Fashion and lipoedema

Clothing and footwear

When we talk with people with lipoedema, one of the main problems we hear about is difficulties in finding clothing and footwear to fit.    Sadly, many clothing lines do not account for our body shape. Many of us need plus sizes but often the arms are too tight and the waist too loose if the item fits our backsides.

Below are a few tips:

• Take waistbands in; if they cannot be seen, this can be a simple tuck to both sides of the band rather than a fancy alteration
• Elasticated waistbands are more giving
• Know your body shape
• Flared trousers and jeans help to balance out a larger ‘bum’
• Wide legged trousers are a great staple for work
• Maxi and midi dresses can great for covering up our legs
• A-line dresses accentuate smaller waists
• A line jackets often work to accentuate the waist
• Embroidered, printed, and embellished tops draw the eye 'upwards’
• Dropped shoulder tops often have wider arms
• Use colour – find one that brightens your face or mood and wear it
• Use scarves and big funky jewellery to draw the eye to your face.