Fashion and Arthritis
Updated June 08, 2015.
Everyone has a certain style. It could be anything from a minimalist T-shirt and jeans look to Fashion Star chic. Whatever the style, men and women like to wear clothes that say, "This is who I am." They want to look good and project a positive image.
Women, especially, love to shop for clothes, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and other accessories to create the perfect look. When the look comes together, it is satisfying.
Simply put, when you look good, you feel good.
Some women with arthritis are robbed of the experience. They may have gained a few pounds because they can't exercise as much as they once did or because they are taking prednisone. You must admit, it's discouraging to go shopping only to find that nothing fits -- at least, not in the size you thought you were! There are other problems, too. Arthritic hands make it difficult to manage buttons on pretty blouses. Sore shoulders don't allow you to easily reach back zippers on dresses. Stilettos - no way!
Even accessories can be hard to manage. With limited range of motion from arthritis, it can be awkward to put on earrings or short necklaces. Some hair accessories can be tough to clip or clasp, too. And then there are the popular, oversized handbags. Forget it, too heavy.
From everything I just said, it sounds like dressing up is often a problem for people with arthritis. Casual attire isn't always problem-free either.
What about those skinny jeans that are impossible to get above your ankles?
You have to wear something. Fashion may no longer be synonymous with fun for you, but you shouldn't downgrade all the way to frumpy. There is a lot of territory between "chic" and "frumpy". Here are some ideas that will help you look your best.
1 - Make sure your clothes fit well. It makes sense for people with arthritis to dress for comfort, but a flattering fit is important, too. Tempted to buy a size larger because it is easier to put on and doesn't feel as tight? Oversized clothes will make you look heavier and that's not the look you are trying to achieve.
2 - Wear your favorite colors often. It can lift your spirits to wear colors that you love.
3 - If it is difficult for you to hook the clasp on your necklaces, buy necklaces that are at least 24 inches long so they can slip over your head. Bracelets are another way to perk up an outfit.
4 - Find comfortable walking shoes. Comfortable, cushioned, well-constructed shoes are essential for people with arthritis. Years ago, walking shoes were called orthopedic shoes. But now, walking shoes are stylish and colorful and can make a fashion statement all their own. You can look good and be kind to your feet at the same time.
5 - Hair and makeup are important, too. Create a look that makes you feel good when you look in the mirror, but at the same time, a look you can manage. If arthritis has forced you to change to a more simple hairstyle, consider highlights or hair color to enhance the style. Don't overdo your makeup but wear just enough to give yourself a healthy glow.
Arthritis forces us to reinvent ourselves in many ways. So it is with fashion and arthritis. You may not be able to keep a former look, especially if it was high maintenance, but as Elizabeth Hawkes said, "Dress to please yourself...Forget you are what you wear...Wear what you are."
Source:
The Book of Positive Quotations. Second Edition. Compiled and Arranged by John Cook. Fairview Press.
Everyone has a certain style. It could be anything from a minimalist T-shirt and jeans look to Fashion Star chic. Whatever the style, men and women like to wear clothes that say, "This is who I am." They want to look good and project a positive image.
Women, especially, love to shop for clothes, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and other accessories to create the perfect look. When the look comes together, it is satisfying.
Simply put, when you look good, you feel good.
Fashion Fades With Arthritis
Some women with arthritis are robbed of the experience. They may have gained a few pounds because they can't exercise as much as they once did or because they are taking prednisone. You must admit, it's discouraging to go shopping only to find that nothing fits -- at least, not in the size you thought you were! There are other problems, too. Arthritic hands make it difficult to manage buttons on pretty blouses. Sore shoulders don't allow you to easily reach back zippers on dresses. Stilettos - no way!
Even accessories can be hard to manage. With limited range of motion from arthritis, it can be awkward to put on earrings or short necklaces. Some hair accessories can be tough to clip or clasp, too. And then there are the popular, oversized handbags. Forget it, too heavy.
From everything I just said, it sounds like dressing up is often a problem for people with arthritis. Casual attire isn't always problem-free either.
What about those skinny jeans that are impossible to get above your ankles?
How to Look Your Best
You have to wear something. Fashion may no longer be synonymous with fun for you, but you shouldn't downgrade all the way to frumpy. There is a lot of territory between "chic" and "frumpy". Here are some ideas that will help you look your best.
1 - Make sure your clothes fit well. It makes sense for people with arthritis to dress for comfort, but a flattering fit is important, too. Tempted to buy a size larger because it is easier to put on and doesn't feel as tight? Oversized clothes will make you look heavier and that's not the look you are trying to achieve.
2 - Wear your favorite colors often. It can lift your spirits to wear colors that you love.
3 - If it is difficult for you to hook the clasp on your necklaces, buy necklaces that are at least 24 inches long so they can slip over your head. Bracelets are another way to perk up an outfit.
4 - Find comfortable walking shoes. Comfortable, cushioned, well-constructed shoes are essential for people with arthritis. Years ago, walking shoes were called orthopedic shoes. But now, walking shoes are stylish and colorful and can make a fashion statement all their own. You can look good and be kind to your feet at the same time.
5 - Hair and makeup are important, too. Create a look that makes you feel good when you look in the mirror, but at the same time, a look you can manage. If arthritis has forced you to change to a more simple hairstyle, consider highlights or hair color to enhance the style. Don't overdo your makeup but wear just enough to give yourself a healthy glow.
Arthritis forces us to reinvent ourselves in many ways. So it is with fashion and arthritis. You may not be able to keep a former look, especially if it was high maintenance, but as Elizabeth Hawkes said, "Dress to please yourself...Forget you are what you wear...Wear what you are."
Source:
The Book of Positive Quotations. Second Edition. Compiled and Arranged by John Cook. Fairview Press.
