For a massage, the best attire centers on comfort, personal preference, and the type of massage you’re receiving. Most clients are encouraged to undress to their comfort level—but you may keep on undergarments or remain fully clothed if desired. The main rule: wear loose, breathable clothing that is easy to remove and put back on.
What to Wear to Your Massage Appointment
Comfortable, Loose Clothing Before and After
- Choose soft, loose, and non-restrictive clothes (like t-shirts, yoga pants, joggers, or lounge dresses) when you arrive. This makes it easy to change before and after the session and avoids discomfort from massage oils or lotions transferring onto dry-clean-only or special-care clothing.
- Leave jewelry (watches, necklaces, earrings, bangles) at home or remove them before the session to prevent interference during the massage.
During the Massage: What Do You Actually Wear?
1. Full-Body Oil or Lotion Massage (Swedish, Deep Tissue)
- Most people undress completely or to their underwear (bra and panties, or briefs/boxers for men). Your privacy and modesty are fully protected: the therapist uses a technique called “draping,” where your body is covered by a sheet or towel at all times, exposing only the area being worked on.
- You may choose to remain partially clothed—such as wearing underwear or shorts—if that feels best. Having a bra (especially underwired) can limit access to back and neck muscles but can be kept on if you are more comfortable that way.
- Complete nudity is never required. The therapist will adapt to your preferences and never judge your choice.
2. Fully Clothed Massage
- Thai, Shiatsu, and Table Stretch Massages: These are typically performed with the client fully dressed in loose, comfortable clothes. Opt for yoga pants, leggings, sweatpants, or athletic shorts and a t-shirt. Avoid skirts, dresses, very tight clothes, or restrictive fabrics as the therapist will move and stretch your limbs.
- Sports or Medical Massage: Light, stretch-friendly fabric (like athletic shorts and tank tops) helps the therapist access particular muscle groups.
3. Partial Massage (Chair, Foot, or Hand)
- Chair massage or spot treatments: Remain fully clothed, or remove only shoes and socks as needed.
- For foot or calf massages, wear pants or leggings you can easily roll up, or bring shorts.
Special Massage Types and Cultural Considerations
- Spa robes or towels: Some spas provide robes or towels for waiting and transition areas. You may change into these in a private space.
- Modesty traditions: If you have religious or personal modesty requirements, communicate with your therapist in advance—they can adjust the massage technique and clothing guidelines accordingly.
Hygiene, Practicality, and Additional Tips
- Shower or freshen up before your massage—you’ll feel better and the therapist will appreciate it.
- Avoid applying perfume or heavy lotions immediately beforehand.
- If you’re concerned about cool temperatures, ask for extra blankets or dress slightly warmer; therapists usually adjust the room to your comfort.
- Bring a hair tie if you have long hair, but check with the therapist if they prefer hair down for easier neck and scalp access.
Summary Table: Massage Types and Clothing
Final Thoughts
When going for a massage, there is no single right answer—your personal comfort comes first. Wear relaxed, easy-to-remove clothes and undress as much or as little as you wish for the session. Therapists are trained to preserve your privacy and will work with whatever you feel is best. If in doubt, discuss attire with your clinic or therapist before your appointment, and always bring a positive, open mind ready for relaxation and well-being.For a massage, the ideal thing to wear is whatever makes you feel comfortable, with a focus on loose, easily removable clothing and the level of undress you personally prefer. Most people undress to their comfort level—this could mean stripping down to underwear or, in many cases, removing all clothing under a sheet, as massage therapists use professional draping techniques to ensure privacy and only expose the area being worked on at any time.
What Should You Wear to the Appointment?
- Arrive in loose, soft clothing like a t-shirt, yoga pants, joggers, or athletic shorts to make changing easy before and after the massage.
- Avoid clothing that’s hard to remove (like tights, jumpsuits, or complicated fastenings).
- Choose garments that can handle massage oil or lotion, avoiding anything dry-clean-only or delicate.
- Remove jewelry, watches, and accessories for maximum relaxation and to prevent interfering with the therapist’s work.
During the Massage: What Do You Keep On?
- For most Western oil massages (like Swedish or deep tissue), clients undress to their comfort level—this means you can keep underwear on, or go nude. Modesty is fully protected by draping with a towel or sheet; the therapist only uncovers the body part being massaged at any moment.
- For Thai, Shiatsu, or some sports massages, you should remain fully clothed in stretchy gym wear, as these forms are done clothed and involve stretching.
- For chair or foot massages, no undressing is necessary; just remove shoes and roll up sleeves or pant legs as needed.
Additional Tips for Comfort and Etiquette
- Shower or freshen up beforehand for hygiene and your own comfort.
- Long hair? Bring a hair tie so the therapist can reach your neck and shoulders if needed.
- If you’re worried about feeling cold, ask for extra blankets or dress slightly warmer to the session.
- Communicate clearly about your comfort, health issues, injuries, or boundaries—therapists are trained to work with your needs.
Cultural and Personal Comforts
- If you have religious or personal modesty guidelines, it’s fine to discuss this in advance. Therapists will always respect your boundaries and can alter linens, draping technique, or massage form to suit your needs.
- Some spas provide robes or towels for undressing and transitioning to/from the massage room—ask if unsure before you arrive.
Table: Clothing Choices by Massage Type
| Massage Type | Clothing to Wear | Typical Unclothed Level | Therapist Technique |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swedish/Deep Tissue | Underwear or nude, under sheet | Sheet covers most of body | Oil, direct muscle access |
| Thai/Stretch | Loose clothing/gym wear | Fully clothed | No oil, stretching techniques |
| Chair/Reflexology | Work/casual wear | Shoes/socks removed | No undressing required |
| Sports | Shorts/tank top | Area exposed as needed | Oil or direct muscle access |
Bottom Line
Wear what makes you feel at ease—massage is about relaxation, and your therapist will always prioritize your privacy and dignity. Most choose to undress to their comfort level or wear gym clothes for clothed massages. Loose, easy clothing before and after your session will help you carry that massage-day comfort home too.