Purpose of Clear Plastic Straps on Women's Dresses & Tops

Understanding the Purpose of Plastic Straps on Dresses

You may have noticed small clear plastic straps sewn into the sides or backs of many women's dresses and tops. Known as clear elastic straps, these stretchy pieces of plastic serve an important stylistic function. Keep reading to understand exactly what they do and why so many clothing items incorporate them.

Keeping the Garment in Place

The primary purpose of clear elastic straps on dresses and tops is to keep the garment properly aligned on the body. Thin, stretchy, and often transparent, they allow a range of motion while preventing shifting of fabric.

For example, clear straps on the side of a loose camisole stabilize the top so it stays positioned below the arms without riding up. Straps crossing over the upper back hold wrapped styles in place and prevent gaping or slipping.

Providing a Secure Fit

Incorporating plastic elastic straps into areas like the torso, shoulders, and back also contributes to a more snug, tailored fit. This helps clothes hold their structure and shape rather than appearing too loose or ill-fitting.

The tension of the straps creates light compression that pulls fabric taut. The resulting slimmer silhouette tends to appear more flattering on the body.

Supporting Key Areas

Another function of clear plastic straps is providing support and coverage for certain areas like the bustline and underarms.

Strategically crossed straps on the upper back and shoulder blades help lift the bust, prevent gaping buttons, and supply stability in the chest region of dresses and tops without the need for a traditional bra.

Underarm elastic straps on sleeveless styles supply compression and coverage here for comfort and confidence, smoothing the appearance of skin and tissue.

Types of Elastic Straps for Clothing

Several varieties of clear elastic straps may be applied to garments, each serving their own specific roles:

Spaghetti Straps

Very thin straps, resembling uncooked spaghetti noodles, are often sewn into casual sleeveless tops and dresses, supplying subtle lift and coverage for the shoulder and underarm areas.

Racerback Straps

A racerback strap stretches horizontally across the upper back region, generally as part of tank tops, athletic tops, and sleeveless dresses. This stabilizes garments and creates a sporty, streamlined look recalling the cut of a racerback sports bra.

Crisscross Back Straps

Two elastic strips crossed over the mid to lower back add gentle compression while neatly aligning the upper body and preventing wrapped dresses or blouses from loosening or gapping during wear.

Side and Torso Straps

Vertical clear straps spanning the ribcage and waist/hip section keeps dresses and tops properly positioned at the sides without bunching up and maintains slimness through the core.

Benefits of Elastic Straps on Clothes

Using clear plastic elastic straps offers many advantages both for clothing manufacturers as well as for those wearing garments incorporating them:

Streamlined Silhouette

The light compression and control supplied by elastic straps creates a smoother overall look, slimming the waistline and preventing lumps and bumps under clothing.

Structure Retention

Materials like silk and chiffon look beautiful but lack natural structure. The stabilizing effect of elastic straps built into such flowy fabrics allows them to better hold their draped shape.

Versatile Design Elements

Transparent elastic straps seamlessly integrate into all manner of tops and dresses without detracting from overall style. This versatility allows them to appear on casual, formal, retro, or modern garments alike.

Freedom of Movement

The stretchy, giving nature of elastic straps moves fluidly with the body, bending and flexing as needed to facilitate mobility, reach, and activity without restriction.

Comfort

When strategically positioned, elastic straps prevent strain on the neck, irritation under the arms, tightness through the chest and shoulders, and other discomforts that ill-fitting garments can cause.

Working With Elastic Straps on Your Clothes

Taking care around the clear plastic elastic straps when laundering, storing, and wearing items that feature them helps maximize function and lifespan:

Laundering

Hand wash when possible using cool water and gentle cycles. Machine washing, hang to dry to prevent heat damage to straps.

Storing

Avoid tight folds directly compressing strap areas. Hang items using wide shoulder shapers or fold loosely around straps themselves without pinching them.

Putting On

Gently stretch straps as needed when initially donning a garment to ease into position, being careful not to overextend or snap them.

Preventing Damage

Take off garments carefully without yanking necklines over head or contorting straps. Check for snapped threads whenever straps feel loose or function decreases.

With some care and consideration, the plastic elastic straps incorporated into your favorite dresses and tops should continue providing helpful structure, secure fit, stability and shaping for many wears.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.