It happens to half the human population. The time of the month where your hormones are haywire, your skin can breakout and the bloated belly appears. I don't know about you but all I want to do is live in my loungewear and fluffy socks. But the reality is I have a house to run and styling appointments to attend. So what do I do? Well, I pull my big girl pants up (and big they are) and style myself in a way that is kind to my body.
I recently spoke about the style struggles women go through when they reach certain points of their life when I was a guest on BBC Coventry &. Warwickshire radio. Be that menopausal, watching your body change after childbirth or knowing your body is going through its monthly cycle. The pressure we have as women is to be on our game; as though these things don't really take its toll on our body or even happen! But the reality is they really do! I don't think I wore a pair of jeans for at least 7 months after the birth of both my children. I recently styled a new mum who wanted an amazing pair of jeans 10 weeks after giving birth. She was getting frustrated about the size she was in. ' But why? Why the need to feel to fit into these jeans?' I asked. And she admitted it was down to wanting to feel herself again.
'LET'S BE HONEST, WHO REALLY LIKES WEARING JEANS WITH A BLOATED TUMMY?'
Now I totally get it. Of course we all want to feel ourselves, but is this going to be at the expense of our comfort and happiness? Because let's be honest ladies - who really enjoys wearing jeans with a bloated tummy? There are ways we can all feel stylish without sacrificing on comfort. And there's not a fluffy sock in sight!
1. ALL ABOUT THAT WAIST.
They are my go to for my menstrual days. I own about 4 pairs of elasticated trousers. ( I know I go on about them whenever I get the chance to ) but they really are a game changer. I have a mixture of cropped, full length, dressy and casual trousers - all with elasticated waists so I can feel absolute no shame when I'm overloading on carbs and indulging in my 'time of the month' emotional eating evening.
There's no need to sacrifice on style. These leather, elasticated waisted trousers from Hush are on the style mark. With leather being a big thing for 2020 you can be sure for extra comfort plus lots of style points. And not an awkward button fastening in sight.
If leather isn't your thing or you're after a softer fabric then Hush also do some amazing stretch waist trousers that are gentler to the skin. Pair with your leather for a look that can be worn all year round.
STYLE TIP
Style with a soft, organic cotton jumper for extra comfort and white pumps.
2. THE SKIRT
Think soft and flowing over fitted and formal. Open your wardrobe up to different styles and textures when it comes to the time of the month. Floaty skirts can be a great way to flatter your tummy. However, depending on your shape, pleated skirts can be tricky. Pleats can add extra volume to the tummy, so be sure that the skirt is working with you and not against you.
STYE TIP
Avoid stiff and rigged fabrics for the office that will only leave you feeling uncomfortable. Instead, opt for silk and satin which will feel kinder to wear. If you're feeling self conscious then choose a darker colour. Pair with tights and a knee boot for the winter and nude sandals for the warmer months.
3. MAKE IT SOFT.
When it comes to wanting that soft and cosy feeling against your skin, there's
nothing better than cashmere. We all want to feel comfort when we're feeling sluggish and not ourselves and there really is no finer luxury than cashmere. Look after it properly and it will last you years.
When shopping for cashmere have fun with it. Bold, bright cashmere is most certainly beautiful and what better way to put a spring back in your step with a bright burst of colour in your outfit.
STYLE TIP
Although you'll be paying for an investment piece don't save anything for best. Cashmere looks great for workwear, tucked into a skirt or trousers. The Style By Kate aftercare
and upkeep manual comes with free cashmere care advice for every wardrobe detox appointment.
4. YES, JOGGERS
But lets keep them stylish please yes? The oversized Kim K nude jogger look is a look that's been everywhere for 2019 - so what about switching it up for 2020? A jogger that's ruched at the bottom is a look that's feminine yet still comfortable to wear. Gap and Topshop are my favourite go to brands for this look.
STYLE TIP
Joggers with a heel? Yes please! Create the illusion of longer legs by pairing your cargo trousers with a strappy sandal and a classic white tee tucked in. Slouch your favourite leather jacket over your shoulder and you'll be thinking what period?
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