Many women in the midst of weight loss or after they’ve achieved their weight loss goals have another hurdle to overcome—how to dress their new evolved bodies. Acceptance of the change is key. Because even though overweight women desire weight loss, it takes their minds some time to catch up with their new body. It’s different after all, and any change, even positive ones, can be uncomfortable because it is so unfamiliar. Often women who have battled with their weight have to then contend with the power of their negative self talk which can keep them hostage in a style and image rut.
Getting command over your mind and building positive self esteem and confidence is so critical to ensuring you keep your weight off. Do things that inspire, boost you up and that help you rediscover the woman you used to be. If you’ve always struggled with your weight, now is the time to come to terms with why. If you don’t do this very necessary work, all your hard work may be for naught. Become the master of your mind and harness your will so it serves you in the midst of your transformation.
These tips below are meant to provide women like you who have lost weight, inspiration, empowerment, encouragement and information, so you can create a new image based on the woman you are evolving into. This is a celebration of your remarkable achievement and your amazing new body. Are you ready for the spotlight to shine on magnificent you? Read on!
1. Often it helps to take small steps that have an immediate and powerful impact. One such step is investing in a great hair cut or color. Nothing gives a woman an instant boost than her crowning glory – her hair! Whether you decide to change the color, style, get augments –just make sure the style is realistic to maintain and in sync with your persona. A new hair cut can liberate you and give you much needed momentum to keep going on your weight loss journey or celebrate the achievement of your goal with a new look. Have fun and be bold. Just be sure you put your hair in very skilled hands.
2. For many women, the fight to attain their perceived ideal weight puts a strain on their self image. They may let their image go. And what happens? They look like they don’t give thought or care to their look, when they really do care. Many hang on to their old clothing for dear life because of emotional attachments that can be so strong that they can’t see how these items are no longer appropriate. Part of letting go of the extra pounds is also letting go of the emotional baggage that may have contributed to your weight gain in the first place! You’re in a different place, a different life stage, if you will. Be happy, comfortable and confident with the person and in the body you are RIGHT NOW. ‘See’ yourself as you truly are and dress THAT body. Let go of the old, outdated images of yourself. It may help to take photos at varying stages of your journey. In my work with women as an image consultant, often I observe that they only truly see themselves when they take a photo. I can’t tell you how many times women have said to me, “I had no idea this (FILL IN THE BLANK) was so unflattering on me,” after seeing themselves in a photo. It can be a huge ‘aha’ moment. I encourage you to do this so you can keep up with your changing body and see it objectively so you dress it in ways that make you look beautiful. Get rid of all those oversized clothes that no longer fit.
3. So let’s face facts: the first is learning to embrace your stature and the figure and size you are now. The second is that in all likelihood you will need to alter your clothes, especially if you’re still in the midst of weight loss. You don’t have to resort to your overly big, baggy clothes—if there are items that can be salvaged, do so with the help of your new best friend—your tailor. As you go through the varying stages of your weight loss, consider whether to get an item tailored so it fits and flatters you better. Use belts to cinch where appropriate. As you buy new clothing, look for items with stretch so that as you lose weight they will be more forgiving. The lesson: we want you to look great at every stage without breaking the bank. This is not the time to splurge on big ticket items, so be smart with your new clothing choices. Stock up on moderately priced basics which are versatile and allow you to mix and match in myriad ways. When you get to your ideal weight you can then jazz up your wardrobe with more creative pieces and silhouettes.
4. Start paying more attention to your posture. So many of us walk, sit and stand with a slouch or slump to our shoulders and back. One of the things that immediately gives a woman presence and a look of confidence is an erect posture with a straight strong shoulder line. Standing erect not only makes you look poised but it also makes you look slimmer and taller. Looking confident will help you FEEL confident, regardless of your size.
Look for Part Two of this feature in the next few days.
Copyright Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management. Author: Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting it: Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style available on Amazon