Dressing for Discretion this Summer

NorthShore Care Supply July 23, 2024

For those living with incontinence, rising temps don’t have to mean rising anxiety.

With summer in full swing, everything “cool” is officially in. Looking cool and staying cool – all while keeping your cool – are everyone’s top priorities. But for those with moderate to heavy incontinence, necessary and sometimes higher absorbency products can add an additional wrinkle to the daily question of what to wear.

But stress not! NorthShore Care Supply has got your back (and backside), and we have the perfect style solutions to keep you cool, calm, and confident this summer. Because, at the end of the day, wearing incontinence products should only ever make you feel more comfortable – never less.

Tip #1: (Breathable) layers are key for summer.

Sometimes it’s not the extra “bulk” of the diaper that’s the problem as much as it is the added texture. In the same way that traditional shapewear** helps smooth out the body for clothing to drape better, an extra body-skimming layer worn over your diaper can help hide its tell-tale bumps and creases.

This is especially helpful for those managing heavier leaks, as these layers can provide additional security and peace of mind. However, in the summer months, this extra layer technique only works if it’s lightweight and breathable. After all, our number one goal is staying dry… and sweaty is not dry.

Our recommendations:

ThighSociety “slip shorts” offer an extra layer of extremely light weight, sweat-wicking coverage.
Lululemon “shortie underwear” are breathable and gently smoothing.
NorthShore Trifecta Waterproof Underwear Covers provide a bit of smoothing and anti-sagging support while also acting as an extra barrier against leaks.

** Unlike shapewear, it’s important to choose an extra layer that is not too tight or restrictive, as this could impede your absorbent product from working correctly. The goal is gentle smoothing, not “sucking anything in.” The above recommendations are the perfect “not too tight” types of solution.

Tip #2: Pattern “Camouflage.”

You’re familiar with the term, “sleight of hand,” but have you ever tried sleight of style? Dressing in fun and vibrant patterns is a great way to hide the shape of your incontinence gear in plain sight. We also love this technique, because it’s a great reminder that you are so much more than your incontinence! Take the opportunity to show off your personality this summer with an interesting print or pattern, and we promise the compliments will start rolling in.

Our recommendations:

For women, the options are near endless, but nothing says “relaxed summer chic” than a gorgeous striped set. These shorts are great on their own or with the matching top. Thin vertical stripes add natural dimension and movement to the fabric, acting as the perfect camouflage for high capacity incontinence products.
A beautifully patterned skirt is another great discretion-friendly summer option. This Kohl’s button-down midi is airy and lightweight enough to keep you comfortable (and confident!) on even the hottest summer day.
And for men, while the options aren’t quite as abundant, there are still plenty of attractive possibilities to choose from. And nothing beats an easy chino short in the summer!
For something a little dressier, this creative take on khaki shorts can take you easily from day to night. And plaid shorts are a great staple for any man’s closet.

Tip #3: Choose a shape that flatters.

Lastly, a final tried-and-true way to disguise those highly absorbent incontinence products while staying comfortable in the summer heat is to amp up the volume everywhere else! Structured clothing is the perfect way to make a summer statement and add a bit of room to breathe between your undergarments and garment-garments.

For women, high-waisted A-line skirts are a great way to achieve this effect. And for men, we like anything with pleats and a fabric that can hold its shape.

Our recommendations:

There’s actually nothing we don’t love about these Madewell navy pleated shorts. The cotton-hemp blended fabric offers a polished, but still comfortable fit. And the deep blue provides a bit more discretion potential than a standard khaki or other lighter colored shorts.
This simple shift dress is the essence of easy summer dressing, and we want it in every color.
Volume? Check. Structure? Check. Pattern? Check. This Anthropologie midi ticks every box.

We will be the first to admit that dealing with heavy incontinence is not exactly “fun,” but the rest of your life still should be! And the best thing you can wear this summer is whatever helps you feel like your best self. We know that staying dry and leak-free (read: worry-free) is just one piece of that puzzle, but it’s an important piece and we are so happy to provide support wherever and however we can.

If you need extra help or have any other questions about what products are best for you and your type of incontinence, don’t hesitate to contact our customer support team online or give us a call at 800.563.0161.

Additionally, you can take advantage of our sample program to find your favorite fit.