As seen in Concealed Carry Magazine

When practicing concealed carry, there’s an emphasis on the word “concealed.” Many women don’t want others to know they’re carrying a firearm, and for a good reason! It’s essential to keep the gun hidden so you’ll always have the element of surprise, but is this easier said than done? If you want to conceal like a seasoned pro, keep reading! Here are eight concealed carry fashion hacks that every gun girl should know.

Static Cling

Static cling is an enemy to concealment, and with materials like wool, silk, polyester, and rayon, it’s all too common. This is especially true if you live where the air is dry. Combat static cling by pinning a few safety pins to your jeans, the holster, or a tank top under your shirt. This tiny lighting rod will discharge the electricity and help you avoid embarrassment. You can also attach a few pins to clothes before tossing them into the dryer to prevent static as they tumble dry. It’s an inexpensive method you can use repeatedly.

Structured clothing

Clothing made of stiff fabric is very effective at concealing your gun. This could be a collared dress shirt, a blazer, or a shirt made of poplin. To keep items crisp, thoroughly spritz with starch spray before ironing.

Concealment Wedge

The challenge with concealing in various outfits is that the gun doesn’t always lay the same way. With one ensemble, the gun may press against your body, but with another, the grip of the gun may tilt away from your torso. One solution is to purchase a concealment wedge and place this between the muzzle of the gun and your body to press the grip closer to you. In a rut with no wedge handy? Try using a rolled-up sock for a quick fix.

Tie a jacket

Keeping a jacket or hoodie on hand can prepare you for unexpected events that blow your cover. For example, spilling water on a white t-shirt or stepping outside on a windy day may compromise your concealment. Putting the jacket on or tying it around your waist can be a lifesaver. I like to have one with me when I hike, even if the weather is too warm for an extra layer. Tying it around my waist conceals any printing that may occur as I move around during the hike.

Styling

Use these styling tricks if jeans and a t-shirt are your jam! The half-tuck involves tucking in only half of the front of your shirt. This will cause the fabric to billow and make space for your gun to hide. Another technique, the side knot, creates folds of material that will camouflage your firearm. Avoid stretching out your t-shirt by using a clear elastic band to gather the material and mimic a knot.

Bandeau Bra

I get it; comfort is a priority when wearing a firearm all day! An easy way to protect your skin from chaffing is to put a layer of fabric between you and the gun. You can do this by wearing a bandeau bra around your hips or torso. These can be found in most department stores or online. Another option is tuck a tank top behind your gun for added comfort.

Illusion

Just like a magician, make your gun disappear! By layering a lace or patterned sheer blouse over a compressive tank top, create the illusion that nothing is underneath. Without a second layer, your compressive tank top would show an outline of the gun, but a patterned top distracts the eye and distorts any printing.

Purse Carry

If you carry in a purse, you probably know there’s a right side and a wrong side to reach in for your gun. After all, you want to grab the grip, not the barrel. To make the right side obvious, tie a stylish scarf to the strap of your bag. Make a mental note to always situate the purse with the scarf side facing out. This way, the bag is always in position for a quick, smooth draw.

I hope these hacks make concealing your firearm a little easier and keep you both comfortable and stylish as you protect yourself and your family.