Women's Style Guide: How to Conceal Carry in Spring

Spring Carry: Challenges

The fluctuating temperatures and breezy days common to Spring can complicate concealed carry. For example, your firearm might hide well under a cardigan or jacket in the morning, but as the day warms up, you may need to shed a layer. This may or may not affect your concealment.  

On top of that, lightweight and airy fabrics are stylish for Spring, but they can cling or shift in the wind, potentially revealing your firearm’s outline.

As the weather warms up, we also tend to spend more time outdoors. Spring’s social scene, from outdoor picnics to evening strolls, also means more movement and attention, requiring a holster that stays hidden and secure.

Practical Solutions

Fortunately, you can overcome these challenges with intentional choices. To start, it’s helpful to understand the basic concealment principles, and how to make the holster work with your body. Try experimenting with holster placement to ensure your firearm sits flush against your body, staying discreet without extra layers.

When it comes to windy days, incorporate thicker, breathable tops into your wardrobe. I actually designed a top to help with this problem - the concealment camisole is constructed with special panels to reduce printing and boost your confidence.

I also recommend using a concealed carry purse as a backup holster. If you find yourself in a situation where your gun becomes visible, instead of panicking, you can secretly transfer it to the specialized bag.

Concealment Camisole

SPRING WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

T-SHIRTS AND TANKS:

There are many factors that affect concealment, such as the holster you use, how big your firearm is, placement of the gun on your body, and the clothing you choose.  From my perspective, some days concealment feels effortless, while others—due to body changes, a hectic morning, or an outfit that doesn’t quite work—can present more of a challenge.

To stay ready for those tougher days, I recommend adding 2-5 “easy concealment tops” to your capsule wardrobe. These are your go-to pieces that reliably conceal your firearm with minimal effort and look great layered under a jacket or sweater.

When shopping for these tops, focus on cut, texture, and pattern. Choose cuts that flatter your body type and provide enough room to hide your firearm, like those I highlight in my article, Best Shirts for Women’s Concealed Carry.

Remember that sizing up could be an option, but while the oversized look is cool on some body types, it has the potential to make others look sloppy.

Equally important, is the use of texture and pattern. These elements can distract the eye and camouflage your firearm’s outline, keeping you discreet.

Wondering if fitted shirts are off-limits? Not at all! With the right setup, you can still conceal your firearm. Pair a fitted shirt with a belly band holster, where the compression often smooths the lines. You could also, try a tight top with a skirt and a thigh holster for on-body carry. If you need extra coverage, add a cardigan for concealment.

LAYERING PIECES

Layers are great for concealment, but make sure your gun doesn’t print if you have to take it off!

To make layering work for your lifestyle, consider the settings you’ll be in—whether it’s a chilly office, an outdoor barbecue, the gym, or a lakeside stroll.

For instance, a light pullover sweater, cardigan, or blazer works beautifully for the office, while a windbreaker is ideal for ballgames, and a hooded rain jacket keeps you covered during outdoor events.

For more polished occasions, like church or a nice outing, a trench coat adds sophistication and concealment. On a beach vacation, a linen button-up shirt can serve as a breezy, stylish layer.

Thoughtfully select versatile layers that you can mix and match to create multiple outfits.

You Are Loved Kydex Holster

It’s common to prioritize concealment when choosing a holster, but how accessible your gun is, is even more important. Arguably, appendix carry allows for the quickest and easiest access in case of an emergency. A kydex holster attached to a belt is an example of appendix carry.

By placing the gun in front of your body, you have more control and can protect it from potential threats. Additionally, with arms at your side, your hands are naturally closer to your appendix, making it easier to draw your firearm quickly. Since a kydex holster keeps it’s shape, it’s easy to draw and holster your firearm. Plus, the hard material protects the trigger from accidental discharge.

This setup performs well, however if it feels bulky, try adjusting for better concealment. For example, adding a wing to your holster can help tuck the grip of the gun closer to you. You could also adjust the position by moving the holster along your beltline. Some women prefer the gun on their side, while others conceal better with the holster closer to their bellybutton.  

Tip- With concealment dialed in, you may be able to conceal under fitted or semi-fitted shirts. Otherwise, pair this holster with your “easy concealment tops” from the ‘Spring Essentials’ section above.

BELTLESS RECEIVER

The Neomag beltless receiver is a unique, belt-free holster attachment that I'm currently testing. It secures your preferred Kydex holster to a flexible band that conforms to your body's curves.

The band features two Ulticlips, one at each end, which clip directly to the fabric of your waistband—whether pants, leggings, shorts, sweatpants, or possibly a skirt. The clips distribute the firearm's weight across the band, but your clothing must be tight or structured enough to support it effectively.

The benefits of this setup include a hard trigger cover, placement of the gun for quick access, and it doesn’t require a belt so you can wear with a variety of clothing.