Spandex: The Untold Story

Have you ever had the "Those pants fit this morning!" experience? 

Lycra (a.k.a. spandex) is the culprit.

Spandex warms up to your body heat and relaxes throughout the day, so your normal pant size might be too big. We suggest folks try a size down when buying pants with more than 3% spandex - a snug fit in the store will stay on your hips after the pants relax.

For history buffs out there, spandex (an anagram* of “expands”) was invented by Dupont chemists in 1959 and languished in the athletic world before catapulting to popularity during the Disco era. (Leg warmers and jumpsuits anyone?) 

Like me, spandex grew up a little over the last three decades and is now hailed as the miracle fiber that stretches, breaths, and feels like a second skin. NPR notes over 80% of women's clothing has some spandex, and most men's and women's pants have the miracle fiber. 

Despite spandex wriggling into America’s wardrobe, there’s not much information on how to take care of the fiber. Dryers break down spandex and give you stretched-out messes after a couple tumbles. Cold air or water is what really shrinks spandex. Follow the guidelines below to make the most of this miracle fiber!

Buying Clothes with Lycra

• Buy pants snug. Try a size down to get the best fit.
• Buying pull-on pants? Definitely go a size down! No belt loops means you can't salvage a pair that's too big. 

Caring for Lycra

• Wash cold
• Air dry or set dryer to "air fluff"
• Avoid fabric softener - some websites say it breaks down Lycra

Next time you’re at By Hand, check the label of the socks or jacket that catches your eye. The materials might surprise you.

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* according to Wikipedia. Internalize tidbit at your own risk. (Sorry, Liberal Arts School!)