Written by Lottie Drynan @lottiedrynan
Oh irritable bowel syndrome, what a joy you are. From having to pre-suss-out every public toilet, to sacrificing the latest denim trend because just the thought of a tight pair of jeans would make me look six months pregnant. As someone who’s lived with IBS for the entirety of my adult life; bloating, and worrying about bloating have been a big part of it.
When it comes to my wardrobe, in the past, my choices were limited to two extremes: oversized hoodies and leggings that completely hid my body, or tight silhouettes that I’d spend the day angsting over, dreading the inevitable bloat. For such a long time I would avoid wearing tight clothes in case I got bloated, not realising that wearing tight clothes could actually be a cause for my bloating.
Tight Pant Syndrome
So, fast forward to the moment I learned that there was an actual thing called ‘tight pant syndrome’. And as it turns out, wearing clothes that are tight around your waist can put extra stress and pressure on your gut, making you feel even more bloated. And not just bloated, it can affect our digestive system and the way food passes through. Meaning it can be the cause of bloating’s glamorous siblings; gas, change in bowel movement and discomfort too. It actually makes so much sense right; if there was an elastic band wrapped around an icing bag, the icing’s not going to come out as it should.
Discovering tight pant syndrome was a serious light-bulb moment and was one of the things that inspired me to start my #mybloatedwardrobe series back in 2017 - sharing outfits that were dedicated to making us feel confident and comfortable. Showing that “bloat-friendly” didn’t have to mean hiding our bodies, but instead putting the focus on finding pieces that worked for our ever-changing stomachs instead of against them, and happily stretched and adapted for us throughout the day/weeks/months.
A piece of the puzzle
As a happy long-term customer and now ambassador of Symprove for over six years, I know that it’s about seeing our gut-health as a big ol’ jigsaw puzzle (the annoying kind your grandad whacks out at Christmas and takes forever and a half to solve), and finding the pieces that help put it together.
For me, Symprove is one of the biggest pieces to that puzzle. It helps make my gut feel that bit less sensitive and taking my morning shot is an absolute non-negotiable. But curating a bloat-friendly wardrobe is definitely also up there, which is why I’ve teamed up with Symprove to share my top 7 tips on dressing for a bloat-prone stomach. How to find outfits that not only work for your body but will keep you confident and comfortable, however your body’s feeling that day.
My top 7 tips for a bloat-friendly wardrobe
1. Invest in stretchy underwear that will adapt to your body
Comfort starts from the base layer. Stretchy, breathable underwear allows your body the space it needs when bloating happens without adding to the discomfort. Some of my favourite brands are Stripe and Stare or the seamless full briefs from M&S and F&F, Tesco's.
2. A good pair of anti-chafing shorts and tights will help you feel supported, not constricted
I know what you’re thinking; tights, or any extra layers are the devil. But I promise, if you find the right ones, these pieces will not only help you avoid unnecessary cold and discomfort but will also keep you feeling supported. You know that heavy feeling your stomach gets during a flare-up? It's like a helping hand carrying that.
My top tip: if you can’t find a comfortable option in the regular section, try maternity. Maternity tights and their gorgeous extra stomach-panel have changed my life.
3. Choose pieces that are elasticated at the back, not all the way round
This way, you get the stretch without the tight pressure on your stomach, allowing for comfort and movement. Especially helpful for work so trousers and skirts still look smart.
4. Plissé trousers are a bloated girl's best friend.
Yes, they’re elasticated all the way around, but the soft stretch is incredibly comfortable, adapting to your body without feeling restrictive. Love them in summer, love them all year round, especially in leopard print!
5. Smock, tea, and shirred dresses are your second-best friends
These styles are flowy, versatile, easy to chuck on and most importantly - comfortable AF! They’re my absolute go-to for bloated days and will give you all the room, even for that under-boob bloat (don’t tell me I’m the only one).
6. Find a decent pair of leggings that will serve you, even on your most bloated days
Look for high-quality leggings with a soft, stretchy waistband that won’t dig into your waist but still give you the support you need. And honestly, they don’t have to cost the world. Lulu Lemon Aligns were always my fave until I discovered the magic that are the CRZ Butterluxe via Amazon. £30ish and WOW - you’re welcome.
7. Remember: bloat-friendly doesn’t mean having to hide your stomach
Wear what makes you feel good, whether that’s a bodycon dress, an elastic two-piece or a tracksuit. Confidence comes from comfort, so don’t feel like you need to conceal your body—just dress for how you feel best! And if they ask when you’re due, at least make them give up their seat on the tube.
Head to my Instagram for examples of each point here and more tips on dressing for bloat-friendly comfort and confidence @lottiedrynan.
In the meantime, dig into the science behind bloating.
