Comfy trousers
One of the things I personally find most frustrating about my wardrobe is when I can’t fit into certain clothes because of a small weight fluctuation. Whether it’s all the food over Christmas, normal weight gain, periods, or just bloating, it’s so frustrating to have something you love in your wardrobe and have it suddenly feel too tight to be comfortable.
I tend to find jeans and trousers are the worst culprits for this.
And I hate the feelings it brings up. You end up annoyed at the clothes, feeling like you have nothing to wear, and for many of us it can quickly spiral into how we feel about our bodies.
(I always think if my body didn’t have to enclose itself in clothes, I’d probably never think a negative thing about it.)
So today’s Joydrop is about intentionally choosing comfy trousers that can handle (within reason) small changes in your body. These are such useful pieces to have in your wardrobe alongside more structured items, because they make getting dressed feel easier rather than harder on days when we need a bit of a mental “its not your body its the clothes” mindset shift!
When you’re choosing trousers, a helpful question to ask is:
“Will these still feel comfortable on a bloated, tired, low-energy day?”
100% denim jeans are the least forgiving, simply because they have very little give. Styles with stretch, elasticated waists, softer fabrics, or a bit more drape will always feel easier and more wearable day to day, especially if you know your body naturally fluctuates.
This isn’t about avoiding structure altogether. It’s about choosing pieces that work with your body, not against it.
Even having one pair like this in your wardrobe, can make a big difference on the days your body feels different.
Here are some of the styles I have spotted online.
Some of the following items are affiliate links
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Styling these trousers:
Size of the elastic - An elasticated waist can create extra volume around the tummy area, so it’s worth paying attention to the fit. Look for a waistband that isn’t too wide and sits comfortably without digging in.
Balance the volume on top - These type of styles are relaxed, so go for a slightly more fitted or structured top (a neat knit, ribbed tee, or tucked blouse) to keep the outfit feeling intentional.
Try a half-tuck or soft tuck - A full tuck isn’t always necessary. A gentle front tuck or tucking into the waistband slightly can help define shape without clinging.
Layer with intention - Shorter knits, cropped jackets, or cardigans worn open help break up the waistband area and create vertical lines.
Pay attention to fabric weight - Softer, drapier fabrics skim the body more nicely than very stiff elastics, which can sometimes bunch and add bulk.
Use footwear to finish the look - Trainers keep it casual, ankle boots add polish, and chunkier soles help balance the relaxed fit through the leg.
Size up if you’re between sizes - Elasticated styles almost always look better when they skim rather than pull, so always size up.
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