Many jobs and professions require you to wear a uniform. It can be for protection, recognition, or to identify your workplace. No matter how well they are made, they are uniform and naturally won't fit everyone equally. No matter how good the sizing, there will most likely be aspects of the uniform that aren't quite right. What can you do to improve the fit and comfort of something that you have to wear regularly?
Try different undergarments
Chafing is a common issue when wearing uniforms due to poor fit and rough seams and fabrics. Women's scrubs often sag causing chafing in the inner thigh. Military uniforms have thick rough seams for durability which can also cause rubbing in the inner thigh. Try long legged underwear such as a women's boxer brief or slip short under your pants. These will eliminate panty lines, stay in place, and have a seamless inner thigh to protect from chafe via a soft barrier. While you may want to try shapewear, remember that comfort is king for all day performance. Find a chafing solution which works for you and stays comfortable all day long.
If you find yourself needing to wear skirts and dresses we also recommend a anti thigh chafe slip short like Undersummers Shortlettes. They keep you cool and comfortable during the most active of days. Flight attendants love Undersummers Shortlettes for this reason.
Identify Problem Areas
When wearing your uniform, take note of what doesn't feel right. Is it too tight in the arms or chest? Does it feel loose and bulky in the waist? Is the crotch sagging low or not enough room in the butt? Maybe the neckline feels too high or is too tight. Also watch for places where the uniform rubs. Maybe the legs rub and the fabric wears or you get chafed because of rough seams or sagging. Take note of all the places that "don't feel quite right." Many of these issues can be addressed through tailoring or adjusting the size.
Make Friends with Your Tailor
Many areas of a garment can be adjusted by a skilled tailor. Come prepared with a list of issues you would like to see addressed.
Make the Fabric Soft
Uniforms fabric and seams can be very rough and durable. Use fabric softeners to soften the fabric or try adding some vinegar in the rinsing cycle, about half a cup should do the trick, and no – it won’t make your clothes smell of vinegar.
Try Different Sizes
Every brand and styles of garments are sized differently. Don't be afraid to try different sizes and find the one that feels best. Resist the need to "wear a specific size" just because it is the size you want to wear. Find the size that is most comfortable and wear the one that fits most comfortably. Remember, sizes are assigned by the designer and are not a reflection of you.
At the end of the day, talk to your colleagues and/or management and share ideas for getting a more comfortable fit. In the end, a comfortable uniform will allow you to be on the top of your game all day long.
