Concealed Carry In A Dress

I wrote one of my most popular blog posts in August of 2018, which was about concealed carry in a dress. A lot has changed since then, so it’s about time for an update! First, I’ve switched from carrying a Ruger LCP to the slightly larger SIG P365. Second, I’ve switched my primary thigh holster from the leg band made by Can Can Concealment to the spandex shorts with a built-in holster made by Dene Adams. I want to point out that both are viable options, I just decided the shorts are more comfortable for me.

In 2018 I was concerned about wearing the Can Can Concealment thigh holster tight enough that it wouldn’t fall down. As a result, it sometimes would pinch my skin and even cut off some circulation. I had to decide whether to wear it on the inside or outside of my leg but either way, the band chaffed my other leg when I walked. Plus, when I wore it on the outside, I occasionally ran the gun into furniture and made the sound of clinking metal. I considered these minor inconveniences and a normal part of concealed carry.

However, since switching to the Dene Adams thigh holster shorts, I really haven’t had these problems. The shorts fit snugly but they’re not too tight and they never pinch. I chose a pair with the holster pocket on the inside of the leg, which works for me even though I don’t have a thigh gap. My favorite feature is that both legs are covered by slippery material that glides and prevents chaffing.

The largest gun I’ve carried on my thigh is the Smith & Wesson, M & P Shield but the holster would allow for an even larger gun. Just as before, I can still cross my legs and, assuming the dress is long enough, the gun remains concealed.

I personally don’t feel comfortable using this method in a mini skirt, but if the skirt hits just above the knees or is longer, it provides adequate concealment. Plus, if the dress rides up, the shorts add a sense of modesty and people are likely to assume the garment is just shapewear.

A while back, someone on the news suggested that women can’t carry a gun because they wear dresses. Ridiculous. Let me address the doubters – at this point concealing in a dress is almost effortless for me and if I can learn how to do it, so can other women. I say this without minimizing the responsibility associated with carrying a gun.

As with any holster, I recommend practicing your draw with the various types dresses and skirts you wear. I have found subtle differences in pulling a gun from a pencil skirt, A-line skirt, maxi skirt, etc. For example, with the dress pictured above, I must lift two layers of material, while also making sure the ruffle doesn’t get in the way. Start by practicing with an unloaded gun or a rubber gun to make sure you can draw safely and get comfortable with the fundamentals of shooting before training with live ammo.

Check out the Thigh Holster Classic and the Thigh Holster 2.0

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