What Clothing Is Best for a Massage Appointment?

Booking a massage should feel exciting, not stressful—but many people still wonder what to wear. As a massage therapist, I hear this question daily. The good news is that choosing the right clothing is easy and can make your massage feel even better.

In this post, I’ll share practical advice to help you feel relaxed and prepared for your next session.

First, a little reassurance

Before we talk about clothes, let me clear something up. Massage is always about your comfort and consent. You are never required to undress more than you want to. A professional therapist will explain your options, leave the room while you get ready, and use proper draping at all times. Your clothing choices should help you feel relaxed, safe, and at ease.

What to wear to your massage appointment

Think simple, soft, and easy.

The best clothes to arrive in are:

• Loose-fitting pants or shorts

• A comfortable T-shirt or tank top

• Soft fabrics like cotton or bamboo

• Slip-on shoes or sandals

Why does this matter? Tight jeans, stiff belts, or complicated outfits can make getting ready stressful. When your body feels rushed or restricted, it’s harder to fully relax. Easy clothes help your nervous system settle down before the massage even begins.

Practical tip: 

Avoid clothing with lots of buttons, zippers, or layers. The easier it is to change, the calmer you’ll feel.

What to wear during the massage

This depends on the type of massage and your personal comfort level.

Option 1: Undressing to your comfort level

Many people choose to undress fully or leave on underwear. This allows the therapist to work directly on the skin using oil or lotion, which is common in Swedish, deep tissue, or relaxation massage.

If you keep underwear on:

• Choose simple, comfortable styles

• Avoid thick waistbands or shapewear

• Skip anything tight or restrictive

Remember, you will always be properly covered, and only the area being worked on is uncovered.

Option 2: Staying fully clothed

For certain types of massage—like Thai massage, shiatsu, or chair massage—you stay fully clothed.

If this is your session, wear:

• Stretchy pants or leggings

• A loose top

• Clothing you can move and stretch in

Practical tip:

If you’re unsure, ask when you book. Knowing ahead of time removes anxiety and helps you prepare the right outfit.

What not to wear (if you can help it)

Some clothing choices can get in the way of a great massage experience.

Try to avoid:

• Tight jeans or skinny pants

• Heavy perfumes or strong scents

• Jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, watches)

• Complicated undergarments

Strong scents can linger in the room and affect both you and the next client. Jewelry can interfere with massage strokes and may get in the way or be uncomfortable when you lie down.

Practical tip: 

Leave valuables at home. This helps you relax without worrying about your belongings.

What to wear after your massage

After a massage, your body is relaxed, your muscles are loose, and your circulation is flowing. Tight or stiff clothes can feel uncomfortable and undo some of that relaxed feeling.

The best post-massage clothes are:

• Soft pants or yoga pants

• A cozy sweater or hoodie

• Breathable fabrics

Your body may also feel warmer or cooler than usual after a massage, so layers are helpful.

Practical tip: 

Plan your outfit so you don’t have to rush afterward. Give yourself time to enjoy that calm, floaty feeling.

Special situations to consider

Every body is different, and life isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here are a few extra tips for common situations.

If you’re pregnant

Wear comfortable maternity clothing and supportive undergarments. Many prenatal massages are done side-lying, so soft, flexible clothing helps you move easily.

If you have body concerns

It’s completely normal to feel unsure about your body.

Please know this: massage therapists work with all body types, every day. Wear whatever helps you feel most comfortable—physically and emotionally.

If you’re coming from work or the gym

Bring a change of clothes if you can. Fresh, clean clothing helps you relax and feel confident during your session.

Why clothing really matters

Clothing affects how safe and relaxed you feel. When your body is comfortable, your muscles let go more easily. That means:

• Better results from the massage

• Deeper relaxation

• Less stress and tension

As a massage therapist, I can always tell when someone feels at ease. Their breathing slows, their muscles soften, and the session flows beautifully.

My final advice

Choose clothing that:

• Feels good on your body

• Is easy to change in and out of

• Supports relaxation, not tension

There is no “perfect” outfit—only what works best for you. If you ever feel unsure, just ask. We’re happy to guide you.

Massage is your time to rest, reset, and take care of yourself. When you dress with comfort in mind, you’re already taking the first step toward a better experience.

I hope this helps you feel confident and relaxed before your next appointment.