Why I Only Buy Stretchy Clothes: My Body-Accepting Style (and Mindset!) Adjustment
Let’s talk about clothes, bodies, and feeling good. For years I struggled with feeling discontent with aspects of my body, falling into comparison traps and external measures of a “perfect” size. I was horrible to myself about it! But I was forced to address self judgements when my health deteriorated and my weight started fluctuating between a UK12 and a UK16. That’s when I had an epiphany: my clothes should fit ME, not the other way around.
Now, I’m all about stretchy clothes. I mean timeless, versatile pieces that flatter my figure now / today / daily, and comfortably adapt to any beautiful, natural weight fluctuations (which for me can be day-to-day, due to inflammation / fluid retention / what I’ve eaten / how I’ve slept / stress / life!)
This isn’t just about comfort (though that’s a must for me due to my irritable goblin tendencies.) It’s about body kindness, self-encouragement, and taking control of my style narrative. Whatever size we are today, we deserve reliable, comfortable staple clothes that make us feel how we want to feel on the day.
On my anxiety days, I’m so grateful to have basic stretchy go-to items to throw on and know I look presentable for whatever the day brings. (See my Amazon Shop for many of my favourite items.)
Why Stretchy Is Now My Go-To:
- Less Size Anxiety: Stretchy fabrics are forgiving on all kinds of curvy lumps and bumps (if you know what I mean.) Having stretchy daily staples means reduced stress around dressing and going out – and not crying ‘I’ve got nothing to wear’ because things are tight or feel uncomfortable – especially on days my weight is fluctuating. My stretchy clothes fit smoothly and flatteringly, and that’s all that matters.
- Versatility is Queen: A stretchy high waist trouser can be dressed up with heels for a night out or paired with sneakers for a casual brunch. Stretchy or loose fit tops can be tucked or belted to go from meetings to a relaxed evening with friends. Stretchy clothing is versatile clothing!
- Comfort That Moves With You: Life’s too short for clothes that dig, pinch, or restrict. (Or shoes for that matter – see my favourite rubber soled wide fit heels!) Stretchy fabrics offer all-day comfort, whether I’m working from home, running errands, or travelling. (Bonus : I choose iron-free fabrics, especially when choosing comfortable travel clothes.)
- Empowering My Body, Today: Today I make purchasing choices with the aim of feeling good in my clothes, and appreciate how my clothes serve me.
With simpler, stretchier items I can celebrate my happy areas (helloooo jewellery!) and accept my body however it is today. I don’t have to be a cheering optimist about every detail of myself, but I can be a kind best friend who gently loves and accepts me for all my flaws and foibles.
Finding Our Unique Style
Stretchy fabrics have seamlessly integrated into reliable daily staples that I really enjoy. Truly, I’m not sure I’d go back to having less stretch in my wardrobe. Partly because I like the choices of self-kindness and empathy it signifies; of me helping my body be cared for and comfortable and nicely dressed. And also because this journey has given me a longer term view and understanding of my body’s evolving needs – and stretch supports that. I’ve grown to appreciate how the stretch serves me and my body on our team adventures.
Whatever style we choose, it’s about finding what makes us feel confident and comfortable in our everyday, so we can focus on what’s important : living. ❤️
My Stretchy Style Staples: (all in my Amazon store.)
Here are a few of my most frequently relied on style basics that I reach for on good days, bad days… pretty much every day TBH.
- Elastic belt: Flexible cinching for waist illusion, and completes any outfit.
- Scoop neck / Wide V-neck tees: Showcase the neckline! (Jewelleryyyy)
- Sheer blouses: Cinch with a belt or tuck in for simple sophistication.
- High waist seamed trousers (quick dry / no iron): I pretty much live in these! My top daily go-to for life, travel, everything! Comfortable, flattering, smoothing and visually leg-lengthening.
- Stretchy Ponte leggings: Look polished but feel like pajamas.
A Final Note:
This is what I’ve experienced on my journey, and what’s been helpful for me. Fashion is a personal expression, and there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Whether we love stretchy clothes, structured pieces, or a mix of both (stretchy structured yes plz!) the most important thing is to choose clothes that make us feel good in our practical daily lives. 💕
Thanks for visiting! If you liked this article or are curious to dive deeper, I invite you to explore my other articles on life, luxury and everything in between. ✨
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