As the number of women with gun permits grows, the firearms industry is taking notice. New guns are lighter, slimmer, and designed for a woman’s frame. And clothing like leggings and purses that allow women to conceal their weapons are now available.
Tank Tops
When it comes to concealed carry clothing, many women are looking for styles that make carrying a firearm as easy as possible. This means finding holsters that fit well and choosing clothes that hide them. For example, a peplum-style shirt that flares out at the waistline can help easily conceal a handgun. And a fitted shirt with a zipper can make it even easier to access your weapon. The fabric is another essential factor to consider when choosing womens gun apparel. For example, natural fabrics like cotton and wool are breathable and comfortable, and help to balance body temperature. They also offer great hiding options, especially when paired with a dark color or a pattern. This includes fabrics such as stripes, animal print, plaid, and polka-dot that can distract the eye from the outline of your firearm. And if you’re struggling with printing, try layering. This can be particularly effective for hotter climates or when you’re wearing lighter clothes, such as a flowy sun shirt or a Hawaiian holster shirt. This way, you can add a second top over your holster that will help to obscure the outline of your weapon and make it less likely to show up on security camera footage or to be discovered by anyone other than yourself. This will give you extra peace of mind and a chance to be more flexible regarding where you’re willing to carry your firearm publicly.
Blouses
A good concealed carry blouse will keep your gun and holster covered without exposing your weapon or challenging it to reach. Blouses come in various styles, including v-neck or crew neckline, short or long sleeves, and slim or relaxed fit. Some even have moisture-wicking active fabrics. Having one of these shirts can make all the difference in concealing your pistol and staying comfortable during a day on the go. Women who wear concealed firearms must have a few cover garments in their wardrobe. The goal is to hide the outline of your handgun by wearing a pattern or dark color shirt. Prints like stripes, plaid, polka dots, camo, and dark colors are a great way to obscure the outline of your pistol and help mask printing issues that can occur when wearing tighter-fitting clothing. Wear a scarf or hat to add a layer to your outfit. These accessories can distract people enough that they don’t notice your holster, making drawing your pistol easier and responding quickly to any threats. For colder weather, a wool jacket is another great option. This natural fabric is thick and warm while allowing air to circulate. It also looks professional and can be worn with a business suit for work or a casual sweater when you’re running errands.
Shorts
Concealed carry apparel is one of the most critical areas where the firearms industry has been slow to take women seriously. When it comes to pants, jeans are usually the go-to for concealed carry, and plenty of inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are available. However, there is a lot of variation among women’s bodies and clothing styles, so finding a holster that works with your pants can be a challenge. Fortunately, the gun apparel industry is catching up to this need with holsters that can be worn with women’s shorts. These are typically made from lighter fabrics that keep you cool and often have a waistband to accommodate belt loops and a holster. These shorts are ideal for summer but also work great in the fall and winter as you can pair them with longer, light cotton sleeveless vests or jackets to help conceal your belt holster. If you prefer skinny jeans, consider wearing them with a roomier sweater or hoodie that should cover your belt holster. This way, if you have to reach up or grab something, your holster will not be revealed.
Pants
In addition to tops, women’s gun apparel includes pants. Choosing the fitting pants for concealed carry is essential to form and function. The right pair of pants will hold a concealed weapon and be comfortable enough to work all day, including walking, bending, and sitting. High-waisted pants will help you avoid printing as your firearm sits higher on your hips. For added comfort, wear a belt and consider choosing a pair that will accommodate a tactical holster. An ankle holster is a good choice when a woman wants to conceal carry while wearing long clothing such as dresses or skirts. Ankle holsters are easy to reach when sitting or walking and allow you to draw your handgun quickly without removing your entire shirt. Alternatively, you can wear a jacket designed with concealed pockets.