Clothing for waiters and bartenders in the evening
Short answer: Waiters and bartenders work late, at a fast pace and often in warm, crowded rooms. Clothing that sits smoothly under the uniform, absorbs sweat and lasts a whole evening without needing adjustment makes the shift easier.
Long evenings at a fast pace
An evening shift in a restaurant or bar can last eight hours or more, often until late at night. You move quickly between kitchen, tables and bar, carry trays, bend and reach. The room warms up as it fills, and behind the bar it can be even warmer. At the same time you need to look neat all evening. The clothing under the uniform therefore has to absorb sweat and stay in place without constant adjustment.
A smooth base under the shirt
Many restaurants have black or white uniforms where sweat marks and underwear lines show easily. A close fitting bodysuit gives a smooth surface under the shirt and stays tucked into trousers or skirt all evening, however much you bend. A bamboo bodysuit is soft and smooth and takes moisture away from the skin. Choose a colour that suits the uniform you wear on shift.
Under a skirt or dress
If the uniform is a skirt or dress, a pair of thin shorts underneath gives both comfort and freedom when you bend down to a low table or go up and down stairs. They also stop the thighs rubbing together on a long shift. Have a look at bamboo shorts for women, which are soft and light enough to wear under thin fabric.
No breaks in the middle of the rush
On a busy evening there is rarely time to step away. On days with a period, many therefore choose period underwear, so they can stay on the floor without worry. Choose an absorbency that suits your own flow and a long evening, and try them on a day off first. Consider keeping a spare pair in your bag for the longest shifts.
Feet on hard floors
Restaurant floors are hard, and many waiters walk several kilometres in an evening. Comfortable, non slip shoes and socks that absorb moisture make a big difference. Change socks halfway through the shift if you get the chance. Be careful with new shoes on a long evening, and break them in on shorter shifts first to avoid blisters.
Washing after an evening shift
Evening workwear often smells of food, frying oil and drinks. Wash underwear and bodysuits at 30 to 40 degrees on a gentle cycle, and wash period underwear after rinsing it in cold water. Avoid fabric softener, which coats the fibres and reduces absorbency. Let the clothes air dry. If your feet or back ache after long evenings, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why wear a bodysuit under the uniform
It stays tucked in all evening and gives a smooth surface without lines under the shirt.
Can period underwear be worn on a long evening shift
Yes, with an absorbency that suits your flow. Try them on a day off first and bring a spare pair.
How do you avoid blisters on a long shift
Wear shoes that are broken in and socks that absorb moisture. Change socks halfway through if possible.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
