Menopause, Weight Gain & Wardrobe Woes: Dressing Your Changing Body & Finding Confidence Again

Navigating weight gain due to hormonal and adrenal disruptions during menopause is a common and challenging experience. When you hit that “certain age” many of us are familiar with the changes that menopause brings, and it can feel disheartening when our bodies no longer fit the clothes we once loved. Hormonal shifts often lead to rapid weight gain and redistribution, especially around the midsection as estrogen levels drop. This can mean that even if you lose weight, your body might not return to its previous shape. Here are some strategies to help you feel more comfortable and confident during this transitional period.

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Embracing Your Evolving Body

First and foremost, it’s important to accept that your body is amazing as it is today. It’s unlikely that your body will revert to exactly how it was before because of the hormonal redistribution of weight. This change, while challenging, can be managed with the right mindset and wardrobe adjustments.

I know that I struggle with this, since my menopause I’ve really noticed that it’s way harder to put on muscle (it feels like it takes forever to get stronger at the gym) and that even though my diet hasn’t changed weight just keeps creeping on. Yet I remind myself that I’m happy to still be here (I have friends who didn’t make it to menopause) and that I’m healthy and happy and have many things to be thankful for. My body allows me to do so many things and I try and embrace that!

Dressing Your New Shape: Practical Tips

Embrace stretch and flexibility – Invest in clothing with a bit of stretch. These garments can accommodate changes in your body size and shape, providing comfort without sacrificing style. Stylish doesn’t have to be at the expense of comfort!. Remember to look for items with interesting details, and that express your personality as well.

When you know how your personality influences every style choice it becomes so much easier to then know what kind of details and construction you’re after when you’re in the stores. This is one of the many benefits of getting a comprehensive education in colour and style through my 7 Steps to Style program.
Opt for adjustable pieces – Look for clothing items that can be belted or adjusted. Wrap dresses and tops with adjustable features can be versatile and flattering, allowing for slight size fluctuations.
Temporary wardrobe updates – While it’s wise to hold off on purchasing expensive investment pieces until your body has settled, you do need clothes that fit well right now. Choose clothes that make you feel good. This might mean investing in a few key pieces that fit well now, even if they are more affordable options until your body stabilizes. Also consider thrift stores, consignment stores and designer discount stores such as TK/TJ Maxx where you may find items that are good quality but at a cheaper price.
Reevaluate your body shape – As your body changes, your clothing needs will too. Use tools like my Body Shape Calculator to understand your current shape. Hormonal changes might shift you from an hourglass to a more rectangular shape, for example. Knowing your current shape will guide you in selecting the most flattering clothes.
Style to camouflage – learning some styling tips that will help camouflage your tummy such as a half-tuck but done to the side rather than at the front can make a loose garment that’s more forgiving still look stylish rather than just baggy.
Vertical Details – add long-line open layers such as longer cardigans or jackets to create elongating vertical lines through your torso.
Give yourself grace – Menopause is a significant life change, and it’s natural for your body to change with it. Be kind to yourself and patient as you adjust to these new realities. And if you’re really struggling with menopausal symptoms (of which there are many), it’s worth seeing your doctor or finding a menopause specialist doctor to help you as there may be a hormone replacement option that’s right for you and will reduce your symptoms.

Shopping Strategies to Reduce Stress

Shopping can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with body changes. Here are some strategies to make it easier:

Make a list – Identify what you need most and focus on those items. This prevents aimless shopping and helps you stay within budget.
Seek help – Don’t hesitate to ask for help, consider booking a styling session or joining a quality style program (our online community is full of so many good ideas and many have had a similar experience). Sometimes, a fresh set of eyes can provide valuable insights.
Invest in basics – Invest in a few high-quality basics that can be mixed and matched. A good pair of dress pants in your best neutral (your hair colour), a versatile dress, and a few tops in signature colours that make you shine, can go a long way.
Embrace tailoring – Tailoring can be a game-changer. A little alteration can make a world of difference in how clothes fit and flatter your body.

Transitioning through hormonal changes and menopause is a significant life event. It’s crucial to empower yourself with knowledge and strategies that make this transition smoother. Remember, your body is beautiful as it is today, and dressing it well can boost your confidence and happiness.