How to wear a harness: chest, shoulder and full-body styles

Nothing frames a chest like a harness. It turns a plain tee, a jockstrap or bare skin into a look, and it’s at home on a Pride float, at a fetish night, at a circuit party or on a night in.

Styles

• Chest harness: straps around your chest and over your shoulders, meeting at a ring in the middle. The classic.
• Shoulder harness: straps across your shoulders and upper chest for a sleeker look.
• Full-body and halter harnesses: straps from your neck or chest down to your waist, for maximum drama.
• Elastic harnesses: stretchy, comfortable and easy to move and dance in.
• Harness sets: a harness with a matching jockstrap, briefs or socks, so the whole outfit is done.

Getting the fit right

• Snug, not tight: the straps should stay where you put them when you move, with room to slide two fingers under.
• The centre ring sits on your breastbone, and the straps lie flat without twisting.
• Adjust the buckles or clips before you head out; straps can shift once you start dancing.

How to put one on

Loosen every strap first. Step in or pull it over your head, depending on the style, settle the centre ring on your chest, then tighten evenly on each side so it sits straight. Check the back in a mirror.

What to wear it with

• Bare chest and a jockstrap for a party or a fetish night.
• A mesh or crop top underneath to make it street-friendly.
• An open shirt over the top for a hint of what’s underneath.
• Tight shorts or jeans for Pride.

Care

Hand wash elastic harnesses in cool water with mild soap and hang them to dry. Wipe faux leather with a damp cloth, and store harnesses flat or hanging so the straps don’t kink.

Tip: First harness? An elastic one is the easiest to size and the most comfortable to wear all night.