The 5 Ways to Look Your Best in Scrubs

By Jordie Papa

Image courtesy of Uniform Destination

I don’t know if you’ve noticed lately that scrubs are popping up all over?  What used to be a utilitarian outfit only seen at doctor’s offices, nursing homes and hospitals are routinely appearing after hours at all kinds of functions and events.  This is a good thing, since scrubs can be some of the most comfortable togs ever created.  With a myriad of styles, colors and patterns to choose from, it only makes sense that if you’re into scrubs, you’ll want to choose the ones that look and wear well whether on the job or off.  That’s why I am dedicating today’s blog to helping you choose the best scrubs for you.

Does 1-Size-Fit-All?

Just as there is no such thing as a 1-size-fits-all body, the same can be said for scrubs.  Some designers choose lines that flatter plus sizes, while others are tailored for thinner frames.  Before you plop down your credit card, you need to try on designer scrubs to see how they look and feel on you. Gathered and smock tops tend to favor slender builds.  Do you look best in open collar or v-neck tops?  V-necks creates the illusion of height by seeming to lengthen your neck. Pointed collars tend to draw the eye toward your face and away from your frame.

If you have a bulge in your belly, try purchasing pants with low-rise bottoms designed to sit on your hips.  Unlike traditional pants, low-rise trousers can accommodate your midriff without accentuating your stomach.  Pleated pants can also have the opposite effect, by making your midsection seem more prominent.Of course, the only way to find out what looks best on you is to try on a number of different styles. This is also one reason to avoid purchasing scrubs online.  What looks good on a model, might not necessarily look good on you.

Plain or Patterned?

Image courtesy of Uniform Destination

Just as different body shapes look better in certain styles of scrubs, the same can be said for colors and patterns.  Choosing tops and bottoms with the same color, tends to make the wearer look thinner than contrasting colors. Darker colors such as black, charcoal, navy blue, burgundy and dark green are slimming, while brighter colors tend to make the wearer appear heavier.  Shirts with open collars and dark colors are great if you’re big on top and narrow at the hips.

Even your skin tone can have a bearing on how good you look in scrubs. People with darker complexions look better in lighter colors and vice versa.  The secret to looking your best in scrubs is to choose a complimentary color that accentuates your complexion.  The easiest way to do this is to hold a set of scrubs next to your face while glancing at yourself in the mirror. If the material gives your face a warm glow, you’ve hit the mark.  On the other hand, if they make your face appear pale or pinched, it’s time to choose another set of scrubs.

Patterned scrubs are all the rage these days.  Choosing the right patterns can also seem to add or remove the pounds or make you seem taller or shorter. If you have a bigger build, you want to avoid large patterns and horizontal lines.    Shirts and pants with vertical lines make the wearer appear thinner and taller at the same time.

How Well Do Your Scrubs Fit?

Just as custom-tailored suits are more flattering than those purchased off the rack, it’s all too easy to choose the wrong size of scrubs for your frame.  Men typically tend to choose scrubs that are either too tapered or too full.  Women tend to choose outfits that are too tight.  To get the right fit, you need to know your exact measurements.  This is hard to do on the fly, since your body’s dimensions can change very quickly.  (That’s also one of the reasons we offer fitting assistance at all four of our Uniform Destination stores.) If you don’t have the assistance of a professional, the most important thing to observe when you try on a pair of scrubs is how well you can move in them and how they look in the mirror.  If the top seems to be wrinkled, this is a sure sign that you need to go one size up.  If it looks like you’re wearing a tent, try one size down.

Do Your Scrubs Look the Same As Everyone Else’s?

Image courtesy Uniform Destination

Even if you buy your scrubs off the rack, there’s no reason you can’t add a few touches that make a personal statement. Whether you opt to have your name embroidered on your top or add a pin with a contrasting color that’s sure to make your colors pop, accessorize to emphasize. Watches, earrings, necklaces and/or hair pins can also be used to make your outfit seem so ordinary, especially if they sport a complimentary color.  

Can You Mix or Match?

Wearing such things as shoes that match the color of your top, or pants that contrasts with your top can make you stand out from the crowd. It’s also possible to mix and match prints.  You can wear a printed top with solid bottoms and vice versa.  You can also mix prints with prints, as long as you stay in the same genre.  For instance, you can mix a floral top with a different floral print on the pants. Just make sure if your pants have large prints, your shirt has smaller prints.  For men, you can mix solids, alternating from dark on top and light on the bottom on one day, to exactly the opposite the next.  This tactic is also a great way to make it appear as if you have an almost endless collection of scrubs, since no two outfits look alike.

The most important thing to remember if you want to look best in scrubs is attitude trumps aptitude.  By presenting yourself to the world with a smart looking outfit and a smile on your face, you’ll be seen as someone who’s capable and confident, which is always appreciated by both patients and acquaintances alike.

Jordie Papa is owner of Uniform Destination with four locations in North Florida.