Frustrated

Elizam

With medication I've been taking I have gained a good deal of weight. I still have an hourglass shape, but wear a petite 16 or petite XL. (short-waisted, full bust/hips.) I tend to go for casual, solid color styles, accented with kind of funky accessories. But whenever I walk past a mirror, the plain styles I've chosen don't look right. They include button-down shirts, or light colors that just accentuate the weight I've gained. I can't throw everything out and start fresh on a retiree's budget. What should I do to look a little less "dumpy"?

9 years ago

Dressing

5 replies

Latest reply was from Angie

El Cee

Veteran

I can empathize as I, too, am a full-figured, high-waisted hourglass. I often find certain classic garments like button-down shirts to be less than flattering on my curves... too boxy... no waist accentuation. I started bringing some of my nicer quality shirts to the tailor to have her nip in the waists. Worked like a dream! I also use slightly low slung belts over my boxier shirts and blouses to give subtle waist definition in the right spot. This is a good starting place. I now spend my money on softer, draped tops (knits and soft wovens like silk) that accentuate my curves... often with a v-neck or deep scoop neck. They look better on my figure than traditional, crisp button-down shirts.

9 years ago

Ledonna N.

Veteran

A Talior or seamstress can be your affordable best friend. I agree with El Cee.

You could also do fitted soft jackets and sweaters with saturated colors.

I find that even in winter nice lightweight printed scarfs can make a big difference.

9 years ago

cindysmith

Veteran

Came here to say "tailoring" but these wise ladies already beat me to it. A lot of my tips come straight from reruns of "what not to wear", so my tips are not original LOL. Belts, scarves, statement necklaces are good ways to draw the eye and change the perception of an outfit, so funky accessories have more benefits than just making us smile. Jackets can have the same effect as altering a button-up shirt to make it less boxy; it creates back-to-back C's or an hourglass shape. Stacy and Clinton and their advice helped me make peace with my weight gain when I got sober; thankfully, a lot of their tips are easy and inexpensive to implement.

My last piece of "advice" is this: we humans are our own worst critics. When I think I look funny, I have to try and distance myself emotionally, and just look at the outfit objectively (like, try and imagine what I'd think if I saw it on a stranger). I've also decided that most people are probably not noticing if my shirt is weird or funny or unflattering, because they're too busy worrying about whether or not I think their pants are weird or funny or unflattering. All that to say--you probably don't look as "dumpy" as you think you do.

9 years ago

jill58

Veteran

If your profile pic is any indicator already I can tell that you don't project "dumpy"--however having gone through my own trials with medication related weight gain several years ago I can relate to the feeling. I do remember, that the first thing I did when my old clothes were no longer working, was to purchase a few new things that fit really well. I wanted, in a sense, to "own" my new weight and dress in things that made me feel comfortable and confident. Your idea of "casual, solid color styles, accented with kind of funky accessories" sounds good and I would suggest adding a few new things to make you feel more confident--maybe some new boots, a great bag, an interesting wrap...And don't feel that you can only wear solids. Maybe experiment a bit with new silhouettes. I don't think that personal style is determined by weight although too often when we put on weight there's a tendency to feel like we have to dress primarily to cover it up. I also agree with Cynthia that we are too hard on ourselves. Weight gains and losses are part of life and reflect various difficulties that we all face. I think the main thing is to approach dressing with a sense of confidence. You can always look great, try new things and stay current--weight does not have to be the determining factor.

9 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Knitted tops, and tops that float away from the body with structure in just the right places are your friends. Keep things streamlined on the bottom and arty on top.

Things need to fit - full stop. My suggestion is to do yourself a favour and get some new stuff over the next few weeks at bargain prices that make you feel great. A few fabulous outfits to tide you over can make a world of difference to your state of mind. You are SO worth it. We can help you get the fits and vibe right here if you like.

9 years ago

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