Sticky, Sweaty–and Stylish?
Latex’s transition from a fetish to a fashion
Written by Morgan Johnson, Contributing Writer
Is it the compressed feeling? The eye-catching reflection? The vegan and sustainable origins? It’s more commonly found in gloves and balloons, but recently, you’ll find latex on the red carpet, too.
Latex is made from approximately 40% natural rubber and 55% water. Natural rubber comes from under the bark of a rubber tree, native to South America. The harvesting method for gathering latex has been around for generations in South American culture. The material’s origins are rooted in organic gathering, but today, most of the world’s latex clothing is synthetic. Since the demand for latex is on the rise for avant-garde fashion, natural production of latex is unable to keep up (ACE Laboratories, 2022).
Latex fashion is now more visible than ever. From neutral, elegant looks to pops of color, celebrities are styling latex in various ways. Fashion icon Kim Kardashian sports a caramel latex blazer and leggings set with slicked-back hair to match the seamless look. She pairs her fit with a nude heel. Rapper Nicki Minaj brings back a classic—the catsuit—but in a signature Barbie doll pink. Minaj proudly shows off her curves with latex, first sporting the fabric in 2010 (Billboard Style, 2017). American singer Lady Gaga went full-throttle, wearing a latex catsuit in a photo shoot for her perfume “Fame.”
Latex’s durable qualities date back to the 19th century when it was strictly used for functional purposes in waterproof coats and dress protectors. By the 20th century, latex formed into its own fetish, which was shown through catsuits and corsets, but it still holds a practical use in fashion today (George, 2020). The latex trench coat has been around for a while and provides a layer of comfort and warmth. But you don’t have to be a Kardashian to style latex. More affordable brands like Fashion Nova have made latex part of their streamlined collections for every season. Fashion Nova sells a form-fitting latex midi skirt for $29.99 and teal latex joggers for $44.99 (Igneri & Fox, 2019). Some retailers and designers are even creating baggy latex pieces, like Arthur Avellano’s latex puffer jacket, that allow for a more casual and effortless look.
The reintroduction of latex into mainstream fashion is captivating more fashion personalities than ever before. What was once used as an exclusive, underground secret is now used as material to provoke sensual feelings. Latex is seen as classy and chic, sexy and seductive, and it continues to attract more fashion icons. Because of this, latex will likely stick around (literally) in mainstream fashion for years to come.
Sources:
ACE Laboratories. (2022). What is Latex Made Of? Rubber & Latex Testing - ACE. Ace Laboratories.
Billboard Style. (2017). 8 Times Nicki Minaj Wore Latex Outfits. Billboard.
Fibre2Fashion. (2013). Latex Clothing - Latex Clothes - Latex Garments. Fibre2Fashion.
George, C. (2020). From fetish to fashion: The rise of latex. BBC.
Igneri, J., & Fox, C. (2019). 16 Latex Outfit Ideas That Are Actually Wearable. NYLON.