobody likes a starer, so resist that natural urge and instinct to look at others. 

Unfortunately, though, humans are hard-wired to believe that others are staring at them, even if they’re not. This biological sensation is further heightened when it’s ambiguous if someone is actually staring at you.

When people move, especially in your peripheral vision, it’s instinctive to look at them. In a training room, there’s constant movement, which attracts your eyes and often makes you look toward the moving object.  Your adrenaline also increases when exercising, which increases pupil dilation. These heightened stimuli can cause people to look at others in the gym more often than they would in other places.

Now that you know that some people — and perhaps you — are self-conscious in the gym, it’s best to remember that your gaze can make others feel uncomfortable. So, when exercising around others, be cognizant of where your eyes drift off to and concentrate on each exercise.

3. Ask for Help

We all need a little help sometimes in life. The gym is no exception. If you’re doing an exercise and need a spotter (someone who can help you safely lift and re-rack the weight) don’t be afraid to ask a nearby person. Most people are willing to help. Plus, it’s a good way to meet other gym members and expand your fitness community. 

If you’re unsure how to use an exercise machine or how to do a specific exercise, you can ask a fitness trainer or floor manager for a quick tutorial. You can also schedule a one-on-one session with a personal trainer to learn exercises that correspond with your goals. 

4. Find the Gym That Fits Your Needs

According to NPR’s Planet Money, the majority of gyms’ profit stems from members not going. Stacey Vanek Smith, the co-host of Planet Money, states that “people who don’t go [to gyms] are subsidizing the membership of people who do. So, if you don’t work out, you are making gyms affordable for everyone.”

Don’t be one of the people wasting your membership! 

To help keep you on top of your fitness journey, choose a gym that fits your needs. Below is a list of questions and concerns to take into account:

1. Distance from your workplace or home
2. Cleanliness of the gym
3. Gym culture: Is it noisy? Do people seem accepting? Are there people similar to your level of expertise?
4. During peak times, or when you’ll be going, is exercise equipment open?
5. Do their business hours accommodate your lifestyle?
6. Are you interested in the fitness classes?

Consider which of these concerns matters most to you and go with that gym. Review these below tips when scoping out a new gym.

1. Visit during peak times or when you’ll be working out.
2. Carefully review the contract and read the fine print.
3. Take a tour to see if there are people similar to your expertise.
4. Try a free or week-long membership.
5. Choose the gym you feel most comfortable at.

5. Research and Practice at Home

Practicing movements in front of a mirror isn’t just for TikTok stars. If you’re concerned about how you might look in the gym when doing a specific exercise, perform that exercise at home. You can record yourself on a smartphone or practice in front of a mirror.

Dr. Gam recommends practicing “bodyweight variations of the basic exercises (push, pull, squat, hinge, and core)” at home in small repetitions. This will help “build movement skills, which in turn builds confidence.” If you’re still skeptical about your form, do the exercises in front of a mirror. 

Like a TikTok star, the internet is also your best friend. There are tons of helpful videos and online blogs explaining different exercises and the best activities for specific muscle groups. 

6. Get in the Zone With Your Playlist

You may already be doing this tip at the gym. Ignore others by playing music while exercising. If you’re easily distracted by other people’s conversations or dislike your gym’s noise, consider purchasing noise-canceling headphones.

In fact, listening to music while exercising can be beneficial. According to Scientific American, “Music distracts people from pain and fatigue, elevates mood.” One study also found that those who cycled in time to music required 7% less oxygen than cyclists who did not synchronize their movements to music.

If you’re not sure what to listen to, there are hundreds of curated workout playlists on streaming services. Try out various genres and tunes during your workouts to see which ones pump you up the most. 

7. Workout With a Buddy

Working out in a new environment can feel exposing. Find a workout buddy to help support you throughout your fitness journey. Here are a few benefits to working out with another person:

1. When you exercise with another person it can feel less intimidating. 
2. Your partner can help to keep you accountable. 
3. Your partner is typically a great motivator and knows your limitations.
4. You can also spot each other and critique one another’s form.

How To Stop Perpetuating Gymtimidation

Now that you know what gymtimidation is and ways to overcome it, you can also help eradicate gymtimidation within your gym. 

According to Melody Sayers, who is the owner of Elevate Your Plate and has a Master of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science, the gym is a unique place and should be thought of as such.

For Sayers, “the gym is actually one of the most unifying places that exists, for everyone is in there for the same exact reasons, regardless of body type, endurance levels, strength abilities, age, gender, sexual orientation, or religion.”

With this viewpoint in mind, here are a few ways to prevent gymtimidation from spreading:

1. Stop staring: As noted earlier, staring at others while they exercise can be uncomfortable and intimidating. Focus on your workout and be conscious of where your eyes wander off to.
2. Be welcoming: Be friendly to new gym members. Some people want to work out unbothered, but many individuals don’t mind chatting briefly during their workout. At a minimum, try to smile at other patrons. In fact, smiling while exercising can even improve your stamina.
3. Offer a spot: If you see someone lifting a weight near their maximum ability, offer to spot for them. Even if they don’t take you up on the offer, most people will appreciate the gesture. Just make sure you’re capable of lifting the weight if something awry were to happen.
4. Allow others to work in: During peak hours, you’re likely to want to get in and out of the gym quickly — like most people. If you’re using a specific machine or weight rack for a long time, it’s good gym etiquette to let others work in. If you’re in a rush, let the person waiting know how many sets you have left and notify them when you’re finished. 
5. Offer advice to others: Giving unsolicited advice can be tricky. However, if you see someone doing an exercise incorrectly or nervously looking around, don’t be afraid to ask them if they want your advice. If they don’t, they’ll say no. In most cases, the person will be grateful for the help. They could even become your next workout buddy.

Now you know what gymtimidation is and how to conquer it. You’re also aware of how to make your fitness space more inclusive and are therefore helping to thwart gymtimidation. 

Remember, the most important part of getting past gymtimidation is actually going to your gym or exercise classes. Consistently showing up is the hardest part!

Lastly, if you’re a man in need of wearing comfortable and breathable exercise gear, check out our 360 sports underwear. For women, we have Go Anywhere Pocket Leggings. You can also read our guide on the best underwear for running. 

Are you on the hunt for the perfect bra to wear underneath tricky necklines and low-cut tops? Tired of bras with far too much padding and fabric that seem to peek through all your tight-fitting clothing? 

Allow us to introduce you to the demi bra.

And what is a demi bra, you may ask? The word “demi” means “half” in French and, in bra terms, refers to cups designed to cover about 50-75% of the breasts. The demi bra is a popular and versatile bra type that can be dressed up or down depending on your needs.

Also referred to as shelf bras or half bras, demi bras lift and enhance cleavage without losing the natural silhouette of your breast shape (and who doesn’t want that?). 

While bra shopping isn’t always an easy task, we’ll guide you through how a demi bra should fit, what clothing to pair it with, and try-on tips as you begin your search for the perfect-fitting demi bra.

Demi Bra vs. Full-Coverage Bra: What’s the Difference?

A demi bra provides less cup coverage than a full-coverage bra. Support from a demi bra comes from its cups and underwire (if you choose a demi bra style with underwire, that is). With a full-coverage bra, you’ll get support from the full breast cups. 

Because demi bras feature about half the cup coverage compared to a full-coverage bra, demi bras won’t offer the same degree of support. However, demi bras are a great everyday option for those that feel comfortable with a bit less coverage.

Types of Demi Bras

As you shop around for the perfect demi bra to add to your bra rotation, there are a few different bra styles to consider. 

1. Demi Push-Up Bra

A demi push-up bra features extra padding in the cups to lift the breasts and enhance cleavage. This bra type is perfect for a date night or for an occasion when you’d like to show a little more skin. 

2. Unlined Demi Bra 

Unlined demi bras are created without padding in the cups. They can be made with or without underwires and help to create a natural-looking, softly rounded silhouette. Unlined demi bras are great underneath thicker materials since nipple coverage will be at a minimum. 

3. Demi Balconette Bra

One of the most popular demi bra styles, the demi balconette bra is a versatile option that lifts the breast from the bottom and prevents gaping at the top. Options include everything from lined to unlined and wired to wire-free. Demi balconette bras are great for low-cut tops and dresses when you want to show off sexy but natural cleavage.

4. Demi Bralette

If minimal coverage is what you’re after, a demi bralette is the perfect choice. This style is a comfortable, less structured option that conforms to your natural breast shape. Demi bralettes are great for everyday wear under anything from your work-from-home attire to casual dresses. 

Who Should Wear a Demi Bra?

Demi bras are a flattering style for all breast shapes, but it really comes down to personal preference. Demi bras elevate and enhance cleavage, which may not be something you want for everyday wear or underneath high-neck clothing. 

While demi bras create a lovely effect for those with any size bust, if you prefer feeling fully covered you may not like the half-cup nature of the demi bra. For those with breasts that are fuller at the bottom compared to the top, a demi bra is the perfect choice to hug and lift your chest upward. 

How Should a Demi Bra Fit?

A demi cup will give you more cleavage and less coverage than a traditional full-coverage bra. A good rule of thumb is to have your demi cup cover about one inch above the nipple point. With this fit, the bra will slightly push your breasts inward to create more cleavage. 

What To Wear With a Demi Bra

A demi bra can be worn with a variety of tops and dresses and is a great option when wearing tricky necklines. If you’re after a sexier look, pair your demi bra with a low-neckline top. Where a full-coverage bra can often be hard to hide the cup shape, a demi bra can slip undetected underneath many types of clothing. 

Tips for Finding the Perfect-Fitting Demi Bra

Choosing a demi bra that fits you just right can be a bit of an undertaking. With so many styles to choose from, you may feel a little overwhelmed. To help you find the perfect demi bra, we’ve compiled a few tips to keep in mind.

Consider Your Breast Shape

The misconception that a demi bra works best on a smaller bust is just that — a misconception. Demi bras work great for breast sizes across the spectrum, not just for those with A or B cups. 

One thing to keep in mind with demi bras is that the bra cups lift from the bottom of your breast up to achieve that enhanced cleavage look. So if you have breasts that tend to be fuller at the bottom, a demi bra will offer you the perfect balance of lift without creating a spillover effect at the top of the bra. 

Pay Attention To the Straps

Another thing to note when choosing a demi bra is that the bra straps are often set a bit farther apart than a traditional full-coverage bra. If you have narrow or sloping shoulders, this may cause an issue with the bra straps slipping off your shoulder. 

Be sure to try on as many different demi bra styles as you need to find one with straps that stay on your shoulders. This is important because the straps of a demi bra offer much of the support since the cups cover less breast tissue. 

Avoid Spillage

To find the perfect-fitting demi bra, you may have to try on a few styles outside your typical bra size. One of the biggest fit issues with demi bras is spillover at the top of the breasts. 

Oftentimes, going up a cup size while sticking with your normal band size will solve this problem. You could also try on your bra sister size, which are alternate bra sizes where the bra volume stays the same even though the band size or cup letter may change. 

Be careful not to size up too much. Your demi bra cups should sit flat against your breast shape. If you see a gap between the cups and your breasts, you know you’ve sized up too much. 

Pair It With the Right Clothing

When trying on demi bras, be sure to grab a couple of your favorite low-neck and deep-V tops that you’d typically wear over a demi bra. This is also a chance to try on your clothing with tricky necklines to ensure the demi bra cups stay hidden.  

It’s always a good idea to bring a few clothing pieces to try as you’re bra shopping, but it’s especially important with demi bras because it will help determine if your bra is too gaping (too big) or digging into your chest (too small). 

Now that you know what a demi bra is, you know what a stylish and adaptable addition one can make to your bra rotation. Perfect for pairing with tricky necklines or adding a sexy bit of cleavage to your favorite low-neck tops, demi bras are adaptable bras you’ll reach for again and again. Explore our best-selling Second Skin Lightly Lined Demi Bra to level up your lingerie drawer today.

Have you ever been asked, “Are you feeling all right?” when you weren’t sick? Told you look drowsy when you thought you’d gotten enough sleep the night before? These comments don’t feel good, but they can help draw attention to a need you may be unknowingly neglecting: beauty sleep.

The term “beauty sleep” may feel overused and outdated, but as it turns out there’s quite a bit of truth to it. This guide unpacks what beauty sleep really is and helps you get your sleep habits on track so you can look and feel your very best. Throw on your comfiest pajamas and let’s dive in!

What Is Beauty Sleep?

Beauty sleep refers to the restorative process that occurs during deep sleep that heals skin, reduces inflammation and improves mood.

Often, beauty sleep is used to describe sleeping well and waking up with glowing skin and a bright smile. While improved physical appearance is certainly a benefit of beauty sleep — which we’ll explore in greater detail shortly — it is a mentally restorative process as well.

Just as we wash our clothes and hop in the shower to feel fresh and renewed, we sleep to declutter our brains and prepare them for the next day’s stimuli.

According to clinical psychologist Dr. Michael Breus, also known as The Sleep Doctor, failing to get sufficient sleep can “clutter your brain with a lot of information it doesn’t need, since proper rest also works to discard any unneeded memories or information.”

How Many Hours Are Necessary for Beauty Sleep?

To achieve beauty sleep, it’s important to first ensure you’re sleeping for the recommended number of hours for your age.

According to findings from the National Sleep Foundation, healthy adults should regularly get seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Teenagers should get even more, with eight to 10 hours deemed appropriate.

8 Science-Backed Benefits of Beauty Sleep

Sleep takes up a third of our lives, so needless to say it’s been studied quite a bit. The following section will dive into some valuable research-backed benefits you can expect from getting high-quality sleep every night.

1. Fewer Signs of Aging

Your dreams aren’t the only thing taking you back to your youth. Sleep itself actually slows the visible aging process by minimizing wrinkles. This is thanks to collagen, a prolific protein our bodies use for several purposes, including providing our skin with structure and elasticity.

Here’s the catch — collagen requires sleep. Deep sleep. The more sleep you get, the more collagen your skin produces and the less you wrinkle.

In addition to supporting collagen production, better sleep also keeps skin hydrated. Dry skin is notorious for intensifying the appearance of wrinkles, so quality sleep can help to smooth out wrinkles that already exist.

2. Reduced Eye Inflammation

Have you ever looked in the mirror after a sleepless night and wondered why your eyes look so swollen? In a study comparing the appearances of sleep-deprived and rested people, sleep-deprived people were perceived as having significantly more swollen eyes.

But why is this? Another study by the American Psychology Association showed that adults who sleep under eight hours per night reported greater stress levels than those who sleep eight or more hours per night. Stress can have all kinds of unhealthy effects on the body, including the production of cortisol. Cortisol increases water retention, which is the reason for those puffy eyes that can make you appear unwell.

3. Reduced Acne

Cortisol becomes a roadblock once again when it comes to preventing acne. As you’ve probably heard, stress can cause acne breakouts by increasing oil production and clogging pores.

You may be wondering, “Does lack of sleep cause acne?” One study aiming to answer this question found a potential relationship between acne and sleep quality. Evidence certainly supports that poor sleep can contribute to more severe breakouts, but other habits such as how often you wash your bedding and clean your skin also matter.

4. Brighter and Healthier Complexion

It’s no wonder where Sleeping Beauty got her name. Sleep and skin health truly go hand-in-hand — a claim that has been backed by research time and time again. 

Sleep has been shown to improve blood flow, an essential function that allows for excellent blood distribution. This keeps your skin looking bright and beautiful, doing justice to your inner beauty.

5. More Impactful Skin Care

Believe it or not, great sleep can help your skin care products go the extra mile to keep your skin healthy. Many of these products get absorbed deep into the skin and help repair damage, but they could use some support.

Consistent blood flow during sleep helps your skin take advantage of these products’ restorative properties and heal even better overnight. Before you blame your skin care products for lack of results, make sure you’re giving your body the rest it needs for them to do their job.

6. Easier Weight Management

Sleeping is just resting for an extended period of time, so it’s not like sleep can help you lose weight — right? Actually, researchers widely agree that poor sleep can put you at greater risk of obesity by over 27%.

This is because sleep helps regulate your body weight and metabolism, and lack of sleep causes your body to produce more ghrelin — a hormone that makes you feel hungry and store fat. If this research tells us anything, it’s that weight loss needs to be tackled from several angles. If working out doesn’t seem to be cutting it, it might be time to take a closer look at your sleep habits.

7. Improved Mood and Self-Esteem

If you feel grumpy the morning after a night of poor sleep, you’re not alone. One study revealed that sleep quality has a significant impact on mood. The same study showed that mood can also impact sleep quality, so grumpiness and sleepiness can easily become a pretty frustrating cycle.

Beauty isn’t just about how healthy our skin looks — it’s also about the way we feel. When we lack quality sleep, feelings of depression often develop and show in our self-care, our relationships and the way we carry ourselves. Developing healthy sleep habits is a great place to start if you find yourself falling into this cycle.

8. Higher Energy Levels

It’s common knowledge that the amount of sleep you get impacts your energy levels the following day. One study revealed that sleep loss has a significant impact on our choices that require effort, which could even put our safety at risk. For example, deciding whether to pull over to rest when driving late at night becomes much more challenging when sleep-deprived.

Self-love is about making the best decisions for our health and safety. By prioritizing sleep, we’re making the active choice to treat ourselves better and make wiser choices.

5 Tips To Score More Beauty Sleep

By now, the importance of beauty sleep should be clear. If you’re ready to take steps toward improving your sleep quality, we’re here to help.

Of course, everyone has a different body and nobody sleeps exactly the same way. That said, there are some strategies that have been proven to help people embrace “slow beauty,” improving how we look and feel when we wake up in the morning.

1. Hydrate Before Bed

We’ve all heard a million times that drinking plenty of water is one of the best things we can do for our health. This holds true for overnight skin health, too! Though the impact of hydration on skin health has yet to be extensively researched, one study noted reduced signs of skin dryness and roughness following additional water intake.

If you want to avoid rushing to the restroom in the middle of the night, you don’t have to chug a couple glasses of water. Try eating healthy foods that hydrate an hour before bed, such as cucumbers, celery or watermelon.

2. Moisturize

Especially in dry months, it’s common for skin and hair to dry out overnight. Once you’ve hydrated for the night, don’t forget to use conditioner in your hair when you shower and apply moisturizer on your skin. Moisturizers help create a protective barrier over your skin so that you retain water and stay hydrated.

If you suffer from eczema, psoriasis or another condition that causes particularly dry skin, you might consider investing in a humidifier. Humidifiers release water vapor into the air, creating a humid environment that’s friendly to dry skin.

3. Stick to a Calming Bedtime Routine

It can be tempting to scroll through social media or draft work emails right before bed. Unfortunately, these activities expose you to blue light that disrupts your circadian rhythm by tricking your brain into thinking it’s daytime.

You also never know what you’re going to see while scrolling — the internet is filled with stressors that could flood your brain with cortisol (a hormone that increases heart rate and energy supply) and disrupt your sleep.

Instead of using your phone or laptop, devote the hour before bed to reading a book, meditating, drinking some caffeine-free tea or listening to calming music. These calming activities are a much better way to unwind from the day and ease you into beauty sleep.

4. Keep Your Space Clean

Your bedroom is your sleep sanctuary, so it’s important to keep this space tidy and comfortable. Dust and dirt settle over time and often go unnoticed, but these can carry allergens that disrupt sleep.

Set reminders to dust and vacuum every other week (at minimum) to keep your space looking and feeling great. Consider going a step further by investing in an air purifier to filter dust and other irritants out of the air.

Lastly, don’t forget about your bedding! Sheets, pillowcases and blankets collect germs over time that can induce acne breakouts. Wash sheets and pillowcases every week and comforters or other top blankets every month.

5. Choose Food and Drinks Wisely

What we don’t put into our bodies is just as important as what we do when it comes to sleep wellness. Salty and greasy foods, for example, can cause inflammation during sleep and may disrupt sleep quality. They can also dry out your mouth, causing you to wake up in the middle of the night feeling like a fish out of water.

Caffeine and alcohol are also known to disrupt sleep. It’s a common misconception that because alcohol can make you sleepy, it helps you sleep better. In reality, alcohol consumption deteriorates sleep quality significantly.

Ultimately, remember to consume these foods and drinks in moderation and try to avoid them altogether the few hours before bedtime.

As you continue your journey with beauty sleep and start setting health goals for the new year, consider downloading our printable sleep trackers below.

Beauty Sleep FAQs

Certain bedtime routines work great for some people and not so great for others. If you have a million questions about how to make beauty sleep work for you, you’re not alone. We address some common questions about this phenomenon below.

Is Beauty Sleep a Real Thing?

Yes! Beauty sleep is much more than a cliché. Research shows that quality sleep and sleep hygiene are important determinants in how we look and feel. If you’re working on feeling healthier, rejuvenating your skin and improving your self-esteem, beauty sleep is a great place to start.

How Do I Get Rid of Sleep Wrinkles?

Sleep wrinkles, or sleep lines, are the result of laying on your side or stomach with your face pressed against your pillow. Here are some tips for getting rid of sleep wrinkles and preventing them to begin with:

1. Sleep on your back
2. Avoid sleeping on your hands and arms
3. Wear a sleep mask
4. Use skin care products that help smooth out wrinkles

Why Does My Skin Look Better in the Morning?

During the day, our bodies are exposed to sunlight, harsh weather, dirt and other elements that clog pores and cause irritation. Our blood vessels also dilate during the day, which can make skin imperfections more defined.

On the other hand, when we sleep, our cells repair and regenerate at a much faster rate than when we’re awake. If you’ve developed an effective skin care routine, those products have time to work overnight as well, contributing to morning glow.

How Can I Improve My Appearance After a Sleepless Night?

Ideally, we’d get great beauty sleep every night. Unfortunately, life gets in the way and we often can’t hit our desired seven to nine hours. On the days you get out of bed feeling restless and worried about your appearance, try out the following tips:

1. Cool your eyes with ice packs, chilled cucumbers, etc.
2. Take a cold shower or bath
3. Go for a quick jog
4. Eat foods rich in antioxidants, like blueberries

Beauty sleep is an important part of any healthy self-care regimen, but it can take some effort. Use the tips above as inspiration to help you improve your sleep and wake up loving what you see in the mirror.

Before you repeat your sleep affirmations and crawl into bed, remember to grab a pair of our silky soft pajamas to help you calmly drift into beauty sleep.