Navigating Fashion with Endometriosis: A Guide to Dressing for Comfort

As a 35-year-old woman living with endometriosis, I’ve come to understand that getting dressed up can be one of the most daunting experiences. It’s not just about finding something that looks good — it’s about finding something that fits, feels comfortable, and doesn’t amplify the pain or discomfort that so often comes with this chronic condition.

Endometriosis, for those who don’t know, is a painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus starts growing outside it, causing inflammation, intense pain, bloating, and sometimes fatigue. And while there’s no way to predict how my body will feel on any given day, one thing is certain: what may fit and feel fine on Monday could be a complete nightmare to wear by Friday.

The Rollercoaster of Dressing Up

One of the biggest challenges I face when getting dressed is dealing with my fluctuating body. On some days, I might feel good — maybe even confident — in a cute outfit. Then, the next day, bloating hits, or I experience a sudden flare-up of pain, and those same clothes suddenly become the most uncomfortable things I own.

This is particularly true for those moments when I need to get dressed for a special occasion — whether it's a wedding, a night out, or even just a dinner with friends. The outfit that looked perfect when I first bought it now feels tight, unflattering, or downright painful. My stomach can swell and become tender, and the thought of wearing something that hugs my midsection becomes unbearable.

It’s not just about formal occasions, either. The frustration spills over into everyday life too. Some mornings, I feel great and can wear anything I want. But by afternoon, bloating might set in, or a dull ache might start in my lower abdomen, making my go-to outfits feel like a burden.

The Struggle Is Real: Finding Comfort Without Sacrificing Style

Over time, I’ve learned a few tricks for making the process of getting dressed a little less stressful. The goal isn’t just to look good — it’s about feeling comfortable in my own skin and finding outfits that work with my body, not against it. Here are the wardrobe strategies I’ve adopted that make a huge difference:

Wrap Dresses: The Ultimate Comfort Solution

Wrap dresses have truly become my go-to when it comes to comfort and style. The design, which ties at the waist, allows me to adjust the fit to suit my body on any given day. This makes it ideal for when my abdomen is feeling bloated or sensitive, as it offers a relaxed yet flattering fit without constricting. Whether I’m heading out for a night on the town or attending a more casual event, a wrap dress provides the perfect balance of freedom and elegance. The soft fabrics, like jersey or silk, drape beautifully without clinging to the body, creating a graceful silhouette while ensuring comfort all day or night long.

A-Line Dresses: Flattering and Forgiving

The A-line dress is another go-to style that works wonders when I’m feeling bloated or dealing with pain. It gently flares out from the waist, which gives me ample space around my stomach while still maintaining a shape that is both stylish and flattering. I no longer have to worry about sucking in my stomach or dealing with uncomfortable tightness. The added bonus is that A-line dresses are incredibly versatile, so I can dress them up or down depending on the occasion.

Fit-and-Flare Dresses: A Balanced Look

I love a fit-and-flare dress for days when I need a little more structure but don’t want anything too tight. These dresses hug the torso, creating an elegant shape, but then flare out into a skirt, offering ample room for comfort. I’ve found that dresses with soft waistbands or a bit of stretch are the most comfortable — the last thing I want is a waistband digging into my stomach during a flare-up. These dresses help me look put together while giving me the flexibility I need to move comfortably.

Elasticated Waistbands: Flexibility and Comfort

When I’m feeling especially bloated, I turn to outfits with elasticated waistbands. These dresses, made from stretchy fabrics, provide the flexibility to adjust the fit to my body’s needs. There's nothing worse than being confined by a tight waistband when I’m already in discomfort, and having the ability to loosen or tighten my clothing as needed has been a total game changer. The stretch and give of an elasticated waistband offer me both comfort and ease, allowing me to enjoy the occasion without worrying about how my clothes are fitting.

Everyday Outfits: The Subtle Struggles

It’s not just about getting dressed for big occasions — even my everyday outfits require careful thought. Some mornings, my jeans feel perfect, but by midday, I can feel my waistband digging into my stomach, and the pressure is unbearable. So, I’ve found a few solutions that help:

Comfortable and Stylish Essentials: Leggings & Wide Leg Trousers

When it comes to everyday outfits, leggings and wide-leg trousers have become my go-to staples. The stretchy fabric of leggings offers both comfort and flexibility, while wide-leg trousers provide a relaxed yet polished look. Both styles have an elastic waistband, allowing me to adjust them easily for comfort throughout the day. Whether I’m working from home, running errands, or heading out for a casual outing, these pieces offer the perfect balance of style and ease, without compromising on comfort. They allow me to move freely, and best of all, they don’t add any unnecessary pressure to my abdomen, which is a must when living with endometriosis.

Layering for Flexibility: I love incorporating oversized cardigans and blazers into my wardrobe for an added layer of flexibility. These pieces are perfect for days when I need a little extra coverage or when I feel like my outfit is getting too tight or uncomfortable. The relaxed fit of oversized cardigans and blazers allows me to move freely, and I can easily adjust them throughout the day, whether I need to take the edge off the chill or loosen up when I’m feeling bloated or warm. They’re stylish, comfortable, and offer that perfect balance of practicality and chic.

Comfortable Shoes: Living in Trainers and Sliders

When pain flares up, it’s not just my body that needs relief — my feet do too. Heels are the last thing I want to be wearing during a flare, so I live in trainers and sliders instead. These shoes provide the support I need, giving me all-day comfort without the added pressure or discomfort of heels. Whether I’m running errands or heading to a casual event, I know my feet are taken care of, allowing me to focus on feeling my best, no matter what the day brings.

Living with endometriosis means that dressing up or getting dressed every day can be a bit of a puzzle. But I’ve learned that with a little planning, I don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. The right dress, fabric, or cut can make all the difference in how I feel, whether it’s for a special occasion or just a regular day. By focusing on fit, fabric, and flexibility, I’ve been able to curate a wardrobe that helps me manage my endometriosis while still feeling confident and stylish.

So, the next time you’re getting dressed and feeling frustrated with your wardrobe, remember — comfort doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. With a little thought and the right choices, you can rock any look, no matter how your body feels.

by Lauren Khan