I remember my first latex purchase. It was a maid dress from Sharon Sloane. I attempted to try it on in the bathroom, without a dressing aid. I was 17 at the time, and trying to impress the guy I lost my virginity to. Anyway, it rips (obviously), and I guess I threw it in the bin – I don’t remember. After that, I invested quite a bit of money on latex brands for my modelling days, but they didn’t make me feel good. I felt like my body was the problem, but I didn’t know at the time it was just that those brands didn’t work for me.

My latex journey had an uneventful start, but I’ll do my best to make sure yours won’t be like mine.

Where to shop:
Libidex (London, UK): Start with them if you’re UK based. 50% off daily deals on their website. Wonderful staff at their Liberation store.
Atsuko Kudo (London, UK): If you’ve seen latex on a celebrity, chances are it’s by them. Still in the same spot in Holloway. 
House of Harlot (London, UK): I remember them way back when they were a few doors down from Atusko Kudo.
Breathless UK (London, UK): They have a store you can visit in King’s Cross.
Mm Latex (UK): Have yet to snag anything from them but I love the cuts.
Latexsowefr (Poland): Etsy seller. Just note that some of the bras have inbuilt padding that’s not mentioned in the descriptions.
Anoeses (Ukraine): Latex, leather and sheer garments. They also offer custom sizing.

How do I care for my Latex?
Wash and dry: I use washing up liquid and lukewarm water. I rinse it off and start again with clean water. I add a few drops of Vivishine to the water, swirl my garment around for a bit, then hang to drip dry (with a towel on the floor for the drips). You can use a specific wipe to help you dry. Some people choose to avoid the second step and just dry, then talc. You can put you garment in a bag and talc it in there to prevent mess.
Storage: In a dark place, away from damp and heat. I wrap mine in tissue (not the type you blow your nose with) and place in a zip lock/clothing bag when it’s dry. Place tissue between the layers to prevent the latex from sticking together, or you’ll risk ripping it. Make sure to cover areas like zips and buckles.
Keep colours separately: The dye is at risk of transferring onto another garment. Some enthusiasts layer at their own risk.

Rubber Care Checklist:
Washing up liquid/Latex Cleaner: I use Fairy Liquid since I was mostly black latex, but you can get ones from latex brands, too.
Shine (during wash): You can skip this skip if you just want to talc and shine/lubricate when you wear it, but I love this method. It shines my latex even more, plus it adds extra lubrication. Vivishine is my favourite, but BeGLOSS and Pjur are also great.
Latex Talcum Powder: The most popular method for Latex stores. Can be stored in this and clothes can be tried on/worn with just latex talc.
Dressing Aid: Again, you can use just latex talc if you want to, but I prefer this one to prevent tears.
Shine spray (when worn): Available as a spray or wipes. Lubricate makes surfaces/floors slippery, so take care.
Cloth for drying/shining: Looks like this. Use alongside your shine spray.

How to put it on/take it off:
Short answer – slowly and carefully. Use your fingers – not your nails. I prefer dressing lubricants over latex talc. You can also remove it in the shower, which can be really refreshing after a sweaty night. Be sure to mind how you get in and out.

What should I look out for?
Inclusivity: I always avoid brands that include only one body type
Breast implants: This might sound prejudice, but I have reason for this. Look out for Latex brands that only/mostly use models with breast implants for their stock photos. This is because the implants stretch the cups/latex out, removing imperfections in the craft. It also means some cuts are just not flattering on smaller chested women like myself. Obviously, if you have breast implants, you won’t have this issue, but catering to different bodies is important.
Custom sizing: It’s not always available, but it’s not always perfect, either. With latex, it’s a weird one, so I’d personally opt out of this option unless I can be measured instore and try the garment with the designer after purchase.
Better fit/flattering cuts: For items like a catsuit, you can always buy it in sections – a top, corset and leggings, rather than one piece for the best fit. If you have breasts, have a good look at the bust cuts. A Princess cut is my favourite.
Socks: Closed socks are common for rips! Opt for open and purchase socks separately or choose stir ups. Same for catsuits with closed gloves.
Zips: A back zip is tricky when you’re solo, especially when your hands are lubricated! You might opt for a front zip if you lack flexibility. You can also use a long bit of string/twine to put your zip up. If you have a double zip at the crotch, make sure you pull the zips away from the crotch (unless you want to treat someone to the dripping sweat dripping through it). Front zips are great for a bit of a breather after a long evening.
Latex thickness: Thin latex is super stretchy, but it’s more likely to tear. Take note of the thickness when ordering.
Lubricating on the go: Your thighs and layers will rub against each other. Use extra lubricant between your thighs if they rub, and in between each layer if you’re stacking (for example, underneath a corset if you’re also wearing a latex top).
Rips in public: My biggest fear! Make sure you have a plan b.
Sharp objects: Latex will scratch and tear easily.
Temperature: Latex adapts to the temperature of its wearer. It’s not breathable, and you will get very sweaty.
Allergies: Some people are allergic to latex can only wear it for extremely short periods at a time, or not at all. Chlorinated latex might be an option.
Chlorination: I’ve heard mixed responses to chlorination, but a few latex designers offer this option. It means you don’t have to lubricate the item to wear it, and it’s not as likely to tear in storage. It also has properties to extend the life of the garment, however, its also very difficult/impossible to repair chlorinated latex.

To end, I just want to say that latex is an investment that might also require a bit of trial and error. I gave all my latex pieces away when I stopped modelling because those brands didn’t cater to my body type, and they just didn’t make me feel good. If one brand doesn’t work for you, try another. And don’t skimp on the care – everything you use will aid the life and joy of your beautiful, slippery pieces.

Good luck on your shiny journey.

– GOOD GRIEF / DXXXRK