There comes a time in every woman’s life when the hormones level decide to dip without warning, leaving her to grapple with hot flushes (flashes for my US friends) and the occasional bout of mood swings that make her wardrobe decisions feel hopeless when deciding on the best clothes for menopause belly.
No, you’re not about to read a fashionably sprinkled physics lesson, but rather a thoughtful guide that blends the art of staying comfortable with the science of looking effortlessly stylish during that magical yet challenging phase of life called menopause.
In this blog post, we will look at dress styles, items to divert attention from belly bulge, different body shapes and everything in between.
We deserve to feel comfortable and keep our self-esteem sky-high.
I know that in my experience it felt like all of a sudden nothing in my wardrobe fit me anymore and I could not work out why. As soon as I was diagnosed perimenopausal, all became clear!
3 Takeaways from this blog post
Be a Comfort Connoisseur: Wave goodbye to those pain-in-the-tummy tight jeans and say hello to elastic waistbands! Remember, the best outfit is one that lets you feel comfy and confident. Go on — give yourself a hug in fabric form with clothes that fit just right.
Fashion is Your Playful Pal: Keep those trends on their toes! Your style should dance around your needs, not the other way around. Throw on that A-line dress and show off your twirl-worthy fabulousness. This is your fashion playground — let fun rule!
Celebrate Your Evolution: Menopause? More like a Meno-pause to appreciate the amazing person you are! Your body’s going through changes, and that’s totally okay. Embrace and love the skin you’re in at every stage. Fashion is just the confetti on the celebration of you.
A Heart-to-Heart on the Menopausal Transition
Before we address the scary world of fashion, it’s essential to pause and acknowledge what’s happening beneath the surface.
Menopause is a significant life pivot, marked by the end of our menstrual cycles, and it brings along a cohort of delightful symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, and mood changes. It’s a time of transformation, not just physically, but emotionally and even spiritually.
There are so many symptoms that we have to endure during this time and it is unfair to think that we should have it all figured out.
The key during menopause is to be kind to yourself. This isn’t just a message of self-care; it’s a practical piece of advice that echoes through everything you do, including your wardrobe choices.
Embracing Changes with Grace and Humour
It’s no cakewalk, but it can be a catwalk. See what I did there?
Yes, the infamous hot flashes might turn the thermostat up, but there’s a lot of giggles to be found in knowing you can go from ‘I need an ice pack’ to ‘Where’s the blanket?’ in mere seconds.
Finding the right style during menopause is like doing stand-up comedy; it’s about timing and rolling with the punches, or in this case, the unexpected surges of heat.
When I was early on in my perimenopause I had no idea what was happening, I was early 40s and completely unaware that my hormones were decreasing.
I felt awful! Truly awful.
No sleep, anxiety was at it’s worst and all of a sudden I could not remember a thing. Then throw in this sudden belly bloat and weight gain, I was miserable.
So when I talk about laughing things off, this is easy for me to say, now my symptoms are under control and I know what on earth is wrong with me!
I am no doctor, this blog is about my experience with the menopause. If you feel any symptoms at all, please do and speak to your doctor and make sure you go in armed with info, you can try using this tracker.
Understand Your Natural Body Shape
Understanding your body shape can be the key to unlocking your wardrobe’s full potential!
By accepting and appreciating the unique curves and contours of your body, you can start to experiment with different styles and silhouettes that will not only flatter your figure but also make you feel that body positivity.
Is your body apple shape? Or are hourglass figures more accurate? How we wear clothes has a big impact on how these shapes look.
After all, there’s nothing more fun than playing dress-up and discovering new ways to express yourself through fashion – even during the ups and downs of menopause.
There are skirts for those of us with no hips, just like there are skirts out there for our big hip girlies. Once you know and love the shape you are naturally, you can dress much better.
It is OK for the skinny jeans to be put in the bottom drawer for a little while…
Best Clothes For Menopause Belly
Let’s start with the bloated tummy that just won’t quit.
Fear not, my friend – there are plenty of clothes for menopause belly!
Instead of reaching for tight-fitting tops and dresses, opt for flowy tunics or blouses that draw attention to your fabulous arms, shoulders, and neckline.
High-waisted pants and skirts are also a great choice, as they cinch in at the narrowest part of your waist and create the illusion of a flatter tummy.
And don’t forget about the power of accessories! A statement necklace or pair of earrings can draw the eye upward, away from your belly.
There are so many different dress styles, you will find one that works for you!
Let’s take a look at the best clothes for menopause belly.
Flowy Tunics: These comfortable and chic tops are not just on-trend, they’re a blessing for your belly – providing plenty of room, without compromising on style.
High-Waisted Pants: Say hello to comfort meets elegance. These gems nip in just the right place, giving you a smoother, elongated silhouette – and they’re your BFF for tucking in those love layers.
Wrap Dresses: The ultimate figure-flatterer! Wrap dresses cinch you in at the waist and gracefully float over your tummy, so you can make a statement while still keeping it all ‘under wraps’.
A-Line Skirts: The A-line is like the superhero of skirts, swinging in to save the day by drawing attention to your waist and skimming over the tummy area – all with a playful twirl.
A-Line Dresses – A-line dresses are the secret superstars to hide your belly, swooping in with their magical flare to celebrate your shape and keep you twirling with confidence.
Empire Line Tops: It’s not just empire-building; it’s empire-lining! The genius cut under the bust allows the fabric to drape softly over your midsection, offering comfort and camouflage.
Peplum Tops: With a flirty ruffle that kicks out from the waist, peplum tops create an hourglass effect that’s both forgiving and fabulous.
Layered Looks: Cardigans, open button-downs, and cascading vests can add dimension to your outfit and subtly shield your belly, all while letting you express your layering prowess.
Printed Ensembles: Patterns can be your playful partners in crime; they draw the eye away from your belly and into the artful dance of colors and shapes.
Remember, gorgeous, dressing during this phase is all about feeling comfortable in your own evolving skin – your sense of fashion doesn’t have to skip a beat just because your body is changing its rhythm.
Put on that smile and sashay away with confidence. Your closet is your castle, and you rule it, belly and all!
It's Getting Hot in Here: Understanding Hot Flushes
Hot flushes/flashes are menopause’s exclamation points. They arrive unannounced and can be triggered by anything from a sip of wine to stress. They’re the ninjas of the menopause world – silent, swift, and deadly to your comfort.
Understanding how to manage them is like learning to dance; it’s a mix of finesse and forward planning.
I’ve had hot flushes at the most inconvenient times: work meetings, dinner dates, and even in the freezer aisle of the supermarket. It turns out, the only arsenal you need against them is a collection of breathable fabrics and a sense of humour.
Layer Up, Layer Down: The Art of Layering
The key to controlling the climate of your wardrobe is mastering the layers.
Think of it as building a wardrobe that’s a multitool; it should be able to tackle any weather front that comes your way.
It’s about having a core outfit that’s comfortable and adding or shedding items as needed, without compromising on style.
Layering is not just functional; it can be extremely fashionable. An unbuttoned cardigan can give a plain T-shirt a hint of elegance, and a scarf isn’t just a tool for warmth; it’s a canvas for personality.
Have you seen those exotic-looking women, who casually throw a lightweight scarf around their shoulders and look so elegant? I want that!
Whenever I am feeling extra belly bloat, the best thing I have in my tool kit is a long shirt dress which I wear with a light weight cardigan. It nips in at the waist, skims over the tum and I can even tie the cardigan around my waist if I get too hot and need extra coverage!
When thinking about best clothes for menopause belly, do think about strategic layers! Think about our fave sitcom stars using layers to hide the fact they are pregnant!
Choosing Fabrics That Are Your New BFFs
During menopause, your relationship with fabrics will change. Say goodbye to non-breathable materials that stifle you and welcome in the new era of comfort.
Fabrics like cotton, linen, and bamboo have the fantastic property of letting your skin breathe, which can make all the difference when a hot flash hits.
You might notice polyester and acrylic items slowly migrating to the back of your closet. Natural fibres are not just your cool companions; they tend to have a more forgiving drape, which can be very flattering.
Not only can these fabrics help you breathe but they do not stick to your lumps and bumps like a barnacle to a whale. Pulling static clothing off your belly every five minutes is not the look we are going for!
When looking for clothes for menopause belly really think about what will cling to the bloat and what will skim past it. Think loose cottons and hard cotton shirts.
Picking the Right Colours and Patterns in Clothes For Menopause Belly
Believe it or not, the colours and patterns you choose for your clothing can influence your comfort level during menopause.
Cool blues and greens can create a mental oasis, while busy prints and bright reds might trigger the psychological equivalent of a hot flash.
I used to think patterned tops were my gateway to wild expression until I realised a perfect balance can be achieved with a pop of colour in a well-placed accessory.
And when in doubt, a solid, light-toned top is your friend.
Aside from anything a bright, patterned bit of clothing hides a world of sins. No lumps to be seen here guys and yes if I overheat during a hot flush, the sweat is never noticed! WIN!
The Elastic Fantastic: Why Stretchy Waistbands are a Game-Changer
Once the symbol of fashion laziness, the stretchy waistband is now a beacon of comfort. That’s right; the yoga pants era doesn’t have to be just for yoga.
Look for trousers with elastic panels or skirts with a forgiving waistline – these subtle details can make all the difference in how you feel throughout the day.
The beauty of modern elastic waistbands is they often come incognito. And when paired with a smart belt or a longer top, you have comfort that’s cunningly disguised as chic.
Yes, I have worn my pregnancy pants, skirts and dresses during this new phase of my life and I carry no shame about it!
Skinny jeans are not the best clothes for menopause belly, in fact as much as we think they will suck it it, they just highlight it even more!
Accessorise with Purpose
Accessories are the exclamation marks of a woman’s wardrobe – they help you express who you are or how you’re feeling without saying a word.
During menopause, where comfort is key, accessories can be the secret weapons in your style arsenal. They don’t spike the temperature, but they can elevate your mood and outfit.
Scarves are my personal style champions. They’re light enough to tie around your neck as a pop of colour, yet substantial enough to unfurl in the office ‘summer’ heat.
A nice long scarf can hide menopause belly, if placed properly.
And a great pair of statement earrings can make you look polished even when you feel anything but. I know this sounds mad, but the bigger the earrings, the less anyone is looking at your tum!
Swimwear for Those Daring Dips
Ah the swimsuit – my nemesis.
When you are worried about your belly, the last thing you want to do is climb into a skintight swimsuit.
Thankfully there are so many swimsuits out there these days that have tummy control. That just pull you in gently in the areas you need it too most.
I get mine from M&S – they have a great selection and I always go back each year for some new styles.
If you opt for a nice breathable fabric, you can avoid hot flush issues and still feel a little more confident when strutting around the pool!
Sleepwear that Hugs You to Sleep
OK so a fluffy onesie might not be the way to go to keep cool or to avoid looking pregnant.
From moisture-wicking pyjamas to cool nightgowns, the sleepwear market has you covered (literally). There are so many lovely cool cotton pyjama sets out there that can hide our tummy.
M&S, again, are my go to for nice sleepwear that are slimming, cool and super comfortable. Summer months, I go for the shorts set but still with the soft cotton fabrics.
And don’t forget, the right sleepwear isn’t just about the practical; a touch of elegance even in slumber can bring a serene start to every new day.
Let's Talk About Shapewear for Confidence
As women, our bodies are constantly evolving, whether we like it or not.
But fear not, my fellow ladies, for shapewear is here to help!
The best shapewear items for menopause are those that offer support and smoothing for areas that may have shifted, such as the waistline and hips.
Look for high-waisted briefs or shorts that offer a bit of compression without digging in or causing discomfort.
And don’t forget the importance of a good bra – as our bodies change, so too can our bustlines! Finding a comfortable and supportive bra that makes you feel fabulous is worth its weight in gold.
Here are some more items to help with anything from hiding our belly fat and embracing our menopausal body shape.
Empower-Hug High-Waisted Smoothers: Just like the comforting embrace of a good friend, these high-waisted smoothers wrap around your midsection, offering a gentle squeeze that smoothes without squishing the life out of your party vibes.
Bust-a-Move Supportive Camis: For those days when your girls need a lift, these camis come with a built-in support system that’s as encouraging as your bestie cheering you on!
Cooling Queen Briefs: Combat those hot flashes with these ultra-breathable briefs that feel like a soft, cool breeze on a sweltering summer day.
Freedom Feels Full-Body Suit: Imagine a hug that fits your entire body – that’s the Freedom Feels suit. It supports you in all the right places while allowing you to move like the graceful queen you are.
Smooth Sailing Leggings: Slip into these when you want that sleek silhouette without the squeeze. It’s like the leggings are giving your legs a motivational pep-talk, smoothing without the pressure!
Joyful Jumpsuit Shaper: Who says shapewear can’t be the main event? Step into this joyful jumpsuit and wear it under a dress or rock it solo. It shapes and celebrates your figure in all its glory!
All of these clothes for menopause belly will help in any other area you are feeling a little unconfident about.
Remember, ladies, shapewear should be your sidekick, not your supervillain. Choose pieces that make you feel good, give you a boost of confidence, and add a spring to your step!
Dont Restrict Your Shape
I know, I know, this follows a section on shapewear but what I mean by this is understanding your body type and what clothing items are going to make you feel worse!
Women should be able to wear whatever they want without fear of judgment. However, when it comes to dealing with menopause stomach, certain clothing items may not be the most comfortable choice.
Tight-fitting jeans, high-waisted pants, and any clothing with a tight waistband can make you feel less than your best.
I have said it before and I will say it again, skinny jeans are not the best clothes for menopause belly!
Instead, opt for looser-fitting clothing with an elastic waistband for a more comfortable and confident look. Don’t sacrifice feeling good for the sake of a trend.
Fashion should always work for you, not the other way around. So, go ahead and wear that flowing dress, it’s time to prioritise comfort and embrace the beautiful woman that you are during this transition.
Let’s celebrate each and every body type!
Final Thoughts on Dressing for This Stage of Life
Finding the best clothes for menopause belly will be harder for some than others. But please know that there are options out there for us!
The way you dress can be a reflection, a support, and an extension of the grace and humour with which you handle this change.
Dressing for menopause is the ultimate balancing act of comfort and style, but it’s a feat you don’t have to accomplish alone.
Your wardrobe should be as flexible and dynamic as you are, ready to dance, sleep, work, and play through this incredible life transition.
Remember, the best-dressed woman in the room is the one who feels the most ‘herself’ – hot flashes, cooler moments, and all.
Now, go forth and conquer the menopausal runway. You are fabulous, fierce, and most importantly, you’re comfortable.
It’s time to claim your style – and your menopausal experience – as uniquely yours.
Kathryn x
Kathryn
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, herbal or physical therapist, and I am not educated in the menopause space. All opinions expressed on this blog are my own and should not be taken as medical advice. This blog is intended to share my personal experiences and insights, and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified medical professional, herbal or physical therapist for any health-related concerns. Additionally, I strive to keep things light and entertaining, but please keep in mind that the topics discussed on this blog may be sensitive or triggering for some readers.
The perimenopause Symptom Tracker
Is your doctor not taking your symptoms seriously?
I was 38 and perimenopausal and no one would take me seriously, so I spent months tracking my symptoms and went back to the doctor armed with as much data as I could. Only then was I tested and it was confirmed I was Perimenopausal.
Get your facts and symptoms in order with this symptom tracker and then present it to your doctor, clearly showing what is happening and when.
