One of the things that you may not have realized that plays a factor in carrying is your jean/pant rise. The pant rise trends have definitely come and gone from low rise to high waisted. Let me tell you that back when low rise jeans were on-trend, I was all about them. The lower the better. Hello butt crack! However, the first time I attempted to carry in them it was a disaster. They were way too low and I really couldn’t sit without fidgeting. So those low-rise jeans are now reserved for those non-carry days and I solely stick with either mid-rise jeans or pants, which are the perfect rise for my everyday carry needs. However, the options for high-rise/high-waisted pant styles are becoming more available and the style is so very flattering that it’s a definite option when it comes to concealed carry.

While I think a high-waisted jean is a great option for concealing, it isn't just an easy replacement to your normal jeans. The higher-waist means that your gun is positioned higher on your body than normal which if you don't normally carry in high-waist jeans can almost feel like you are carrying for the first time again. Sitting, walking, bending over, and most importantly drawing your gun feels a little different and requires some adjustments and training.

Personally, I felt that walking and bending over didn't feel as awkward since the gun sits a bit higher on the waist where you naturally bend from, so I felt I was more mobile.  However, sitting was a bit uncomfortable. Mainly because the grip of the gun would hit my underboob (#realtalk) especially if I didn’t sit up straight.  That took a little bit to adjust to but once I got my posture aligned I was good to go.  It is something to note especially if you have a larger bust as high-rise jeans may not be ideal for you. When it comes to drawing the gun from a higher position that was a change.

The benefit I found from carrying in high-waisted jeans is that the grip doesn't seem to create as much of a bulge as when carrying normal waisted jeans. I've found that I can wear thinner layers without too much worry of printing.  One of the other benefits with high-waisted pants is that you can also wear your tops that might be too short for normal mid-rise jeans. Since your self-defense tool sits higher on the waist, you have a little bit more real estate for your shirt.

While drawing from concealment should be part of your training plan, so should drawing from concealment in different style clothes. It's easy to wear the same jeans and top to practice in but let's be real, you probably aren't wearing that same top and bottom every single day.  If you are experimenting with new styles, or wearing something you don't normally wear, and are short on training time, take fifteen minutes before heading out to practice your draw and get comfortable with your concealment position. You'll be able to see what issues you might have and be able to make some adjustments so you can be comfortable regarding your draw position should you have to use your weapon.

Each person and their bodies are different. My pant rise style leans towards mid and high rise, but you may find that low rise works for you.  No matter what rise works for your lifestyle, always experiment and play dress up in your own closet.

READ MORE: The Women’s Ultimate Guide to Dressing for Concealed Carry

— CONCEALED CARRY DETAILS —

{LOOK ONE} Self-Defense Tool: Glock 43 | Holster: Blacksmith Tactical | Belt: Rag and Bone
{LOOK TWO} Self-Defense Tool: Glock 43 | Knife: CRKT | Belt: Rag and Bone | Holster: Black Smith Tactical
{LOOK THREE} Self-Defense Tool: Glock 43 | Holster: StealthGearUSA | Belt: Rag and Bone

{check out the discount codes page for holster discounts}

— OUTFIT DETAILS —

{LOOK ONE} Sweater: Topshop {similar} | Jeans: Topshop | Bag: Proenza Schouler 'PS1' Satchel | Shoes: Vince Camuto 'Francia' Bootie {similar} | Bite Beauty
{LOOK TWO} Shirt: Chelsea28 via Nordstrom | Jeans: Blank NYC | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik {similar save}
{LOOK THREE} Top: Chelsea28 via Nordstrom | Jeans: Topshop Jeans | Bag: Chanel | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik {similar save} | Lipstick: Bite Beauty