From “drip” and “fit” to “fresh” and “spiffy,” slang words for clothes are ever-evolving and creative. While some may argue that using slang words for clothes detracts from proper English, others see it as a way to express individuality and creativity.
Slang words for clothes can add a touch of personality and fun to everyday conversation, and they can also help to build a sense of community among those who share common interests and styles.
20 Slang Words for Clothes
1. Threads
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes or apparel.
- Example: I need to go shopping for some new threads.
- How To Use: This term is typically used to refer to clothes, especially fashionable or trendy ones.
2. Gear
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes or equipment, especially of a particular type or for a particular activity.
- Example: I need to get some new workout gear.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe specialized or specific types of clothing, such as athletic wear or military uniforms.
3. Duds
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes that are considered unfashionable or unstylish.
- Example: I can’t go out looking like this, I’m wearing my duds.
- How To Use: This term is used to describe clothes that are considered uncool or out of fashion.
4. Rags
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes that are torn or worn out.
- Example: I need to throw these old rags out and get some new clothes.
- How To Use: This term is used to describe clothes that are in poor condition, often due to being old or overused.
5. Garb
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes or attire.
- Example: I need to find the right garb for this job interview.
- How To Use: This term is used to describe clothes or attire, often in a formal or professional context.
6. Outfit
- Meaning: (noun) A set of clothes worn together.
- Example: I need to put together an outfit for this date tonight.
- How To Use: This term is used to describe a complete set of clothes worn together, often for a specific occasion or purpose.
7. Attire
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes, especially for a particular occasion or purpose.
- Example: The dress code for the event is semiformal attire.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe clothes that are appropriate for a specific occasion or setting.
8. Getup
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes, especially those worn for a particular purpose or event.
- Example: I need to put together a good getup for this interview.
- How To Use: This term is used to describe clothes that are worn for a particular purpose or event, often with the goal of looking impressive or professional.
9. Togs
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes, especially those worn for a particular activity or sport.
- Example: I need to get some new workout togs.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe clothes that are designed for a particular activity or sport, such as swimwear, yoga pants, or tennis shoes.
10. Raiment
- Meaning: (noun) Clothing, especially those of a particular type or worn for a particular occasion.
- Example: The guests wore their finest raiment to the royal ball.
- How To Use: This term is often used in a formal or poetic context to describe a particular type of clothing, especially when worn for a special occasion.
11. Vestments
- Meaning: (noun) Clothing, especially those worn by religious figures or for a particular religious ritual.
- Example: The priest donned his vestments for the Mass.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe the ceremonial clothing worn by religious figures or participants in a religious ritual.
12. Regalia
- Meaning: (noun) Clothing or accessories associated with one’s rank or position.
- Example: The king wore his royal regalia for the coronation ceremony.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe the elaborate and ornate clothing and accessories worn by royalty or other high-ranking officials.
13. Clobber
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes, especially those that are fancy or expensive.
- Example: He’s always wearing his clobber to show off his wealth.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe fancy, stylish, or expensive clothes that are worn to impress or show off.
14. Glad rags
- Meaning: (noun) Fancy or formal clothes, especially those worn for a special occasion.
- Example: She put on her glad rags for the wedding.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe fancy or formal clothes that are worn on special occasions, such as weddings or holiday parties.
15. Kit
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes or equipment, especially those used for a particular activity or sport.
- Example: I need to get some new camping kit before we head out.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe clothes, equipment, or accessories that are used for a specific activity or sport, such as hiking or soccer.
16. Swag
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes or gear that are given away as promotional items.
- Example: I got this promotional swag from the conference.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe clothes or gear that are given away as part of a promotional campaign or event.
17. Digs
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes, especially those that are stylish or fashionable.
- Example: He’s always wearing the latest digs.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe stylish or fashionable outfits, especially those that are current or trendy.
18. Legit gear
- Meaning: (noun) High-quality or authentic clothes or gear.
- Example: He only wears legit gear when he goes skateboarding.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe high-quality or legit clothes or gear, especially those that are designed for a specific activity or pursuit.
19. Schmutter
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes or apparel, especially those that are cheap or of low quality.
- Example: I hate going to that store, all they sell is cheap schmutter.
- How To Use: This term is often used to describe cheap or low-quality clothes or apparel.
20. Costumery
- Meaning: (noun) Clothes or costumes, especially those used for dramatic or theatrical purposes.
- Example: The costumery for the play was elaborate and ornate.
- How To Use: This term is used to describe clothes or costumes, especially those that are designed for dramatic or theatrical purposes.