Flatter Your Shape: Midlife Styling Secrets

Embracing the Menopause Tummy: Kind Styling for Your Changing Body

cjstylist talking to a client with open laptop

Let’s talk about something many of us experience but don’t always feel comfortable admitting — the menopause tummy. That little extra softness around the middle that seems to arrive out of nowhere, and no matter what we do, it likes to stick around.

If you’ve found yourself sighing in the mirror or tugging at your clothes, please know this: you’re not alone, and there is nothing wrong with your body. It’s simply evolving.

As a petite woman in my 60s who works with midlife women every day, I get it. It’s frustrating when your favourite outfits don’t sit quite right anymore. But this stage of life is not the end of style — in fact, it can be a beautiful new beginning.

Why Does the Menopause Tummy Happen?

During menopause, our oestrogen levels drop, which changes how our bodies store fat — often around the waistline. Combine this with a slowing metabolism, a bit more stress, and the natural ageing process, and it’s no wonder we notice changes in our shape.

But here’s the thing: your body is not the problem. The problem is the pressure to stay looking the same forever. Let’s let that go, shall we?

Instead, let’s focus on dressing in a way that makes you feel confident, stylish, and comfortable — and yes, that includes giving a little grace to your tummy.

Styling Tips for the Menopause Tummy (Especially for Petites!)

As petite women, we already have to think carefully about proportion. Add a little tummy into the mix, and suddenly some old favourites just don’t work. But that’s no reason to give up on great style.

Here are my favourite kind and clever styling tips to help you feel good in your clothes again:

1. Choose Soft, Skimming Fabrics

Avoid stiff or clingy materials. Instead, go for fabrics that gently drape over the body like soft jersey, fluid crepe, or lightweight knits. These fabrics don’t cling to the tummy — they float over it.

Check out this article on fabrics

2. Embrace a Slightly Raised Waist

Empire-line dresses or tops with a waist just under the bust draw the eye upward and define your shape beautifully. This is especially flattering on petites, as it creates the illusion of longer legs too.

3. Look for Ruching and Wrapping

Ruching (a bit of gentle gathering) or a wrap-style top helps to disguise the tummy while adding texture and shape. It keeps the eye moving and creates a flattering silhouette without adding bulk.

4. Layer Lightly

Add soft layers like a longline cardigan, a duster coat, or a lightweight jacket. This creates vertical lines that elongate the body and gently camouflage the middle — without overwhelming a petite frame.

5. Choose the Right Waistbands

Skip anything that digs in or cuts across your tummy. Look for mid-rise trousers with a flat front, or pull-on styles with a wide, stretchy waistband. Comfort and style can go hand in hand.

6. Play with Prints and Colour

Wearing prints or darker colours around the tummy can help to disguise it — but this doesn’t mean you have to live in black! Try subtle prints, colour-blocking, or designs that keep interest around the neckline, sleeves, or hem instead.

Read this article about fabrics and texture

7. Highlight What You Love

Not every outfit needs to focus on the tummy. Draw attention to your best features — whether that’s your legs, your neckline, your arms, or your smile. A great V-neck or a shorter hemline can shift the focus completely.

8. Use Accessories to Draw the Eye Elsewhere

Accessories are your best friend here! Statement earrings, a colourful scarf, or a striking necklace can all bring the focus upward to your face. A bold shoe or a fun bag does the same for your lower half — keeping attention moving and full of personality.

Belts can be flattering too — especially if worn just under the bust rather than at the waist. It’s all about balance, proportion, and creating soft lines.

Be Gentle With Yourself

There is no perfect body — and there never was. Your tummy has held laughter, meals shared with loved ones, maybe children or grandchildren, and the rhythm of a full, fabulous life.

So rather than hiding or criticising this part of yourself, try a little kindness. The most stylish women aren’t necessarily the slimmest — they’re the ones who dress with confidence and authenticity.

If you’d love a helping hand with discovering what styles suit your shape now — without having to trawl through shops or guess what works — I’m here for you.

Let Me Help You Feel Confident in Your Clothes Again

I work with women just like you — midlife, petite, stylish, and ready to feel good again.

My online colour and style sessions are personal, practical, and encouraging. Whether you're not sure what to wear anymore or feel stuck in a rut, I’ll guide you to wardrobe choices that suit your shape, lifestyle and personality — and most of all, feel like you.

Ready to start feeling good in your clothes again?  Click here to learn more and book a session.

Let’s make this chapter of life your most stylish yet.

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With warmth, 

Christine x