January 2025 Momentum Wishlist

The Ultimate Guide to Dressing for Weight Fluctuation

We’ve all been there. Whether your weight fluctuation is a new challenge or something you’ve struggled with for years, this month’s training is filled with specific guidance on how to shop for pieces as your weight fluctuates. Yes! There are different strategies for buying depending on whether your weight fluctuates all over or more in one area than another. We’ve also got a different approach if you expect your weight to change in the future or if you aren’t quite sure. So take a look at the training to make sure you are spending your time, energy and money wisely from the get go.

Finished the training and now you’re ready to shop? That’s what this wishlist is for!

Let’s begin with Always Fits Jeans from Good American.

I love this site for so many reasons including choosing a model that wears any desired size to show you how things fit. Remember, just because she shares your size, that doesn’t mean that you and the model have the same body type. So be thoughtful when you purchase. These jeans will fit for a size range thanks to intense stretch capabilities. They don’t stretch out but rather run tighter in the first place. A flare jean is universally flattering (although it may or may not align with your authentic personal style) and a darker color is more desirable if your weight gain is on the bottom.

High Waisted Underwear

If your weight fluctuation impacts your stomach, which is very common, high waisted underwear will make your life much better. Acting like a shaper without the discomfort, a high waisted choice will avoid muffin top and slim out your stomach as it goes up and down. I like an array of brands, but it’s hard to argue with Kim Kardashian’s mastery of undergarments and the pricepoints at Skims.

Fits Every Body from Skims

Things aren’t usually so Kardashian heavy for me, but these women do know curves and business. The Fits Every Body collection from Skims are super soft body con pieces that will keep their shape over time and are at a really reasonable price point. Try something like this underneath your dresses to smooth things out and make you feel sexy without impeding your movement. Or, try this as a house dress (even under a robe) or pajamas- or all three! As your weight fluctuates, it’s important to wear things at home and in bed that make you feel good about how your look.

Stretchy Choices with Strategic Ruching and/or Details

Remember to be thoughtful about what silouettes flatter your shape AND where you gain and loose weight. Then, opt for a stretchy choice that will fit as your weight goes up and down. I love this choice from Marcella NYC (another amazing resource for clothing). A-line skirts are super flattering for most body types and this asymmetrical neckline draws the eye up. Plus the waist ruching is flattering for nearly every body type (except the Diamond shape).

The Right Investment Piece

Living in the PNW means that many of your first impressions take place while your coat is on. So make sure you are elevating your outfit with the right coat. Thinking about weight fluctuation, opt for a coat that works with you as you go up and down, assuming it flatters your frame. An Hourglass, Rectangle or Inverted Triangle will find this success with a wrap coat. A Triangle or Diamond will find it with a cocoon coat.

Draw the eye strategically with accessories

We often focus on what we want people not to see rather than what we’d like them to see. So, think about where you’d like to draw the eye and buy pieces that will do the job for you, regardless of your weight. Your waist may be bigger than it was before, but is it still smaller than your hips and shoulders? A belt that works for your varied sizes is a great choice. Or think about jewelry that draws the eye to your vertical middle for a Diamond shape or to minimize your stomach for any body type. Jewelry that draws the eye up is great for Triangle shaped figures and bold shoes are ideal for an Inverted Triangle. Go crazy!

Opt for stretchy fabrics that fit as your weight fluctuates

You don’t have to feel limited to leggings if your weight fluctuates. Ponte is a stretchy fabric with structure that holds its shape well and offers flexibility as your weight moves up and down. Boden’s ponte fabric is a favorite and a wide leg pant is universally flattering. This pair comes in multiple colors AND multiple lengths including petite and tall. And I’m a super fan of this ponte dress (available in two colors) that also comes in multiple lengths! Plus the buttons draw the eye to your vertical middle and this gives the impression of an hourglass shape for everyone!

Remember Second Hand Options

Lots of retailers are getting into the second hand business. Even Zara has Zara Resell. Check out second hand sites and try some of your favorite brands or retailers, as well. Second hand means you help the planet by reducing your purchases but it also means you save cash, which is ideal when your weight is fluctuating.

Renting is a stellar option, too!

Here’s a favorite choice from Vince Unfold. Renting is a major win as you can rent different sizes as your weight goes up and down.