HEALTH

There are certain clothing rules we can totally break. (Wearing white after Labor Day? Whatever.) Others, though, we should probably stick to—like wearing breathable undies. And while your fave leggings and new pair of PJs might not seem like they’re going to get you sick, they could be doing your bod some major damage without you even knowing it. To help keep your wardrobe healthy, we’re zeroing in on the most harmful clothing habits...and what you can do to look cute without any added consequences.

Skintight jeans
The problem: Skinny jeans compress the nerves within your legs and groin, leaving you with muscle damage and swelling. Skinnies also promote infection in cuts and other inflammations because your skin is in constant, close contact with fabric.
The solution: Buy skinny jeans that offer more stretch (go for fabric blends that include spandex or other stretchy fabrics). And if you know you’ll be doing a lot of bending over, swap your skinnies out for a pair a leggings. Prolonged squatting in skinny jeans can lead to pinched nerves.

Bathing suits
The problem: A wet, warm bathing suit bottom is the perfect environment to develop yeast infections. Yuck.
The solution: Keep a dry pair of bottoms on hand when you’re headed to the pool, and change 'em out if you know you won't be hopping back in the water anytime soon.

Rompers
The problem: Even though rompers can cut your morning prep time in half, they double the amount of time it takes to use the restroom. And if you don’t feel like completely stripping down every time you have to pee, you might be inclined to hold it in—thus causing pain and stress in the pelvis and back. Even worse? If you continue to hold it in, you can end up with a bladder infection.
The solution: The best way to solve your bladder issues would be to avoid wearing a romper altogether, but who wants to do that? Instead, make sure you’re staying hydrated and using the bathroom regularly (every three hours). Even though it might seem like a pain, your bladder will thank you.

High heels and flip flops
The problem: If you’re brave enough to wear heels a few times a week, you could be causing imbalance in your ankle muscles, making you more prone to serious injury. If you’re switching to flip flops instead of sky-high heels, on the other hand, you could still be in trouble. Not only do flip flops expose your feet to bacteria and fungi, they lack arch support, which can cause heel pain, poor posture and disfigured toes. Yikes.
The solution: If you’re worried about your ankles being totally ruined by heels, try doing toe lifts to strengthen the muscles in your ankles and feet. (Simply stand barefoot and come onto your tippy toes, then repeat!) To protect feet in those flip flops, swap your sandals for some closed-toe shoes or seek out specially-made, sturdier flops.

What body struggles does your clothing cause? Have you ever had to change your wardrobe to avoid health issues? Let us know!  

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by Mallory Walker | 3/10/2018