We’re living in unprecedented times. We’ve been sheltering in place. Most of our normal activities have been upended. 

And many of us have turned to the refrigerator and pantry for comfort. Food pacifies the anxiety for a little bit.

On top of that, we’ve been living in sweatpants or yoga clothes, and we may not have noticed a weight gain until now, as we’re getting ready to get back out and be face-to-face with people.  

If things are feeling a little snug, don’t panic. Chances are those extra pounds will fade away naturally as you return to your normal activities.  Even so, I recommend you get out of those sweats asap and start wearing regular clothes again. 

Alternating between comfy clothes with elastic waistbands and garments with more structure can help you navigate this transition period. It could also surprise you. Once you get out of sweats, you may realize that although you’ve been snacking more than usual, your clothes could be saying, “You’ve worried about this more than you need to. You’re doing okay. The fit is fine for now.” 

Here’s another thing. When you wear slouchy clothes for several days in a row, you might start to feel dumpy. In “normal” life, you may have lounged in those kinds of clothes a few hours on the weekend instead of full days all week. 

Clothes that skim your body make you feel trimmer. Test this out for a day or two and see if it’s true for you. Wear clothes with a bit more structure. See if you feel better.

A lot of clothes have stretch in them, so if you’ve been gaining weight, you probably didn’t notice right away. Plus, everyone gains weight in different places. Women tend to gain weight in their bosom, hips, thighs, or waist. You know your body best. In general, it takes anywhere from an additional 7-10 pounds before you’ll actually feel the need to go up a size in clothing.

 And what if that happens? I have a few tricks up my sleeve! Join me in my upcoming Style Focus program starting on May 13.

One quick tip for right now: don’t overbuy at this point. You may only need to make a few simple purchases. A pair of jeans or pants and a few tops could be enough to tide you over. Your shoes, scarves, necklaces, and handbags still fit. I’m still wearing some of my favorite earrings from the 80’s! 

Again, don’t panic! Smile instead, and join me for Style Focus to get ready to be seen once again.