Confidence + Comfort
A friend of mine from way back recently asked me to write a post on confidence and fashion. She is pregnant and like most mamas-to-be, she is struggling to dress her constantly changing body to feel both fashionable and comfortable in her own skin. I remember this feeling all too well and I know most mommies can relate! She said to me, “Lizzy, how do you pull off these outfits?! I love what you wear, but I’d be too self-conscious!” I laughed because, little does she know, I have been secretly battling my own body issues lately.
If you follow me on snapchat (username: ExcessExpert), you may know that I have been trying to diagnose some mysterious issues that have been plaguing me for the past several months. After experiencing excruciating pain in my right foot, I was told I had multiple stress fractures. Then, I woke up one morning and my left knee was swollen like a giant softball. It was scary, uncomfortable, and confusing. After what felt like endless tests and doctors appointments, they finally concluded I have psoriatic arthritis. Thank goodness this is manageable with the right medication and nothing life-threatening. However, it has been quite annoying and thrown me for a lot of loops. Not only can I not exercise the way I want to, but I haven’t been able to dress the way I am used to. I’ve been on a complete hiatus from high heels and have had to find creative ways to hide my unattractive, swollen knee. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m always up for a fashion challenge. I refuse to let my limitations keep me from pushing the envelope with my statement-making-style.
Here are some tips I have for dressing comfortably while still turning heads this summer:
1. Take off the sweatpants:
When you’re pregnant or battling an injury, it can be easy to throw in the towel and throw on the sweatpants (or the summer equivalent). Don’t do it. It will only make you feel worse. Feeling good and confident on the outside will translate on the inside. There is a fine line between pushing the envelope with your style and just feeling completely out of your comfort zone, so find a look that feels like you and embrace it. From the boho-babes, to the girly-girls, to the sporty ladies, if the Spice Girls taught us one ongoing lesson, it’s that style is such a personal thing. If you need help finding a fresh look you’re comfortable with, ask a fashionable friend! I send my friends and family members links to pieces I think will look great on them all the time! Most sites have free shipping both ways, so there isn’t a huge commitment when shopping online.
2. Don’t be afraid to try something new:
My dad is an artist and he instilled in me that when it comes to looking taller, proportion is everything. Because we can’t live our lives in mini dresses and nude pumps, we have to think outside the box. As a 5’2” gal, I really did not believe I could ever pull off a midi-length dress, especially without 5-inch heels. Surprisingly, though, when the dress comes in at the waist and hits just at the most narrow part between the calf and ankle, the midi length works on a petite frame! So don’t be afraid to try on a style you’ve never worn before! Your baby bump may look super cute in overalls. Just saying!!
3. Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize:
When your body isn’t being a team player, you may feel like you have to make sacrifices with your outfit. This is where the add-ons can save the day! The right accessories can take you from fine to fabulous. Steer clear of dainty and go bold! Topping off your ensemble with a hat, or a fun pair of shades pulls a look together and exudes confidence. A vibrant bauble or bag is a great addition to brighten up your frock and your day! Since my heels are all collecting dust in my closet, flatform espadrilles have been my go-to shoe because they don’t irritate my foot or knee and they still give me a bit of a lift. Still not comfy enough? I even wore this dress with my white sneakers and it worked! Mixing a feminine floral with an athletic shoe is on-trend and adorable! Try teaming white sneakers with anything from a pencil skirt to a pair of patterned trousers! An unexpected combo is fresh and fashionable. Don't forget to walk tall and smile!
Photography by Christina Emilie