5 Tips on How to Stay Stylish During Weight Loss
Self-assurance is an important part of well-being, and this can be achieved through the way you dress. Studies have shown that dressing well can effectively boost someone’s confidence — especially benefiting those in the workplace who have seen an increase in their overall performance. Dressing for success also enables workers to draw attention between themselves and more senior employees, allowing them to positively influence and be more assured about what they do and how they operate at work. Beyond the workplace, clothing can be a great form of self-identity.
However, there are plenty of challenges before achieving the ‘perfect style.’ Many people already face the challenge of opening a closet full of clothes and deciding what to wear. This problem is compounded by their changing body shape and size caused by weight gain or loss. But instead of letting yourself go with fashion, it’s important to feel good about yourself. Not only can this inspire you and improve overall self-esteem, but this may also translate into motivation for weight loss. Here are some tips to help you stay stylish during weight loss:
Dress in clothes that fit now
When undergoing weight loss, it can be tempting to purchase smaller clothes “for the future” once you’ve lost weight. However, having plenty of clothes you can’t wear isn’t motivating for weight loss and can even slow your progress instead. This problem is exacerbated by your body’s internal plateau — also known as your set point weight. People who lose weight often quickly regain their lost pounds, as it is in their body’s nature to return to its “normal” weight range. This can be due to genetics and hormones that are out of your control. With this biological challenge, it will take extra time and effort to lower your set point weight.
Rather than wait until you have a smaller body, dress in clothes that fit now. Not only can this give you a self-esteem boost, but it can make the weight loss journey less stressful. For old clothes that have become too loose, consider selling your clothing. Not only does selling help clean out your closet, but it allows you to make money that can be used for new clothes for the new you. By having fewer clothes in the closet, you can ease the decision-making process.
Invest in versatile pieces
As you lose weight, your clothing size will change, and it can become expensive to try and adjust your wardrobe every so often. Instead of spending lots of money to get tailor-fit pieces along your weight-loss journey, you should invest in versatile clothing. Some pieces you should consider as part of your wardrobe are:
- Tops with a stretchy knit, spandex, or cotton material
- Jackets and sweaters
- Stretchy denim
- Skirts with an elastic waist
Most of the aforementioned clothing can adjust to your shrinking size. Remember not to blindly follow trends online, as these pieces may be things that you’re not going to really wear. For the best choices, do in-depth research on your body type and find what flatters your body while staying comfortable.
Embrace tailoring and adjustments
When you lose weight, your clothes become loose and, sometimes, unflattering to your body. Fortunately, you can always get them readjusted. Having your clothes altered is great as you can complement your unique body type when needed. But considering how tailoring isn’t cheap, it’s important to take good care of your clothing through proper cleaning and other tools. You can maintain your clothes through hand-washing, using tools like a steam hand press, and other care products.
When taking clothes to a tailor or seamstress for the first time, here are some things you should keep in mind:
- Ask for the cost of the alterations upfront – Most tailors don’t have set pricing as it depends on the client’s request, but having a cost estimate can best prepare you for expenses as necessary.
- Respect your tailor’s limits – Depending on your tailor’s skill, they may be unable to make complicated adjustments. It’s also good to ask if they will accept special materials like silk or stretch fabrics.
- Give your tailor time – Communicate with your tailor the estimated duration before the release of your clothing. Avoid having a last-minute tailor request, or else expect to be refused or charged a rush fee.
Accessorize strategically
Even if you can’t wear multiple layers of clothing for a unique spin, accessories can go a long way in styling oneself. Unlike clothing, accessories can be used at any stage of your weight loss journey.
For instance, one accessory you can’t go wrong with is a brooch, a decorative jewel that aids flair to an outfit. As tackled in our guide to brooches, this piece can be placed almost anywhere, from dresses to bags. Some of the most popular types include the pendant, bar, and enamel brooch, to name a few. On the other hand, your shoes can also make your outfit stand out.
Don’t define yourself by your body shape
Whether your body is making changes or not, it’s important to love and accept your body. Your attitude is linked to your clothing choice— nothing can inspire more confidence than looking good or self-consciousness when you try to hide your body behind baggy clothing. Dressing to impress is about accentuating parts of yourself that you love, which is why you should have your clothing choices spotlight these features while minimizing attention to parts you don’t like.
As mentioned, you should dress to fit your current body and invest in versatile pieces. Even if you don’t see visible weight loss progress, continue with your healthy habits and keep building your wardrobe of flexible clothing with things you like. This can help your clothing feel more established rather than temporary.
Finding the right clothes can be challenging when your body is changing. But if you follow the above tips, you will remain stylish even during weight loss, boost your confidence, and enjoy the present you.
