Life is full of changes, and our bodies are no exception. Whether it’s due to menopause, weight fluctuations, medication, or other life events, you may find that what once made you feel fabulous no longer works. If you’re struggling with how to rediscover your style after a body change and regain your style confidence, don’t worry—there’s a way forward.
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Step 1: Identify Your New Body Shape
The first step in rediscovering your style after a body change is understanding your current body shape. If your silhouette has changed, it’s essential to reassess and adapt. The three primary body silhouettes are:
- Column Silhouette – Straight up and down, with little waist definition.
- Waisted Column Silhouette – A defined waist but overall straighter proportions.
- Fit and Flare Silhouette – A noticeable waist with curves above and below.
Step 2: Rethink Clothing Silhouettes and Details
Once you know your new body shape, it’s time to look at clothing differently. Pay attention to these three key design elements:
- Horizontal Lines: These draw the eye and create width. Avoid horizontal details (such as belts or waistbands) at areas you don’t want to emphasize.
- Vertical Lines: These elongate and slim. Look for vertical seams, stripes, or open-front garments to create a lengthening effect.
- Detail Placement: Where do you want people to look? Keep details like embellishments or prints near your portrait area (face and shoulders) and avoid them where you want less focus.
Step 3: Try on Clothes with a Fresh Perspective
Before stepping into the fitting room, evaluate garments based on your new silhouette:
- Does it create vertical length?
- Does it highlight your best features?
- Does it feel comfortable and confidence-boosting?
For example, if you’ve lost your waist, structured waist-defining pieces might not be the best choice anymore. Instead, opt for softer drapes, vertical lines, and straighter silhouettes that harmonize with your shape.
Step 4: Fabric Matters More Than You Think
Fabrics play a crucial role in how clothing sits on your body. Choosing fabrics that move beautifully with your body ensures that your clothing feels as good as it looks. Consider:
- Silk and fluid fabrics skim the body rather than clinging.
- Stiff fabrics add structure but may not adapt well to a changing shape.
- Stretch fabrics provide comfort but should still offer good drape and fit.
Step 5: Build Confidence with One Great Outfit
Start with one outfit that makes you feel amazing. Then, analyze why it works:
- Does it follow your new silhouette guidelines?
- Does it emphasize your strengths?
- Does it feel effortlessly stylish?
Once you understand what works, you can replicate it with different pieces—without ending up with a wardrobe full of clones!
Step 6: Be Mindful of Pockets and Distressing
Small design elements can make or break an outfit. For example:
- Pockets in the wrong place can add bulk where you don’t want it.
- Distressing on jeans (especially at the crotch) draws attention to areas best left unhighlighted.
- Border prints or waistline embellishments can unintentionally widen your midsection.
Keep these in mind while shopping to avoid pieces that don’t serve your style goals.
These jeans have vertical seams (which I love), and the jacket also creates vertical details when left open, which helps to elongate.
Step 7: Give Yourself Grace and Time
Your body is not the problem—your clothes just need an update. Style is about creating harmony with your shape, not fighting against it. Learning how to rediscover your style after a body change is a process, but with the right tools and mindset, you’ll regain your confidence in no time.
Ready to Go Deeper?
If you want expert guidance tailored to your shape, style personality, and colours, my 7 Steps to Style program takes you through a comprehensive transformation. With professional assessments and personalised advice, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to dress your best—no matter how your body changes.
Start by taking my free body shape calculator quiz and begin your journey to rediscovering your style today!
