Hello August! Wow, what a summer we are having and what an opportunity this weather presents to wear every single item of summer clothes in our wardrobes. Unfortunately the ‘naked’ look or swimsuit-to-work look is simply not an option! Whether or not you are a sun worshipper and whatever your shape or size, light airy clothes are a must-have this year. With very successful weight loss medication on the market, the door has finally opened for people who previously did not have the capacity to lose a lot of weight. The only downside to this is that your weight is constantly dropping so summer clothes you might have once loved, are just too big now.
When you are losing weight quickly, focus your summer wardrobe on adjustable, stretchy and budget-friendly transitional pieces like wrap dresses, elastic-waist or drawstring linen pants. There is no point in investing in any expensive items, as they may only be fitting you and wearable for a few weeks. Spend on stretchy underwear and bin the ones that no longer fit. I’m sure that when you look into your wardrobe, it’s like walking into a museum of sizes that you have already passed through. It can be a bit of a nightmare as your clothes no longer sit right, don’t drape right and, most importantly, they no longer feel like you. It is a challenge learning how to dress during the process. You no longer feel invisible and you don’t want to be invisible so don’t let your clothes make you feel like you are. This is easily fixed.
If you are on a weight loss drug, then the pace you will lose weight at is faster than most closets or budgets can handle, especially if you’re over 50. The extra skin, which can fold or hang, is a new thing, as are the ‘bat wings’ that weren’t there before. There could be softer inner thighs and back rolls that will make certain fabrics a ‘hard no’. One size styles and smartly-cut pieces can cover a wide size range without looking like a sack. The magic is in the fabric (cotton or linen), the drape, and the cut from the shoulders to the hips, not a size on the tag. Think of this season as the ‘intermission dressing’ season. The goal is a flexible, smart mini-closet that moves with you while your body is changing.
So what does deserve your hard earned cash now? You need to look for pieces that flex with you through many sizes, respect loose skin and still look intentional, especially when you are pairing them with that favourite designer bag. Look for Italian cut linen pants – Google it if you don’t know what I’’m talking about – they have an elasticated waistband and fit beautifully. They are wide, with a loose leg that skim over tummy, thighs and any extra skin that might have evolved.There are a ‘no fuss’ pants, minus back pockets – which can add bulk! You are looking for a top that skims the tummy area rather than a blunt line across.As the weather cools down (or in the evening) you can wear a string top under a top – to hold you in place. Tops with structure in the shoulder, even if the hemline is not stiff and straight, add a more polished look, and you avoid a ‘sloppy’ overall look.
Try to avoid tunics that cut your legs in half, seek out ones that end at the hips, it’s a far more flattering look. Your aim should be an intentionally relaxed look rather than an oversized look.
A long sheer lightweight cardigan or kimono robe can become your chic security blanket. Arms can often be the last place that a woman wants to show after rapid weight loss and years of fluctuating sizes. Look for one (or two) in as thin a material as possible – they are a wonderful layering piece that you can throw on over anything, without adding bulk or heat, and they give instant glamour! Completely open at the front, a soft breathable fabric and just enough arm coverage to make you forget about your loose skin and focus on your beautiful face. Perhaps buy two, one for everyday and another slightly more dressy one!
Be cautious of thin stretchy jersey material that will grab every line and fold. Avoid stiff cotton, as it will tent out from the widest point in your body and obviously any clingy body con is a definite no-no.
Use colour to draw the eye up, deeper shades on the bottom, slightly brighter or face-flattering colours near your neckline. Choose sleeves that hit just above or below the elbow to soften the upper arm.
Remember that this is your intermission wardrobe and it does not require investment, as you are just passing through. There are lots of sales already on, so you might just find some great bargains on quality pieces at a fraction of what they normally retail for. Be steadfast in your splurging and save it for when you are finally ready to invest. When your weight finally stabilises after four to six months and you are no longer in between sizes anymore is when you will know that you are moving into your long-term wardrobe. Please don’t fret and think that you have to go out and buy loads of clothes when you finally get ‘there’. We all have way too much stuff.
So, if you are somewhere between “my pants almost fell off today” and “I don’t recognise myself at all (in a good way)”, embrace this new chapter and dress to reflect your achievement.
