Ever since I started my Indianapolis Image Consultant practice nearly 11 years ago, I have found that clients typically reach out when they have already lost weight, are currently losing weight, or want to lose weight. They often fret about how to still dress nicely and not just wear a few outfits on repeat.
If you’ve met a weight loss goal — congratulations! I know it is hard, and I commend you. Reward yourself!!
But it can truly be a conundrum. I understand 100 percent since my weight fluctuates. The issue doesn’t go away once you have lost the weight because then you decide what clothing to keep, what to alter, and what to donate.
More and more people
are successful in losing weight, thanks to new drugs such as Ozempic, approved for Type 2 diabetes use, and Wegovy, approved for weight management. So this issue of losing weight and maintaining it is now commonplace in our society.
Photo by Julia Larson
Weight Loss Wardrobe Tips from Your Indianapolis Image Consultant
As an image consultant, I have some advice for those who fit into any of these categories!
- As you lose weight, it’s true that you will start to need some clothing items that fit like basic jeans, pants, dresses, and tops. Jackets you can often still use as you lose weight because you can use a belt to cinch them. But if they get extremely large on you, it’s time to donate them.
- Stick to a basic color group that will coordinate with many items, such as black, navy, browns, and cream. These colors will coordinate with other neutrals. Then spice them up with accessories such as jewelry, purses, and shoes.
- Rotate these basics so it’s not that noticeable that your wardrobe is rather limited. I recommend getting a color analysis if you’ve never had one to discover the colors that make you shine. It is also a good diversion for you as you lose weight, to not focus so much on the items you don’t yet have.
- Consider buying clothing at consignment stores during this transitional time. There are several in our area, and I recommend buying quality clothing from brands you recognize, as well as some fun items you can try.
- This is the time to buy some new jewelry and even accessories such as purses and shoes as you lose weight. (Although I have learned that sometimes, as you lose weight, your shoe size changes!)
- Try not to focus 100 percent on your weight loss progress. Learn a new hobby, read a book, and see friends. You don’t want to become obsessed with what you’re doing.
- In terms of clothes to buy as you lose weight, some items are more versatile. For example, classic lines can be easily altered. Cloth with set-in waists and pleats can be very hard to alter to fit as you become smaller.
- Beware of spending too much money on alterations. If a garment costs more than $30-40 to alter, walk away!
- Guys, this is especially true with blazers. It is extremely expensive to alter the shoulders in a jacket. Sometimes the sides can be altered, sometimes not. It would be easier to buy a jacket that fits your current size at a consignment store.
- Also, remember to reward yourself for weight loss with something small, such as a new print or a fun event that is not related to your wardrobe or eating!
Navigate Your Journey with an Indianapolis Image Consultant
I can help you navigate weight loss and your style! Contact me at beth@bethdivinestyle.com to schedule an Indianapolis Image Consultant appointment.
Keep it sassy, Indy.
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Personal Image Consultant
