Style advice during peri/menopause: The questions I answered at the Mind Body Menopause Summit.
Without trying to overshare, at the age of 46, I haven’t yet experienced the symptoms of peri/menopause but my clients certainly have. In styling hundreds of women over the past decade with an average age is 51, I’ve learnt so much from them about the different hormonal changes and physical manifestations of menopause. I’ve seen the toll this can take on their confidence and as their stylist, it’s my job to help them feel empowered through their style.
I was delighted last Friday to be a guest presenter at the Mind Body Menopause Summit and share the virtual stage with experts talking all things menopause.
I’m sharing the questions I answered relating to style because I’ve seen firsthand with my clients how these tips can make a big difference to an age group of women that have been largely overlooked by the fashion industry.
What are some of the issues your clients face when it comes to style during menopause?
Other than the hot flushes that seem to come out of nowhere and at the most inconvenient time, my clients often experience a change in body shape. Common changes are weight gain around the tummy and breasts and a broadening of the back.
They also tell me they aren’t sure of which brands to shop anymore. They want to feel confident, sexy and feminine while at the same time not look like they’ve raided their daughter’s wardrobe.
What are your top tips for staying styling during peri/menopause?
Wear breathable fabrics.
The best choices here are natural fabrics like cotton, linen, bamboo and fine wool. Silk is also a great fabric to wear however some clients who say they sweat a lot tend to steer away from silk.
2. Wear layers.
To be able to regulate your temperature, it’s far better to be able to remove a layer rather than have to excuse yourself and go to the bathroom or outside.
Lightweight knits, blazers and trench style coats are perfect layering pieces.
3. Balance floaty fabrics with structured pieces.
Tailored pieces with help show your shape and are slimming. Balance a tailored pant with a floaty shirt French tucked.
4. Accessories are your best friend.
Inject style and personality to your basics with a great pair of earrings, rings, a great bag or shoes. I tell my clients to stay away from necklaces, especially heavy/chunky ones and these can make you feel clammy especially with the onset of a hot flush.
Should I wear prints or plain colours? What is more flattering?
I recommend my clients stick to block colours rather than prints. I work with them on colours that suit and give them an instant lift. Block colours are easier to create outfits with, wear on repeat and look different each time simply by changing accessories.
Prints can be far more limiting and you want to be sure you’re wearing the print rather than the print wearing you.
I’ve put on weight under my arms and I don’t feel comfortable wearing sleeveless tops or dresses anymore. What are some alternatives to long-sleeves?
I hear this feedback a lot from clients. Here I suggest wearing asymmetric tops or dresses that show one shoulder. These will help you feel sexy and comfortable while keeping your arms covered.
There are also tops with slits on the top of the upper arm. These keep the slimmer part of your arm and just a little skin on show.
My clothes don’t suit my lifestyle or shape anymore. What should I do?
Take a big breath. Grab pen and paper and write down how you want your clothes to make you feel.
Then look online and start saving pictures of outfits you think would make you feel that way. Save these on a Pinterest board or on your phone.
Think about your lifestyle. What do you typically do during the week and on weekends and what core basics do you need to carry you through most activities?
Once you have the answers to these you should be able to cull your wardrobe and shop for the style you want to have. If that all seems to much like hard work, contact a professional stylist like me to help.
Finally, what’s one piece of advice you can leave our audience with when it comes to style during menopause?
I believe having great style happens when you are connected to yourself and have confidence in who you are. Menopause isn’t a time to hide, it’s a time to shine.
Your best style is ahead of you.
I hope those tips help you stay stylish during your second spring. Feel free to share this article with the women in your life and if you need help reconnecting to your style, book in a free discovery call with me. Simply email me lisa@lisastockman.com.au to make a booking.
