Glossy clothing does something to a room. A wetlook catsuit, a faux leather dress or a latex bodysuit draws all the attention to your body and feels different too: tight, smooth and a little warm. But the three materials are not the same. Here are the differences, and how to keep them looking their best.
Wetlook: the easy start
Wetlook is a stretch fabric (usually polyester with elastane) with a glossy coating. It looks like wet latex but stretches like a pair of leggings. It's affordable, breathes reasonably well and can simply go in the washing machine on a cold cycle. Ideal if you want to wear gloss for the first time.
Sizing: wetlook stretches a lot. If you're between two sizes, choose the smaller one. It will stay snug and look glossier.
From our shop
- Spandex jumpsuit – glossy and fitted, stretches along with you
- Leopard print jumpsuit – for when you want to stand out
Faux leather (PU): sturdy and bold
PU leather is faux leather: a sturdy fabric with a leather-look coating. It has little stretch, holds its shape well and often features zips, laces or buckles. Think corsets, mini skirts and dresses. It looks expensive without being so, and it's easy to look after.
Care: do not put it in the washing machine. Wipe it with a damp cloth and mild soap, let it dry on a hanger and keep it out of the sun. Don't fold it, as folds will remain visible.
From our shop
- Leather corset dress – shape and shine in one
- PU leather dress with umbrella skirt – bold and playful
- PU leather mini dress – short, fitted and glossy
Latex: the real deal
Latex is natural rubber. It sits like a second skin, glows deeper than any fabric and feels genuinely different. It does ask a bit more of you.
- Putting it on: use talcum powder or a silicone-based donning lubricant on the inside. Without it, the latex won't slide on and tears more easily. Pull it on slowly and in sections, never by the edge.
- Shine: rub the outside with latex polish or a thin layer of silicone oil. This gives the deep mirror-like gloss you see in the photos.
- Washing: lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, rinse, pat dry with a towel and let it dry on a hanger. Then dust the inside with a little talc to prevent sticking.
- Storing: dark, cool and loosely folded. Latex discolours in sunlight and is damaged by oil, grease and copper (watch out for jewellery and zips).
Which one should you choose?
Start with wetlook. It's forgiving, affordable and looks almost the same as latex in photos. If you love the gloss, go for faux leather for more structure, or real latex for the complete experience.
How to complete the look
Glossy clothing needs contrast. Combine a wetlook catsuit with matte accessories: a harness, stockings, a collar. Heels complete the look, and a blindfold for your partner makes it even more exciting.
Also read
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between wetlook and latex?
Wetlook is a stretch fabric with a glossy coating: it stretches with you, is affordable and can go in the washing machine. Latex is natural rubber: it sits like a second skin and glows deeper, but needs talc to put on and hand washing.
Can wetlook go in the washing machine?
Yes, on a cold cycle and without fabric softener. Not in the dryer and not ironed. Let it dry on a hanger.
How do I put on a latex catsuit?
Use talcum powder or a silicone-based donning lubricant on the inside. Pull it up slowly and in sections, and never pull by the edge. Keep nails short and remove jewellery.
Which size wetlook should I choose?
Wetlook stretches a lot. If you're between two sizes, choose the smaller one: it will stay snug and look glossier.
Shop wetlook, latex and leather
Order before 4 pm and it's delivered tomorrow. Discreetly packaged, free shipping from €50.
