Style
Choosing the right scrubs goes beyond just picking a color or style—it’s about finding workwear that feels good, moves with you and makes you feel confident. The right fit can make all the difference, helping you feel comfortable, capable and ready for whatever the day brings.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the different types of scrub tops and pants, how color-coding plays a role in healthcare settings, what to look for in fabric and tips for finding scrubs that match your needs and your lifestyle.
Different Types of Scrub Tops
Scrub tops come in a variety of styles and the differences often come down to neckline and fit. Here’s a closer look at the most common types of scrub tops and their key features.
V-Neck Tops
Classic and versatile, V-neck scrub tops offer a professional appearance that suits various body types. Their relaxed fit makes them a popular choice for everyday wear.
V-necks are a safe pick if you want a timeless, professional style. They’re easy to layer under jackets or undershirts, provide good breathability, and look polished across all departments.
Mandarin Collar Tops
If you’re going for a sleek, put-together look, mandarin collar tops are a stylish upgrade. The stand-up collar adds a touch of sophistication, perfect when you want something a little more elevated. This style works especially well for leadership roles or when you want a scrub top that feels more structured and uniform-like.
Relaxed Fit Tops
Relaxed fit scrub tops give you a little extra room to move, which comes in handy during long, busy shifts. They strike a nice balance between laid-back and professional, keeping comfort front and center.
These tops are especially popular with nurses and other healthcare professionals who want scrubs that don’t feel restrictive during constant movement. The looser cut provides airflow and flexibility, while still maintaining a polished look that works in any clinical setting.
Slim Fit Tops
Slim fit scrub tops are designed with a more tailored cut that creates a sleek, professional silhouette while still allowing you to move comfortably. Unlike boxier styles, slim fit scrubs use design elements that follow the body’s natural shape for a sharper, more polished appearance.
Key features to look for in slim fit tops include:
- Princess seams or contour stitching that define the waistline.
- Athletic-inspired cuts that sit closer to the body without feeling restrictive.
- Tapered sides and modern hems that enhance shape while staying professional.
- Stretch fabric blends that allow freedom of movement even with a closer fit.
These tops are a great choice for healthcare professionals who want scrubs that look more structured and elevated, while still being practical for long shifts.
Different Types of Scrub Pants
Scrub pants come in all kinds of fits, styles, and waistband options—so finding the right pair really comes down to what feels best for you. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most popular styles and what sets them apart.
Straight Leg Scrub Pants
Straight leg pants are the classic scrub silhouette. They fall straight from hip to ankle without tapering or flaring, which gives them a clean, traditional look that works in almost any healthcare setting. They’re roomy enough for comfort but tailored enough to stay professional — a dependable choice if you want scrubs pants that feel timeless and easy to wear.
Jogger Scrub Pants
Joggers are one of the most popular scrub styles today. They have tapered legs and stretchy cuffs that sit right above your ankle, so you don’t have to worry about hems dragging on the floor. The closer fit gives them a sporty, modern look, but thanks to stretch fabrics, they’re still comfortable enough for long shifts.
Cargo Scrub Pants
Cargo pants are all about storage and practicality. They come with multiple roomy pockets — usually on the thighs and hips — so you have space for everything from pens to a stethoscope. They’re a good choice if you like to keep your essentials within reach and don’t want to rely on a bag or extra gear.
Yoga Waistband Pants
Yoga waistband pants are built for comfort around the waist. Instead of buttons or drawstrings, they use a wide, stretchy knit waistband that sits smoothly against your body. This makes them a favorite for long shifts where you want less pressure at the waist and a fit that moves with you.
Types of Scrubs for Different Departments
In many healthcare settings, scrub colors are part of a color-coded system that helps identify different roles. Some professionals have the freedom to pick their favorite colors and styles, while others follow specific uniform guidelines set by their facility.
Common color associations include:
- Royal Blue: Often worn by nurses, this color represents trust and professionalism. Royal Blue Scrubs offer a polished look that's perfect for clinical settings.
- Ceil Blue: A calming, professional light blue shade, ceil blue scrubs are commonly associated with surgical teams and operating room staff.
- Teal: Teal scrubs are often chosen for their calming effect and are sometimes worn by surgical teams.
- Green: Traditionally used in operating rooms, green scrubs help reduce eye strain during procedures.
- Purple: Often used for reception or administrative roles, purple scrubs convey professionalism with a creative edge.
- Pink: Popular in pediatric or maternity departments, pink scrubs offer a soft and caring appearance.
- Grey: A neutral, professional color, grey scrubs are often worn by technicians or administrative staff.
- Black: Often chosen for administrative positions or high-end private practices, black scrubs create a sleek, elevated appearance.
Some healthcare facilities require staff to wear hospital-provided scrubs to meet hygiene and safety standards. These policies help maintain a clean, consistent, and professional environment. If you’re unsure about what’s allowed, it’s always a good idea to check in with your workplace about any dress code guidelines.
Material and Fabric Considerations
When it comes to scrubs, fabric matters just as much as fit. The right material can make a big difference in how comfortable and durable your scrubs feel throughout the day.
Cotton blends are soft and breathable—great if you have sensitive skin or just prefer a lighter feel. Polyester blends hold up well over time and resist wrinkles, so your scrubs still look crisp after multiple washes. If you need extra stretch for a busy shift, look for styles with added spandex to keep you moving comfortably. And if sustainability is important to you, there are eco-conscious fabrics that feel just as good while being a little kinder to the planet.
How to Choose the Right Scrubs for You
S Before you shop for new scrubs, it’s a good idea to check for any workplace requirements—like specific colors or dress code guidelines. Once you’ve got that covered, comfort and fit should be top of mind. Look for styles that let you move freely and won’t hold you back during long shifts.
Fabric care is another thing to think about. Scrubs that are easy to clean and tough enough to handle frequent washes can make your life a lot easier. Styles like yoga waistband pants or relaxed fit tops are favorites for a reason—they keep you comfortable from start to finish. If you’re looking for something soft and stretchy, the Purple Label collection by Healing Hands is a standout. It’s known for ultra-soft fabrics with just the right amount of stretch, giving you flexibility and durability in one. And while it’s important to stay within professional guidelines, don’t forget to bring a little bit of you into the mix. Scrubs can be practical and still show off your personal style.
Upgrade Your Scrubs with Healing Hands
Get the best of comfort, style, and durability with Healing Hands. Whether you love classic silhouettes or lean toward more modern looks, our women’s scrubs and men’s scrubs collections are made to support you in every healthcare setting. Explore our styles and feel the difference for yourself.