Elastic bands are becoming very popular in clothing. They help make clothes flexible and fit easily. Simply put, they make clothing that fits all, especially bras and underwear. They also make the clothing more stretchy and comfortable. This article will discuss 6 different uses of elastic clothing bands. So, let’s get started!
What are Elastic Clothing Bands?
Before discussing uses, let’s first look at these elastic bands.
Elastic clothing bands are small strips made of rubber or fabric. This strip is stretchy and remains covered with fabric. So it makes the clothing more comfortable, flexible and easy to fit on everyone. Modern bras, skirts, pants, and waistbands come with these elastic bands.
Have you ever noticed how a tracksuit trouser stays firm at the waist? It does not use a belt, etc. Moreover, many pants don’t have a belt, but they grip well on the waist. The magic lies in the use of elastic clothing bands. These bands are stretchy, so they keep the pants in one place and do not allow them to sag down.
Fitting clothes is generally a big problem for many people. You buy pants, and it fits well. But after time, you gain weight, and your pants don’t fit properly. However, pants with elastic bands don’t cause these issues. You can wear them no matter if you are skinny or have gained weight. This is the most significant benefit of using the elastic clothing band.
These bands are new and have been in use since the 1800s. However, initially, their primary making material was rubber. These bands were only used in corsets and suspenders. However, things have changed. In the 20th century, some elastic bands also came with spandex materials. Currently, their usage is widespread across different clothing.
6 Different Uses of Elastic Clothing Band
The elastic bands have different types that vary from each other in terms of weaving methods. Remember, the manufacturing of these bands is done through various methods. Moreover, the useability of each band is also different. The section below will explore some popular uses of these elastic clothing bands. So, let’s get started!
1- Baby Clothes Waist & Leg Areas
Babies’ clothes must be very comfortable. So, manufacturers use the elastic band on the waist and leg areas of the babies. They benefit big time by creating comfort and ease. During movement, the ban on legs does not hinder the movement.
Moreover, babies move continuously and uncontrollably. So, these bands keep the cloth in place and don’t allow it to get loose. Remember, these bands are not too tight to cause any trouble for babies. Above all, removing the clothes with an elastic band is very easy. This is a big plus for mothers as babies require a dress change more frequently.
2- Sportswear and Activewear for Flexibility
Almost all sportswear has elastic clothing bands. Have you ever seen tennis players in shorts? Those are called tennis shorts and have elastic clothing. These bands keep the shorts tight at the waist. These bands are not only used in tennis shorts.
In fact, athletes wear clothes with bands for different sports. Moreover, trousers, leggings, and other activewear also have these bands. Remember, athletes run, bend, jump, and stretch. If these activewear hadn’t elastic bands, they would have been very uncomfortable. The band supports their movement.
3- Bras and Underwear Stripes or Bands
The undergarment industry widely uses elastic clothing. All modern manufacturers use elastic bands for the strips of bras. Moreover, you’ll also notice the elastic strip below the cups. With these strips, the bras are more comfortable for the chest.
As the strips are elastic and flexible, body movement does not cause discomfort for the breast. Moreover, these bands are also used in underwear. When you wear underwear, the elastic band comes to your waist. It does not allow the underwear to sag when you walk or run. In short, their usage makes the undergarment more secure and comfortable.
4- Waistbands in Pants, Skirts, and Shorts
In the past, limited types of pants that needed belts were available. Without a belt, those pants used to sag, right? However, things have changed as manufacturers have started using elastic bands. These bands tighten the pants on your waist. Moreover, they make the pants fit no matter if you are skinny or have weight.
All skirts and other shorts have these bands. Interestingly, manufacturers add fabric over the rubberized elastic band. This fabric color is similar to pants or skirts, so the band does not remain visible. Removing such pants and skirts is very easy. You have to just pull the pants down without unbuckling the belt.
5- Socks and Stockings Tops
Socks without elastic clothing bands are useless, right? The sock won’t hold its position if an elastic band is absent. Once you wear the sock and walk, it will slide down, so you must keep it up repeatedly. It would be very uncomfortable.
However, these elastic bands hold the socks in one position. Stockings and socks are similar and require elastic bands. The stockings are generally bigger and go above the knees. It goes to the top of the thigh and holds it there with an elastic band. The socks with loose elastic bands won’t fit on your thigh and slide down.
6- Industrial Workwear & Medical Use
Industrial workwear uses elastic clothing bands, such as coveralls and safety suits. The safety suits have elastic cuffs. There are two benefits to using such cuffs. First, they make putting on and removing the safety suits easy. Second, these cuffs fit nicely on the employees and do not remain loose.
Moreover, doctors’ gloves have elastic bands, so they fit perfectly in their hands. The band perfectly comes on the wrist, so no dirt or germs can contaminate the doctor’s hand. Moreover, the face masks that nurses and doctors use also consist of elastic bands. This band goes around the neck and keeps the mask on the doctor’s face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is elastic used in clothing?
Elastic bands are used in clothing to add flexibility. Clothes that use these bands fit more easily and are more comfortable without going too loose.
Where do we usually see elastic in clothes?
The elastic bands are used in various clothing accessories. Those include pants, shorts, swimwear, activewear, bras, and underwear.
How long does elastic last in clothes?
Generally, the elastic band lasts several months if taken carefully. You should always wash the cloth with elastic bands carefully. However, these bands lose their elasticity over time, which is common.
Заключение
Elastic clothing bands have many diverse uses. They are very common everywhere, from swimwear to yoga resistance bands. I’ve discussed some popular uses of these elastic bands in this article. The primary reason behind their extensive usability is the benefits they offer. For example, they make clothing flexible, tight, easy to fit, and, above all, very comfortable. I recommend you wear clothes that use elastic bands instead of conventional belts.
