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Weight loss and changing body shape

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

So most of you know that I joined Lean Eating in January with the hopes of losing excess weight and getting into better shape. In total I've only lost 12 pounds and one clothing size. I'm disappointed to have not met my goal but with all the life ups and downs over the last year, I'm going to give myself some slack and just be pleased with what I did accomplish.

Strangely enough, the changes have presented some frustration. The inches I lost were in very specific locations - from just below the bustline to my waist, my thighs and my butt. This resulted in me going down 1-2 sizes in tops which is lovely but has actually made fitting trousers even more difficult because I did not lose much in the way of inches on my waist to hip area. So trousers that fit me in the legs and butt are too tight in the waist and conversely, if they fit my waist are too big in the legs and droopy in the behind.

And now that my upper waist area is significantly smaller, my lower mid section seems all the more huge to me - in fact I find in some of my dresses, from the side I look pregnant. Not a good look - especially at 50!

I'm finding different silhouettes are working for me that did not before - like the burgundy skinnies and trousers that fit lower on the waist like my blackwatch tartan ones. But pants that sit higher up no longer work and has resulted in a few of these going into the purge-holding zone.

I'm reaching more for my pencil skirts with tops since I'm almost like two different sizes now and less for my dresses. Even the B44 dress which fit great a month ago is now feeling yucky on.

I guess I'll just have to figure this out as I go along...

ETA: Whoops - just realized I meant to post this in Off Topics. My apologies.

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29 replies

Latest reply was from Mochi

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Well, first off, congratulations! Considering all you have had going on health wise, family wise, and every other way, I think this was a huge accomplishment.

Also, I hear you. For my weight loss, I lost LAST from the belly area you mention. Part of that is actually due to the ways our bodies hold on to fat that comes with stress. So, this is just to say that midway through my progress I was in a similar place. The belly fat did come off eventually. So, if you are able to persist with your nutritional changes and exercise, you should see continued...er...diminishment in that area. In the meantime your clothing strategies sound excellent!

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

I have asked Greg if he would kindly move this thread to the Off Topics section as it doesn't really apply to the main forum.

Suz - I knew of all people you would get where I was coming from and I thank you for your wisdom

celia

Veteran

Congratulations on the weight lost.
We are always our worst critics and probably you are the one still staring at that specific part of your body instead of all the other toned and lean parts that other people notice.
I imagine that it has been challenging but the final result always seems great and your outfits haven't suffered from that.
Keep strong

christieanne

Veteran

Maybe you don't see the change on the scale, but honestly the other day I had a moment to glance at forum and saw a daily photo you posted. My first thought was "great outfit" but second was that your body had changed.
Play with the things you have in different ways and ride with it. If you feel good, that is really what matters

Anonymous

Umm, I cannot help but commiserate. As a result of my workouts, I lost inches out of my high waist while gaining a bit of muscle on my legs. The result, a subtle but problematic change in my body. Plus, I am dealing with water retention ack. Anyhow, I just wanted to tell you that you are one of the sharpest dressers around here and that you will figure this out! Congrats on your weight loss. 12 pounds are not a small feat.

Gaylene

Veteran

I think that anytime our bodies change, it is a bit disconcerting and requires a period of adjustment. I know that I was happy to lose weight because I did it for health reasons, but I also felt a bit ambivalent when I realized that my smaller size also went hand-in-hand with a more gaunt-looking face--not something that I enjoyed when I looked at my 64 year-old face in the mirror.

My advice would be to spend some time exploring different companies to check out their different fits. In my case, I discovered J Crew worked well for me because their pants sit below my waist and fit a small hip/large waist shape. They also cut a high armhole which I find much more flattering on my upper body and bust than the lower armhole found on most women's wear.

I sometimes think losing the weight and getting in shape was the easier part because it surprised me how much thought, time, and expense it took for me to figure out how to dress a different body shape.

ETA: And I found that a smudge of blush, a swipe of concealer, and the judicious application of highlighter in certain spots made a huge difference on the face that stared back at me in the mirror. I'm ever so grateful to the young girl at the MAC counter who helped me overcome my make-up prejudices.

Echo

Veteran

Kudos to you for your hard work and weight loss! That is an accomplishment, and do not belittle it by saying "only".

But I think we all face this when we lose weight because it can be unpredictable where we will lose, and it can change depending on stress, age, hormone levels, etc. I used to get excited about weight loss and would buy an item for when I had lost a certain number of pounds. I would find that the item did not fit properly, even if it technically would fit over my body. I had not bargained on my shape changing along with my weight.

You will get used to your new shape and come to love it as much as the one you were used to. It will take an adjustment in terms of what looks good on you and what alterations you might need, but it WILL work.

jayne

Veteran

Oh i am so happy for you. Losing weight is absolutely not easy. I wish I had advice but I suspect a little venting is just the ticket you needed. I assume the weight loss will continue and you'll get new challenges with another new body. It is nice to share the journey.

Parsley

Veteran

Shannon, I've been noticing how trim you've been looking lately! Don't be too hard on yourself that it's not going as quickly as you'd like. Twelve pounds is good progress, and with losing more slowly hopefully you're more likely to not only continue, but also to keep the weight off. You've had a heck of a year, and you deserve congratulations for your accomplishment in the face of all the difficulties!

I can totally relate to the issue of body changes and the challenge of learning how to dress different proportions. I've lost some weight this year, too, and I'm finding that I need to learn what works for my new shape. Most of it is good, but sometimes I wish I could choose where I want to lose those pounds! I'm aggravated to still have more of a muffin top than I thought I would, although it's at least smaller. I'd really like to transfer some of that belly fat to my derriere which has become nonexistent! Oh well- dressing our bodies is bound to always present challenges.
Anyway, keep up the good work- you look amazing!

Glory

Veteran

Shannon you look terrific and I want to also say congrats on the 12 pounds. Suz is right that the stomach area is the hold out but eventually gives in as well Your idea of separates is a great one! I have loved your looks this week!

Mo

(website)

Veteran

Congrats first off! I think the lower rise pants are a great solution.
I have the opposite problem right now - only 2 extra pounds but it's an inch more on my torso - and that's giving me fit issues, too. I feel more rectangular and less hourglassy lately. I'm trying to see the silver lining in that some styles might fit or look better that didn't use to.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Shannon, I have no words of wisdom. Instead, I have lots of applause for your incredible efforts, wonderful attitude, and ongoing killer style. You are simply divine no matter what. xo

Caro in Oz

Veteran

I think i understand how you feel, but from the outside i see you making fab choices about your clothing. Your style is just getting more & more refined imo. Skinnies & tartan pants spring immediately to mind

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I understand. When I lost about 15 lbs it definitely came off my midsection and not so much my thighs, alas. All the running I was doing definitely helped my muscle tone but did not slim down my legs as much as I would have liked. As a result, I might be a little more pronounced hourglass than I was before, or a little more pear-ish. Not what I wanted, but that's what I got. So I had to do down as much as two sizes in shirts, but only slightly to accommodate my legs, and then get waistbands tailored!

But I've got to agree with the others -- you look fantastic, and are to be commended for your commitment to healthy new habits! Good luck as you continue your efforts. You are indeed inspiring!

catgirl

Veteran

Well, overall I think you are looking really slender and you have waist definition I can only dream of, lady. Don't be down on yourself - it's actually convenient and probably not a coincidence that your style shift and weight shift are happening at once.

DonnaF

Veteran

Shannon, Shannon, Shannon: Twelve pounds on us height challenged gals is like eighteen on our taller sistahs!!! It is truly a substantial amount, and you've done it slowly enough so it is not likely to lead to yo-yo-ing up which IMHO tends to be the bigger challenge in any weight loss. Plus, with the stress you've been under it is really all the more remarkable that you have lost rather than gained weight; I know I certainly could not have done it; no ice cream and/or chocolate would have been safe from my mouth.

I read somewhere that we (women?) lose weight from the top down and gain weight from the bottom up. You may also find that your weight redistributes a bit in the ensuing months. The redistribution will occur right after you *think* you've figured out your new size and have bought a new wardrobe. Murphy's Law.

FlorenceFearne

Congratulations on your weight loss! You look wonderful at every weight I've seen, and this current weight is no exception.

I lost about 30 lbs myself, and experienced similar results. I've really tried to see the bright sides. For instance: down side - I lost almost 2 cup sizes, up side - I can buy super cute bras in the juniors department for like $5! down side - everything cut for people with a high hip-to-waist ratio leaves me with weird empty fabric "wings on my hips, up side - I can rock a straight tunic or frock like a champ now! I'm still trying to find the up side to having lost my entire derriere though. If someone knows one, I'd love to hear it!

PS - I'm now a size 2, and after a big meal, I STILL look 5 months pregnant. That tummy pooch is clearly here to stay for me. If you reach the end of your weight loss journey and find that you still have a tummy too, we can start a club. I'll be in charge of the newsletter, but I'm making you responsible for having jackets monogrammed.

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

You are all so incredibly sweet Please know that I didn't post this thread to seek your praise but I will accept it gratefully.

I'm relieved to hear I'm not the only one who has found a changing shape to be a challenge.

DonnaF I was very interested to hear about how women lose weight from the top down. I guess that explains why I needed a new bra fitting about half way through! And I do know it's true that smaller amounts of weight can make a bigger difference on us 5 footers.

It is also very true we (especially women) are our own worst critics and tend to be so hard ourselves. I'm retraining myself to look in the mirror and see the good things, not the bad. And I'm also reminding myself of how incredibly lucky I am to have my health and mobility.

Gaylene - thank you so much for the J Crew tip. Unfortunately we don't have them here in brick and mortar form, but I can order.

Echo - so true that we can't predict where the weight loss comes from. For example my shoes have gotten loose on me. What the heck? I didn't realize my feet were my problem area - lol!

Parsley - thank you for your comment "dressing our bodies is bound to always present challenges". I'm going to remind myself of that when I get frustrated.

Mo - isn't it crazy how just a few pounds can make a difference, up or down?

Una - I definitely think the shape change and style shift are connected. I'm feeling like a different version of myself, you know?

Florence - can we make the jackets animal print?

Angie - you actually choked me up a bit with your beautiful words

I can't thank you all enough for your wisdom and kindness. Jayne is right - I guess I just needed to vent a little.

Marley

Veteran

Wow Shannon - you have done great this year! Way to go! Also, in addition to all of the wise words from forum members (above) I also want to remind you that with menopause, your body is going to change, regardless of whether or not you gain or lose weight. That was a HUGE adjustment for me - I still wore the same size as always, but my clothes didn't fit me the same anymore. It took quite the adjustment - and I'm still learning - for me to figure out what styles/clothing worked on my new (but same weight) body!

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

Shannon, I echo Suz - 12 pounds and 1 size is not a small fit at all so pat yourself on the back for what you already achieved. I also noticed that you look awesomely trim lately and absolutely gorgeous. You go girl!

Beth Ann

Veteran

Well, you inspire me every day, Shannon! Actually, today, seriously, today, I thought of you as I was looking in the closet trying to decide what to wear (I'm incredibly indecisive at the moment). DH is out of town and I'm teaching, schooling the kids, doing the laundry (DH is very useful, and I miss him). I wasn't going to go to the gym.

Then I thought of your dedication, and how the body is more important that the clothing that wraps it, and.....I put on my sneakers, grabbed the kids, and did a workout. The kids played basketball on the court beneath my workout area and, amazingly, they got along terrifically well!

Then I came home and dressed with just a little more confidence, because I knew I had treated my body well.

Eating well and being active are always great style choices! Even when the body changes require relearning old ways!

donnat

Veteran

12 lbs on a 5 ft frame is alot of change. Congratulations. You really do look fabulous. Your evolving sense of style has you discovering new things, like your burgundy skinnies. Revel in how great you are lookin.

Classically Casual

Veteran

I think you've done really, really well this year!! I also think that our bodies (especially our not as young as they used to be bodies) are WAY more complicated than scientists used to think. Dr OZ recently dedicated a week, or maybe it was a month(!) to remedies for getting rid of belly fat on his show.
Frankly, if it's that difficult, maybe we should just concentrate on other healthy markers to monitor our progress. My recent weight loss of course mainly occurred in my boobs...and so it goes.

rachylou

Veteran

Oh you don't want to hear me moan and groan about weight changes and clothing frustrations again. But I sympathize completely.

A thought in retrospect: You might want to consider a relatively minimalistic approach until your weight levels off. I mean, I've spent a huge fortune on pants, trying to replace my entire pants wardrobe at once... over and over again.

Don't bother. Arghh!!

Mia

Veteran

This is not an insignificant weight loss and you look great as always. I think that a slower rate of loss may be better in the long run as not only is it challenging to shed the pounds but keep them off as well. Quick weight loss can sometimes lead to rebound weight gain.

cheryle (Dianthus)

(website)

Veteran

Just read this one and decided to go get on my elliptical trainer instead of sitting here until its time to go out. You should be very proud of yourself for sticking to it and getting back on track when life pushes you off.

Thanks for the inspirations Shannon.

unfrumped

Veteran

I can tell you that none of the frustration or problems show in your outfits! You look killer every day. You are right to "cut some slack" because negative vibes will only derail your program--holding steady, especially through the holiday season, can be a real accomplishment. You may be purging lots of items, but don't forget you can simply move anything out of the closet (to box or holding zone) that you don't feel fab in, so it doesn't cause fret and worry.

Anonymous

Shannon, again, congratulations! It is not easy fitting the thin legs, a rounded tummy and flat derriere. I think Jag jeans might be good for that shape.
My rear had gotten almost completely flat when a friend told me about "Callanetics" from the 1980's, have you ever heard of it? Apparently Pippa Middleton does it (and that was good enough for me.) She said it would make my bottom higher and rounded again, so a few months ago I bought a dvd from Amazon and I've been doing it ever since. I have to say it really works!

Mochi

Veteran

Hi, Shannon. Not a small feat at all, 12 pounds. I'm lucky if I lost that much over the entire year; my weight is fluctuating within a four or five pound range at the moment. However, I did lose a bit more in volume than would seem by the numbers alone. It looks that way for you too.

And things aren't really easier in terms of finding things that fit. I'm just fitter, that's all. But congratulations, and keep working at it. It's hard.