Carrying concealed is about more than choosing the right firearm— it’s about ensuring your clothing keeps you safe, discreet, and prepared. 

The wrong outfit can expose your weapon, restrict your movement, or slow your draw when seconds matter. 

To ensure responsible gun ownership while concealed carrying, every gunowner needs to know how to dress effectively, avoid common mistakes, and adapt their wardrobe to every season and lifestyle.  

The way you dress directly affects your safety and effectiveness when carrying a firearm. Concealed carry clothing is about three key principles: 

Safety: Clothing should allow quick, safe access to your firearm without snagging. 

Discretion: Poor clothing choices can cause “printing” (when the outline of your gun shows through). 

Responsibility: Dressing responsibly minimizes public alarm and helps you comply with state and workplace rules. 

A 2024 survey by the Crime Prevention Research Center found that around  22 million Americans carry concealed daily. In crowded spaces, discretion is critical for avoiding unnecessary confrontations.

Shirts & Tops

The best shirts for concealed carry are those that break up outlines and allow natural movement: 

Button-downs & polos: Structured fabrics reduce printing. 

Untucked t-shirts: Offer casual concealment but must be sized correctly. 

Compression shirts: Secure the firearm but may restrict draw speed.  

Outerwear is one of the most versatile concealment tools:

Blazers or vests: Ideal for professional settings. 

Lightweight jackets: Great for layering in spring and fall. 

Winter coats: Provide maximum concealment but can slow your draw. 

Women’s clothing generally fits a bit more snug, so it is especially important to consider the impact outwear has on women’s ability to properly conceal carry.  

Bottom wear supports your entire setup: 

Tactical pants: Reinforced loops and deep pockets. 

Gun belts: Prevent sagging and improve holster stability. 

Holster clothing: Works best with sturdy waistbands for IWB or OWB carry.  

Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Carry

IWB is the most common concealed carry method.

• Works best with untucked shirts. 

• Appendix carry improves access but can reduce comfort when sitting. 

• Can't angle adjustments help balance concealment with draw speed. 

Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) Carry

OWB offers comfort but requires longer clothing and potentially more layers to conceal. 

• Jackets or long shirts hide the holster. 

• Better retention but higher risk of accidental exposure. 

Pocket & Alternative Carry

For smaller firearms or lifestyle-specific needs: 

Pocket carry: Requires deep pockets and a dedicated holster. It is NOT recommended or advised to carry a concealed loose in your pocket. 

Off-body carry (bags/purses): Increases convenience but reduces retention.  

Wearing the right outfit is only part of the equation— you must practice with it and learn the weaknesses of your normal wear. 

Jacket seems to get snagged a lot? Consider a different one or wear it in a way that works with concealed carry. 

Belt feeling loose? Tighten it up or purchase a concealed carry appropriate belt. 

No matter what you wear, practicing in your normal wear is key. 

• Train draws with your daily outfit, not just range gear. 

• Practice bending, sitting, and moving to ensure clothing doesn’t interfere. 

• Retention drills help confirm your holster stays in place during sudden movement. 

Training is the pathway to preparedness. To truly ensure you are prepared in a self-defense incident, you must practice until you can’t get it wrong. Then, you go and train some more.  

Concealed Carry in Summer

Lightweight, breathable fabrics help in hot weather, but you must take into account the effect less or loose clothing will have on your ability to conceal carry. 

• Loose t-shirts, polos, and performance fabrics reduce discomfort. 

• Shorts require strong belts for stability. 

Concealed Carry in Winter 

Cold weather allows easier concealment but can slow your draw. Practice makes perfect to ensure the effect wearing bulkier clothes while conceal carrying is minimized. 

• Layering with hoodies, coats, and gloves requires extra training. 

• Consider holster positions that work under heavy layers. 

Professional vs. Casual Settings 

Workplace and lifestyle matter. Professional attire usually involves a lot of layers and provide a good outfit for conceal carry, while you must be more thoughtful in casual wear. 

• Professional: Suit jackets, blazers, and dress shirts. 

• Casual: Jeans, polos, untucked shirts. 

Always adapt your holster to your setting, not just your gun. Most outfits can be configured for conceal carry, but learning what works best for you takes time and practice. 

While there are no strict dress codes, laws still matter:

• Some workplaces ban firearms entirely, regardless of concealment. 

• States differ on carry rules in professional or government settings. 

• Traveling across state lines requires awareness of reciprocity laws. 

While your dress code isn’t regulated, your firearm surely is, so make sure you are legal no matter where you go and don’t get caught up in an avoidable legal situation. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Dressing for Concealment 

• Wearing tight shirts that print your firearm. 

• Choosing flimsy belts that sag. 

• Placing holsters in unsafe or uncomfortable positions. 

• Ignoring mobility: if you can’t bend or sit comfortably, rethink your setup.