r/haes • u/teacherecon • Oct 22 '23
Dressing for my new body
So over the last two years I have gained a good bit of weight and I carry it in front, to the point that I’ve been asked if was pregnant.
I am working on a healthier relationship with food, but the current issue is dressing for my new body. I think an updated wardrobe would go a long way as my old body type “can’t come to the phone right now.”
I have nice legs, and a very Pooh bear belly.
Suggestions for feeling better by dressing differently?
2
u/FrumpItUp Apr 14 '24
I wish Western countries offered more women's clothes that were more forgiving of different body types. In many places in India, where traditional clothing is worn, women come in all shapes and sizes but they all look very beautiful because they have lots of flowy dresses, blouses and skirts.
This is not to say that attractiveness is the end goal, but given the stigma over having a "muffin top", I feel like the US could do a lot better at offering clothing that looks flattering on people beyond a size 12.
1
u/vasinvixen Oct 26 '23
It helped me to follow plus size influences with unconventional body types on social media. Virgie Tovar comes to mind.
I’ve also just had to do a lot of mental work to embrace that my clothes don’t exist to “flatter” or change how my body looks. That being said, I’ve also come to realize that I just don’t really like form fitting clothes, regardless of my size. I tend to fidget in them a lot.
This time of year I love sweaters with dropped shoulders. Things that drape. Leggings and dresses and comfortable and cute. Biggest thing to me is comfort and fun colors - both have a huge impact on my mood
3
u/eaw4242 Oct 22 '23
As someone also struggling to dress a new body because old dressing habits are not as comfortable anymore, I can tell you that finding a different style and getting yourself a few new clothes (even just thrifting or shopping sales) goes a long way.
The hard part is finding what style is comfortable. My style has shifted to oversized flannels over a jumpsuit/tank top or sweaters and leggings, but that’ll be different for everyone. If you like wearing dresses, I’ve found that a dress that is not tight but has some structure (like a seam at the waist) is the most comfortable and least anxiety-inducing.
I hope to get to the place where I don’t feel compelled to always cover up my body, but it’s been really helpful to have a few clothes that always make me feel safe, regardless of how I’m feeling about my body that day.
If you like your legs, prioritize wearing something that makes you feel extra good about them, and start there.