Clothes that cling to the body

Short answer: Clothes cling either because of static electricity in dry air or because the skin is damp. The two causes look alike, but each needs its own solution, so the first step is to work out which one it is.

Static electricity

Dry air and synthetic fibres create a charge when fabric rubs against the skin or other clothing. That is why a dress can stick to your legs in winter. A smooth layer in between stops it, because it breaks the contact between the fabrics that build up the charge. Read more about antistatic clothing.

Damp skin

If you sweat, the fabric clings to the skin mechanically. This has nothing to do with static and usually happens in summer or after activity. A layer that moves moisture away from the skin helps, so the fabric on top can glide freely. See bamboo underwear for women.

The slip

Under dresses, a smooth layer solves both problems at once. It breaks the static charge and absorbs moisture from the skin, so the dress falls freely. Many people forget the slip, but it is one of the simplest fixes for a dress that clings. See bamboo slip.

Tights

Synthetic tights are the most common reason a dress clings. Nylon charges easily, and when the dress rubs against it, it sticks. Tights in a different material create less charge and make it easier for the dress to glide. See bamboo tights for women.

Humidity

In winter the indoor air is often very dry, which makes static worse. Raising the humidity helps, for example by drying laundry on a rack indoors or airing the room briefly several times a day. Read more about static electricity in clothes in winter.

Skip the softener

Fabric softener reduces static, but it leaves a film on the fabric that slows moisture transport. That means clothes cling more when you sweat. Wash without softener and deal with static using a smooth layer instead. See the washing guide.

The tumble dryer

The tumble dryer is one of the biggest sources of static in clothing. Fabric rubs against fabric in warm, dry air and builds up a charge. If you air dry your clothes instead, there is less charge when you put them on. It is also gentler on the fabric.

Where you notice it most

Dresses and skirts cling the most, because there is the least clothing to keep the fabric away from the skin. Under trousers the problem rarely occurs. Choose a dress in a fabric with drape, and wear a smooth layer underneath on dry days. See bamboo dresses.

Find the cause

If clothes cling mostly in winter and crackle when you take them off, it is static. If they cling mostly in summer or after activity, it is moisture. Once you know which it is, you can choose the right solution instead of trying everything at once.

A quick trick

If you are at the door and notice the dress clinging, run a damp hand lightly over your tights. The small amount of moisture takes away the worst of the charge. It is a temporary fix, but it works until you can wear a smooth layer underneath.