Tights are a versatile and stylish wardrobe staple that can effortlessly elevate any outfit. Whether you’re donning them for a yoga session, heading out for a jog, or simply aiming to stay cosy in cold weather, tights are a go-to choice for many. However, there’s one dreaded fashion faux pas that can occur when wearing tights —the camel toe.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a “camel toe” is when the fabric of your tights bunches up in the crotch area, creating a somewhat embarrassing and uncomfortable bulge that resembles, well, a camel’s toe. It’s a common concern, but not to worry because, in this guide, I will share some tips and tricks on how to wear tights without camel toe based on my experiences as a personal shopper.
What Causes Camel Toe in Tights?
Before we go into the solutions, it’s important to understand what causes camel toe in the first place. Camel toe occurs when the fabric of your tights becomes wedged into the creases of the crotch area, and several factors contribute to its appearance;
1. Poorly designed tights
Some tights may have inadequate designs that don’t provide enough support, and it is also common for some tights to have flimsy seams that don’t hold up under pressure, causing the fabric to gather in all the wrong places. Cheap materials that don’t stretch well are the usual suspects.
2. Incorrect sizing
Tights are normally very stretchy and accommodating, but they do come in different sizes. Choosing the wrong size of tights can lead to camel toe. Tights that are too snug may dig into your skin, while those that are too loose may create excess fabric in the crotch area.
3. Fabric type
Thin tights made from cheap materials can easily expand and lose their elasticity after a while, causing them to slide into the folds down there. You may be wondering, aren’t tights already made to be thin by design? Well, yes, but these days they are made with more durable fibre blends in order to withstand pressure, tears, and ripping.
4. Physical activities
Activities that involve a lot of bending, stretching, or high-impact movements can cause tension in the crotch area, and this can lead to a camel toe. Another factor at play is sweat. When outside in the sun, you’re likely to sweat, and moisture can make the lightweight fabrics cling to the skin.
How To Wear Tights Without Camel Toe
Now that we’ve identified the causes, I’m going to share some ways to stop camel toeing when wearing tights effectively.
1. Use a camel toe concealer
As a personal shopper who has worked with women of different shapes and needs, I must say that the camel toe concealer has been a game changer. This easy-to-use silicone cover does exactly what the name implies; it conceals, covers, and camouflages to prevent camel toe, not to mention the way it blends in seamlessly with the body, making it perfect for delicate tight fabrics.
2. Choose the right tights
When it comes to camel toe, size always matters. So the first step you can take to eliminate camel toe is to ensure you choose the correct size of tights. Refer to the size chart provided by the manufacturer and measure yourself accurately. Tights that are too small will be prone to camel toe, while oversized tights can create excess fabric in the crotch area, also causing issues.
Another important tip is to invest in high-quality tights. Quality tights often have reinforced seams and a better overall fit, reducing the likelihood of camel toe. While they may cost a bit more, they are worth it for the comfort and confidence they provide.
3. Opt for seamless tights
Consider purchasing seamless tights. Seamless tights have no visible middle seam, which significantly reduces the chance of camel toe. The absence of a seam means there’s no extra fabric to bunch up.
4. Go for blackout tights
Blackout tights are made from thicker and opaque materials, provide superior coverage, and reduce the risk of camel toe. These tights offer a dependable solution to help you avoid the discomfort and embarrassment of camel toe, making them a valuable addition to your wardrobe.
5. Wear tights correctly
When putting on your tights, be gentle and slide them on slowly, making sure the fabric is evenly distributed across your legs. Avoid pulling or tugging, as this can cause the fabric to gather in the wrong places. Once your tights are on, take a moment to adjust them. Gently pull the fabric downwards and towards your hip to ensure it is sitting comfortably without any bunching in the crotch area.
6. Wear moisture-wicking underwear
If you’re planning on engaging in a high-impact activity like running or dancing, opt for moisture-wicking underwear. This type of underwear is designed to keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your skin, reducing the chances of fabric sticking to your skin and causing camel toe.
7. Use a panty liner
Placing a thin panty liner in your underwear can act as a barrier between your skin and the tights, preventing them from clinging too closely and causing camel toe. To achieve this, apply one panty liner on the crotch area of your panties as you normally would, then put another one horizontally across the front of your panties.
8. Maintain them properly
Worn-out leggings are more prone to bunching up because they would have lost their elasticity and structure; therefore, you should adopt a good maintenance culture. To do this, you can start by getting more than one pair to reduce the wear and tear.
You should either wash your tights by hand or launder them by placing them in a pillow case before throwing them in the washer. As for storage, you can roll them up and keep them in good condition; this will not only keep camel toeing at bay, but it will also help your tights last longer.
Tips to Hide Camel Toe in Tights
1. Choose longer tops
When wearing tights as part of an outfit, select tops that are long enough to cover the crotch area. This not only helps conceal any potential camel toe, but it also adds a stylish touch to your look.
2. Experiment with patterns
Sometimes, choosing tights with patterns or textured fabrics can help camouflage any potential camel toe. The added visual interest can divert attention away from the crotch area.
3. Practice good posture
Believe it or not, your posture can affect the likelihood of camel toe. Standing tall with good posture can help the fabric of your tights fall more naturally and reduce squeezing.
Final Takeaway
Camel toe in tights is a common concern, but with the right precautions and clothing choices, you can easily avoid it. Remember to choose the correct size of tights, opt for quality and seamless options, and wear moisture-wicking underwear for physical activities. Styling choices like longer tops, skirts, or dresses can also help conceal camel toe while keeping you stylish and comfortable.
In the end, the key to avoiding camel toe in tights is all about finding the right balance between fit, fabric, and activity. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the flexibility that tights bring to your wardrobe without any worries. So, go ahead, slip into your favorite pair of tights, and step out with comfort and confidence.
