Why Scrubs for Curvy Women Are a Game-Changer

From "unattractive fabric bags" to "Oooh-la-la" curvy!

Scrubs for curvy women are changing the days of ill-fitting scrubs that restricted movement being the only option available in scrub attire. A staple in healthcare worker clothing, scrubs have come a tremendously long way in the past decade revamping old styles, comfort, colors, and fitting.

These new-age scrubs, particularly sets made for women with fuller figures, also allow comfort during those long 8-hour or 12-hour shifts. To add to the excitement, the multitude of modern-day colors, designs, and styles allow scrub wearers to express their personalities while bringing some flare to the workplace.

Scrubs for curvy women are leading the charge in inclusive workplace attire sizing by transforming outdated rough and stiff scrubs into durable, flexible pieces for every woman's body while also boasting innovative designs and unique fabric blends.

Customized fits

Curvy scrubs for women are designed to provide a flattering fit for plus-sized women as well as women who need a little extra room in their workwear in areas such as the hips, thighs, and bust. Some of the fit-comfortably features in curvy scrubs include:

• Slits in the waist of scrub tops that allow the tops to fit properly over the hips instead of tightly which can cause scrub tops to rise up (nothing more uncomfortable or embarrassing than constantly pulling your scrub top down all shift long!)

• Additional space built-in around the bust with a flattering curved neckline (instead of a sharp V-neck) and curved seams throughout to create that sought-after tailored look

• Adjustable waistbands that prevent waistband gapping and bulkiness that many curvy women experience when dealing with scrub bottoms

• Stretchy and soft fabrics that allow you to "bend and snap"!

Functional Movement

If you work in the healthcare industry then you know how awful a shift can go when your uniform has a mind of its own. Seams and corners are poking the body in all kinds of places while the entire outfit shifts any which way it wants to. Pants are constantly falling, giving "plumber's crack"- Eek!- and shirts are riding up giving handsy patients something to grab.

It's like your scrubs are fighting against you which can be distracting to providing your best work and simply getting through the day.

Curvy scrubs are getting rid of all that combativeness by utilizing well-blended flexible fabrics that hug curves, allowing free movement of material that works with you, not against you.

CURVY Designation

Curvy women in healthcare everywhere are demanding more scrub sizes that cater to their diverse body shapes and sizes. In the past, scrubs have been almost "one-size-fits-all", however, designing for various body shapes and sizes has become easier as of late as more scrub designers embrace body positivity and inclusive sizing.

Scrubs for curvy women offer expanded sizing options preventing fuller-figured women from finding themselves in between sizes, settling for pieces that are either too small (usually around the bust) or too big (usually around the waist).

When searching for form-fitting scrubs, look for sizes such as LARGE CURVY or XLARGE CURVY to match your typical clothing size along with your curves.

Pockets!

Bring on the pockets! Pockets are just cool- but then add the cargo pockets to scrub pants and even more pockets to scrub tops...DREAM! So don't worry, plus-size scrubs are by no means shying away from cargo scrubs, arguable the trendiest fashion invention in scrub couture.

If anything, curvy scrubs are adding more pockets for all your pens, notepads, gadgets, and gizmos as well as space for a stethoscope holder which can actually combat neck pain from poor posture!

Joggers vs Traditional Pants

Now, while we are on the subject of pants and pockets, another preference to consider for your enjoyment is choosing between jogger scrub bottoms or standard scrub bottoms that have non-elastic hems on the ends of the pant legs.

Some professionals like their pant legs more free-flowing while others find comfort in the snug elastic fit of jogger hems. Keep in mind, though, that when opting for scrub joggers, the inseam will run slightly shorter so these may be the perfect fit for women who wear petite sizes.

The real question, though, is:

WHY CHOOSE?! Get them both!

Unique fabric blends

Now, you've probably been wondering the whole time while reading this how some of these new-age scrubs can make claims of being so durable and super stretchy.

Well, that is because they are created with a revolutionary material by the name of graphene polyester. You may already know polyester as the popular synthetic fabric used in many clothing pieces for its versatility and durability. Polyester wicks away moisture, is easy to care for, and resists shrinkage and overstretching.

But what the heck is graphene?!

Glad you asked! Graphene is a "wonder material" founded in 2004 that consists of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged into a 2D honeycomb lattice (Yum, honey!). It has become all the rage for its notable strength, flexibility, and conductivity.

Graphene polyester utilizes the strengths of both exceptional materials.

Why is graphene so wonderful?

As we mentioned above, graphene is praised as a "wonder material". That is because it has some pretty awesome features such as:

• Superior electrical and thermal conductivity, the latter helping in regulating body temperature.

• Being lightweight in addition to being flexible which is ideal for racing to emergencies, kneeling to help a patient put on their shoes, sitting to console an upset patient, and moving from room to room or floor to floor.

• Being the strongest known material (it is 200 times stronger than steel by weight!).

Polyester and Graphene: A winning combination

With graphene being the strongest known material used in manufacturing scrubs, its strength enhances the already durable properties of polyester. This allows scrubs made with graphene polyester to resist wear and tear for longer periods of time (and we're also guessing bodily fluids and patients who like to pull).

Another cool feature of graphene is that it naturally inhibits the growth of microorganisms, aiding in long-lasting freshness and reducing the risk of infections.

Eco-friendly

In addition to all the tremendous aforementioned features of graphene and polyester; graphene polyester is also great for the environment!

In production, graphene has a lower environmental impact and contributes to sustainable textile practices when combined with polyester, particularly recycled polyester.

How to find the best curvy fit

When shopping for the perfect pair of curvy and plus-size scrubs, particularly online, consider these pointers:

• Get your measurements: Accurate measurements are key in determining which sizes to consider, and whether you want a closer fit or a looser fit.

• Consider the fabric: Breathability and flexibility of fabric should be your non-negotiables in choosing uniforms that are going to be comfortable throughout your workday.

• Details matter: To get that flattering look and glove-like fit, look for details in scrub designs such as darts, princess seams, and curved necklines which create a more appealing silhouette.

• Read reviews: Reading is not always fun, but before investing your hard-earned dollars in some new fits, consider what other women have to say about the above qualities and the hype of the scrub brand.

Colors

Any curvy woman in healthcare knows that scrub pants and tops can come in a variety of colors. Feeling vibrant? Bright colors such as red and teal can make a statement as well as shades such as soft lavender, pastel yellow, or dusty rose for color on the softer side.

However, don't discount keeping the basics in your closet- blues, black, greys- as these are staples that act as bases to complement those colors as well as white.

Grey is an excellent choice to pair with pops of color, white, black, and brown; and it offers a timeless professional and flattering look. Grey is a common color palette used in most workplaces.

If wearing neutral colors such as black and grey is a requirement of your employer, then play around with pops of color in your accessories such as your shoes and socks!

Promoting good posture

Remember earlier when we mentioned that a stethoscope holder can help combat neck pain? Well here's why:

• Even though they seem lightweight, stethoscopes can actually add weight to the neck causing us to develop a "leaning" posture over time.

• Couple this with the increased use of computers while completing duties such as patient documenting or looking up doctors' orders, "techneck" can become a real problem.

• Continued pressure on any joint can lead to arthritis and the cervical spine faces no exception.

• Lastly, if the idea of stiffness in your neck doesn't deter you, then remember that our stethoscopes are dirty! You probably don't want that many germs around your neck and so close to your face.

Stethoscope holders are pretty convenient as they don't create that awkward imbalance in your scrub top or scrub jacket that comes from carrying it in your pocket. They clip on easily to your pants or belt, hold your stethoscope securely, and allow quick easy access for when you need to listen to the heart and lungs.

Looking good and feeling better!

That saying "Look good, feel good" wasn't thought of for no reason. It holds merit especially when it comes to our work clothing. Curvy women who feel good in their scrubs have more confidence and increased job satisfaction. They are able to embrace their bodies and beauty.

Body positivity is a real thing that is increasing in recognition, and every woman deserves to feel good both mentally and physically in the work that she is doing, especially in taxing jobs such as healthcare. Clothing contributes to these feel-good feelings.

When it comes to scrub attire, there's nothing better than finding a pair or two (or three) that not only fits well all day (high waist, adjustable drawstring, long-enough inseam, stay-put top), but also provides functionality such as secure zipper pockets for your notepad and pulse oximeter as well as sleekness in movement that gets you through your tasks.

Scrubs for curvy women have certainly made their mark by shaking up the healthcare uniform industry with a focus on body inclusivity, high-quality fabrics, specific cuts for tailored fittings, and sustainable textiles so that every curvy healthcare professional feels good while doing good.