A reader recently wrote to me and asked: “How do I look good when I’m overweight? I am menopausal and find jackets difficult to wear with long cardigans underneath, as I live in the Arctic.”
First, it’s important to recognize that being overweight is not a body shape. There are many different body shapes, and what looks good will depend on understanding and dressing for your specific shape. So, start by identifying your body shape—whether it’s an apple, pear, hourglass, or rectangle—because that will guide you to styles that enhance your natural proportions.
Layering Tips for Comfortable, Stylish Winter Dressing
If you’re menopausal and experiencing hot flushes, layering can be tricky. Jackets may feel constricting when paired with thicker layers like cardigans. Here are some tips for layering comfortably while keeping style in mind:
- Opt for fine layers instead of bulky ones. Thin layers are easier to wear under jackets and allow you to adjust your temperature by adding or removing them as needed.
- Avoid wearing thick cardigans under jackets as it creates too much bulk. Instead, choose lightweight cardigans or tops made from breathable fabrics like cotton or fine wool blends.
- Consider open-front cardigans or waterfall styles that create a vertical line and elongate your frame, which can have a slimming effect without adding bulk.
- If you’d describe a fabric as chunky, it will add bulk to your frame – best avoided.
How to Look Stylish with Flat Shoes in Winter
If you live in a cold climate and prefer wearing flat shoes, knee-high boots are your best friend! Flat knee-high boots not only keep your legs warm, but they also look stylish with dresses and skirts. When wearing knee-high boots with dresses:
- Opt for dresses that fall just below the knee, which creates a balanced look with the boots.
- Look for thicker fabric in your skirts, wools and fleece give you more warmth
- Layering thermal tights or leggings with your dress and boots adds warmth while keeping your silhouette sleek.
Avoid Hat Hair with These Simple Winter Tips
Hat hair can be a real challenge, especially in freezing climates. While it’s tough to fully avoid it, here are a few tips to minimize the issue:
- Choose a looser-fitting hat made from materials like cashmere or wool blends that don’t press down too hard on your hair.
- Before putting your hat on, smooth your hair back into a low ponytail or braid. This reduces the impact on your style.
- Once you remove your hat, run your fingers through your roots or keep a small travel-sized bottle of dry shampoo handy to fluff up your hair again.
Finding Comfortable Trousers for Sitting
Finding trousers that are both comfortable and flattering can be tricky, especially if your thighs expand when you sit. Luckily, fashion trends are in your favour right now!
- Wide-leg trousers or trousers with a relaxed fit through the thighs are back in style. These give you more room to move and sit without feeling constricted while also offering a modern silhouette.
- Look for fabrics with some stretch, such as cotton blends with elastane, so the trousers move with you while sitting.
Finding Cool-Coloured Wool for Knitting
You should be able to find a wide range of cool-coloured wool for knitting in most stores or online. If you’re struggling to find cool tones where you usually shop, try expanding your search to different retailers. Many yarn shops, both local and online, carry a wide array of colours, including cool blues, greens, purples, and greys. When searching online, use keywords like “cool-toned yarn,” “blue wool,” or “grey knitting yarn” to narrow down your options. Don’t forget to check for sample images or shade cards to ensure the colours match your expectations before purchasing.
Visiting a local speciality yarn shop can also be incredibly helpful as staff often have expertise in colour selection and can guide you toward suitable options. If you’re still not finding what you need, consider looking at yarn-dyeing kits to create your own perfect cool tones, or explore independent dyers on platforms like Etsy, who often offer customisable colourways. Lastly, keep an eye out for sales or end-of-season discounts to stock up on your favourite cool shades at a lower cost.
Fashionable and Comfortable all Winer
Dressing stylishly and comfortably during winter—or any season—comes down to understanding your unique needs and preferences. Whether it’s layering to manage menopausal hot flushes, choosing flattering trousers for comfort, or finding the right accessories to stay warm without compromising style, there are practical solutions for every challenge. Embrace fashion trends that work for you, experiment with versatile layering, and explore creative options like knitting to add personal touches to your wardrobe. With a little planning and a focus on what makes you feel your best, you can enjoy a winter wardrobe that’s both functional and fabulous.
