Learn from my mistakes # 130 – Do you have the wrong wardrobe?Have you been wearing the wrong things all this time and not known it?
Nothing says sexy like a confident woman! Confidence shows up when you know what your wearing looks awesome, you’re “dressed to the 9’s”, your perfectly put together outfit is the bomb! You strive for this every day and it does get you stand a little taller and walk with intention and purpose…. And that makes you an unlikely target!
The confidence, sense of empowerment that comes from knowing you can save your life (or even someone else’s) is why you made the decision to carry of self defense tools. More specifically, to carry a firearm concealed either on your body (preferred) or off body in a purse or attaché’ case.
My goal is to make it easy for you to get your day started off right by being prepared. Be armed, fashionable, and yes, knock out gorgeous!
After three months of lock down, I bet your ready to start wearing something other than leggings, shorts or lounge pants. Now is the perfect time to consider your wardrobe!
But before we get to the closet, let’s take a good look in the mirror. Do you know what are your best colors to wear? Once upon a time, “season” was the buzz word in selecting what to wear.
Let’s break this down, knowing or understanding your skin tone is the key to unlocking how to dress to look & feel your best! Which translate in to building confidence.
I’m sure you know what I mean, let’s say you have an important meeting or interview, what’s the number one garment you always go to? I’ll bet the color of that garment is within your “season”.
You know what feels good on you. If you’re not sure, it’s the color of something you’re wearing when you always get compliments. It looks good on you and you feel good about how you look in it.
So, let’s wash up and let’s take a good look in the mirror!
What you’re after is the UNDERTONES of your SKIN TONE.
Option 1. Remove makeup, lotions, etc. and wash your face (wait about 20 min. after washing your face so there’s no redness). Really look at your face undertones in your skin. It’s best to use natural daylight to examine your skin tone, as artificial lighting can change the appearance of your skin’s undertones. (Your skin tone is actually determined by the undertones that come through). If you use terms such as fair, medium or deep – that describes your skin tone, not the undertones.
Another place to look to determine your undertone color is to look at your palm and wrist. Look for the color of your veins, again in natural daylight is ideal.
warm skin = greenish looking veins.
cool skin = blue or purplish looking veins
neutral skin = if it’s hard to tell color of your veins
Option 2. Another option is to determine your Skin tone. If you can’t decide or it’s not easy to see your undertones, use a plain white piece of paper and hold it next to your face. Now, compare how your skin (color) looks in contrast to the paper.
If your skin looks yellowish, greenish, or light brown, then you likely have a warm skin tone.
If your skin looks pink, rosy, or blue, then you have a cool skin tone.
If your skin looks gray or ashen, then you are a neutral skin tone.
If you have a skin condition like acne, rosacea, or if you are extremely tanned, ask a friend to use the paper test on the crease behind your ear instead, which is less likely to be affected by these variables.
An undertone is influenced by either YELLOW or BLUE. That is:
YELLOW is WARM
and
BLUE is COOL
Once you know what your undertones are, it becomes a lot easier to select the best make up colors and clothes that complement your skin.
Option 3. Since it’s summer, what happens to your skin when you’re in the sun? Do you tan easily? Chances are you have warm skin tones. Those with warm undertones have skin that lends to yellow, gold and peachy shades
And, people who burn rather than tan usually have cool skin tones, although sometimes women with dark ebony skin that doesn’t burn can also have cool undertones.
People who are neutral may fall into either group with regards to tanning or burning, but neutrals will not have any obvious appearance of olive, yellow, or ruddy skin.
Once you know your undertones, we’ll divide this into two groups -1) less intense, lighter tones and 2) more intense, stronger and darker undertones. These two parts are referred to as “seasons”.
If you’re in the “Cool” family, your seasons are Summer and Winter. So, you’ll want to stick to colors with blue undertones such as a blue-green, or a blue-red, rose-brown, cool neutrals such as pure white, gray, black and taupe.
I fall into the warm family, but also feel as I’ve aged and I’m not in the sun as much, I also tend toward neutral.
If you’re in the “Warm” family, our seasons are Spring and Autumn. We have yellow or golden undertones. Our best colors are orange, teal, olive, rust and warm neutrals like ivory, eggshell, camel and chocolate brown.
If you think about what nature provides during her seasons, those are the colors that suit you best! Of course, you can wear what you want but to show case the best you, choose colors according to your skin tone season. Now you know the best colors for you to wear. You’ll look amazing!
Now that we’re getting into warmer weather and less layers, you may find
concealed carry a bit more challenging now.
One option is moving to a smaller pistol that’s easier to hide.
If that option’s not for you, your still in luck! As luck would have it, great features like ruffles and use of asymmetrical lines (or hems) work to minimize printing of the firearm. With these features now in style, you can buy clothes that FIT YOU and not oversized JUST to conceal that gun.
Since we’re talking about summer weather, look for cotton fabrics, such as seersucker, and linen that will help to keep you cool due to their lighter weight and breath-ability.
We offer several concealed carry dresses (in cotton) that will help to beat that summertime heat while carrying. We’ve designed our dresses for carrying at one’s waist which is the most ideal location. Because of this, we suggest use of a bellyband holster with our dresses.
Many women find that a thigh holster is useful for wearing with Sundresses. A lot of ladies like wearing dresses specially during summer months because they are cooler when the temperatures soar.
It’s important thing to practice your draw when you carry. When carrying in a dress, remember it’s going to take two hands and a big grab of fabric to lift your skirt to be able to get to your gun, if it’s needed. You may want to consider a taser or pepper spray as another alternative for self defense.
If you’re not the dress wearing type, but more of “separates” dresser; select tops that are loose-fitting. A summertime bonus is it’ll help keep you cool when a nice breeze blows by :).
For me, any time is color time- it makes me happy.
If you’re not a fan of color or patterns, try to keep in mind this will assist (you) in camouflaging your weapon and that’s got to make you happy!
Below, I pair brown slacks with a 2 piece top Salmon top made specifically for concealed carry. Even though most would consider Brown to be more of a winter color, but this isn’t a dark chocolate brown but a muted brown and the fabric is lightweight cotton. Nude sandals keep it summery fresh.
Bright colorful tops with darker bottoms work if a lightweight fabric such as this.
Confidence starts on the inside, so make that decision that you look fabulous in colors!
A pair of white pants are a summer favorite for many. White is perfect with anything, even a white top, for a classic monochromatic look. Mix in a splash of sunshine with a colorful scarf or brightly colored accessories.
White denim is one of my favorite summertime go to.
Do you practically live in jeans? This raw edge (or hem) is popping up like flowers. Look for jeans with some stretch for added comfort. A few rips and some fringe gives a distressed, well worn appearance. Espadrille, flat sandals complement this look for date night or the office, while sneakers keep it more casual.
distressed look & cas
Of course, you can’t go wrong with black & white. Make it pop for Spring with colorful accessories. We have anew Tank that blends these two worlds. It’s black & white Striated texture is a master of disguise! It’s perfect to wear under any button down blouse.
Preview of 505 Tank in the making
This top’s unique opening makes it a MUST HAVE for the world traveler to keep those pesky pick-pocketers away! Look for our 505 Tank Top holster (sizes XS- XL) at the USCCA Concealed Carry Expo in a few weeks. Available for pre ordering now.
While, there aren’t any rules for fashion, what does matter is your confidence and having the good proportions for that perfect #OOTD (outfit of the day).
Incognito Wear IX knows that warmer months can be challenging to concealed carry. You don’t have to buy larger size clothes to hide your pistol, you can still find some ways to stay stylish, fashionable and feminine.
With Mother’s Day coming up this weekend, we found a link that might help with some last minute gift ideas for Mother’s Day.
However, the best Mother’s Day gift is teaching Mom how to protect herself. Sign Mom up for a firearm safety class and a trip to the range with you!
While you may be excited to talk about Golf, that wasn’t quite what I had in mind…
Last week we talked about “shooting handicaps”. Do you have any concerns about your form or stance when shooting? Perhaps, you received a pistol for Christmas and are just starting your journey discovering the wonderful world of shooting . We hope by sharing our story, it will keep you on a straighter path; i.e. less costly mistakes.
Gun shopping is not like shopping most women are a custom to. For starters, you not likely to find this type of store at the Mall. So it may take a bit of planning for this type of shopping trip. Unlike things one may purchase at the mall, with guns once you buy it – it’s yours!
If you decide later that you don’t like the gun, there isn’t really a “Return Policy”. The Return Policy is up to you and how you want to sell it. So be sure before you buy- unless you’re into collecting guns and your income stream can support your habit ?.
Several things I didn’t realize when I was “trying on” i.e gripping and handled the pistol at the store…. I didn’treally hold it as in anticipation of shooting it down range.
First, I felt really self-conscious about gun shopping and trying to hold the gun, pull the trigger while not pointing the barrel toward any of the other customers all around me.
Secondly, I inadvertently adjusted my grip (and or wrist) around the grip of the pistol so that I could pull the trigger. This is my handicap – small hands and I have since realized finding a firearm for me will prove to be challenging shopping experience. Limp wristing is a good way to get malfunctions
Now, not all of this was realized purely by going to the range. It was through classes and drills of some likely self defense scenarios, that all the pieces began fitting together and the picture became clearer. Another reason why training and practice are important.
Single stack vs. Double stack – graphic /pintrest
Important finding (for me)- I cannot shoot a gun that has a double stack magazine. Not without having a malfunction. A double stack magazine means the grip is going to be bigger. “Double stack” refers to how the bullets line up within the magazine and typically holds about 13-15 rounds. This is good in one sense. More bullets = better protection, right? Also, it makes the gun heavier and therefore, less recoil, which is ideal. But for me, it means more malfunctions. Some might argue this is a good drill to work on clearing malfunctions ?.
So, are you a double stack or single stack gun owner? That
depends on YOU.
Some guns have interchangeable back straps that can help for smaller hands. However, you still need to have enough (of your index) finger to pull the trigger.
From the graphic above, you can see how the placement of your trigger finger effects the placement of the bullet on the target. The slightest adjustments can have less desirable results.
So, when shopping for a gun, remember to consider placement of your trigger finger, grip and your wrist. It’s not just about being able to pull the trigger… you want to hit what you aim for. (Important to remember ever bullet has a name on it).
It’s been awhile since we spoke. I know this is a very busy time with baseball, gardening, garage sales, weddings and graduations to plan and attend. Have you made a plan of how you will carry? And what you will wear?
What, if any, restrictions on guns are there for the venues for such special events that you will be attending? I am thankful to have been able to attend my own daughter’s graduation this last week. Here is a resource to verify statereciprocity laws.
crowds
As I write this thinking of celebratory events and happy times to look forward to, the news breaks in with an overwhelming sobering thought of just how short life is. At an event in the UK – Ariana Grande concert, the unthinkable happened… again. My heart goes out to those whose lives have instantly been turned inside out & upside down and many stricken with grief and sadness.
While it is tragic, it is a call to action and to train. This is why we learn how to shoot; why we concealed carry. It is a reason for starting Incognito Wear IX – so that you don’t have an excuse to not be armed. That is “not having anything to wear” and to be able to conceal a weapon-with the assumption that it is permitted by law.
So, what kind of clothing do you want to wear with your firearm?
We want your input! Here are some of our newest designs. Please let us know what you want, what you would like us to make. These Ready to Wear fashion clothes have a hidden access to your firearm and allow for a singular hand draw.
A – Trinity Aztec print
B – Cris Cross 1 pc jersey, cross body draw with one hand
C – Weekender lightweight Aztec print
Let us know what you like, or don’t like. Tell us about your clothing needs so we can keep you armed. We are waiting to hear your thoughts and your input on what to manufacture (selection(s) A, B, C) & sizes (S/M/L or numerical). Email Jan!
What is this #IWIX thing? I don’t really get it? Why do I need special clothing to Concealed Carry?
For me, it was my first time carrying on body. But first, how did I arrive at this idea?
I took the basic courses and joined a lady’s group at my range to learn more about shooting and carrying concealed. There are options for women who want to carry a concealed handgun, only what I found were mostly for in-purse carry; or for first responders, and the typical tactical clothing or “shooting” clothes.
I already felt like there was a neon sign above my head flashing “she’s got a gun”! I didn’t want my clothes to say it either! The whole idea about concealed carry is that you’re hiding in plain sight, right? i.e. to be “INCOGNITO”. Wala!
Oh, I’d carry a gun in a purse, but that got heavy. And I would have to be very careful about where I set my purse down and worry about someone else going through it, finding it and discovering a gun. Fortunately, my children were young adults and I didn’t have to worry about that aspect. But many do, and should be concerned about what they do or where they leave their purse if they are carrying a gun in it. Or for that matter, if it gets stolen!
So, I spent several hours looking through my closet, finding nothing to wear.
What do you wear to hide a gun or how do you dress around a firearm? This was so new to me and no one really talked about what kind of clothes you needed to shop for in order to keep this ‘thing’ hidden but readily accessible.
So, off I went to the mall. But this time, I really didn’t need the excuse that I don’t have “anything to wear”. Not that my husband would have minded. Women love to shop, it’s really a social thing for us. My goal was to find clothing that was fashionable, but would also discreetly concealed a handgun. There just wasn’t anything suitable. I shopped online – Again, not much there in the way of clothing.
In my women’s shooting group class, I heard several women talking about having to work late or travel and some scary scenarios they might encounter – and what to do; how to respond – just in case. Of course, first and foremost is learning how to be situational aware of your surrounding environment.
I wonder, just how do you carry a gun in a dress?
I mean, you’re a working professional, executive, business women with a need to be fashionable and well dressed…And to be able to protect/defend yourself if something horrible arose.
I contemplated about what kind of clothes that would fit this need. The need to have work clothes for one, and two, clothing perfect for concealment of a firearm that (I) would feel that my gun wouldn’t print (through). You know, to make choosing something to wear easy; to pick out clothing to go with my gun. The goal in all of this would be to provide some type of clothing to remove any hassle of dressing for concealment, to empower you for every day carry. Surely, picking out something to wear shouldn’t take 30 or more minutes.
So, I think of it in terms of finding that perfect necklace, pair of earrings, or shoes that make the outfit – complete. That thing that makes you feel as good as you look! We are all want to feel beautiful, and be stylish with or without our gun.
This adds a whole new dimension to making a fashion statement.
Concealed carry is more than just being able to defend your life or that of another human being. We recognize the danger and power of carrying a loaded firearm, and what could happen if we are forced to defend our self, draw it, or even fire it. The rights given to us by the 2nd Amendment aren’t taken lightly, but with the utmost of respect.
For those who don’t get this whole gun tote’n thing, it’s not the law-abiding folks that you ought to be concerned about, but the one who don’t respect the law and authority.
Just because some people don’t swim, they don’t know how to, or were never taught, doesn’t mean that swimmers shouldn’t have specialized clothing. Bathing suits or swimsuits are specialized garments. Just because you may not want to swim doesn’t mean a swimsuit shouldn’t be made available for those who do.
There are an awful lot of people who love to swim and need swimsuits!
The same is true for those who believe in the 2nd Amendment, and want to concealed carry. They need specialized clothing too.
So, this is how Incognito Wear IXcame about. I set out to make some specializedclothes – casual tops, Maxi dress (that’s perfect for spring) and a professional work-wear dress giving 3 optional carry positions, a patterned tunic top, and soon to be developing pants and jeans. Even though men’s regularly available clothing is easier to conceal in, they too need specialized clothing. We are providing new clothing options for the concealed carrier that hasn’t been available- and especially for a growing group of women who are getting their concealed carry permits and carry on a regular basis.
We’d love to hear from you and how you carry or what obstacles you have overcome in order to protect yourself and loved ones in exercising your 2nd Amendment rights. Connect with us on social media:facebook, instagram, twitter, pintrest
