How to navigate the menopause in style

For much of our lives the topic of Menopause, and how to cope with it, has been kept under wraps. A discussion suitable for quiet conversations between female friends but never to be uttered in front of an audience and god forbid it be mentioned in front of men.

Until recently as more and more high profile figures such as Davina McCall have come forward to discuss their personal experiences in depth.

Around eight in 10 women will experience symptoms of menopause in their lifetime. Dealing with hot flushes, and deciding whether to start HRT, are things most women expect to have to think about, but one thing that’s slightly unexpected is how the menopause can force you to change your entire wardrobe.

Appearance may not sound like the biggest problem, but throw a style identity crisis into the hormonal chaos of the menopause and lots of women find themselves in despair.

Leigh Unwin made a mark on the female fashion industry with her brand, The Style Attic, which showcases affordable fashion for women of all ages, shapes & sizes.

After several years of speaking with women to identify their struggles and what they really care about when it comes to clothes, Leigh is shedding light on how to transition your style when going through ‘the change’.

She said, “First of all, it’s important to try to enjoy the process of redefining your style.”

Think back to your younger years of micro mini skirts and thigh high boots, when the time came for the skirts that, let’s face it resembled more of a belt, to retire to the back of the wardrobe, it was hard not to feel a slight sense of relief.

That same sense of relief can come from switching your style up once again, this time to prioritise comfort and practicality.

Leigh proclaims her number one tip to be wearing lots of light layers. She said, “This makes life so much easier when the inevitable hot flushes come. I would suggest starting with a vest and adding layers from there. In summer, linen shirts and light kimonos are great for this, in winter add a light cardigan or jumper before reaching for anything heavier. A lightweight knitted poncho is great for this!”

Opting for looser or elasticated waistbands is another one of Leigh’s top tips. Not only does this mean you’ll be comfortable all day long, but it also means that your wardrobe can see you through any fluctuations in weight caused by hormones.

Leigh said, “Elasticated waistbands can be both fashionable and practical, in fact my favourite pair of trousers ever, have an elasticated waist which makes them so wearable, our ‘Magic Pants’ are my go to trouser, always!”

The Style Attics’ ‘Magic Pants’ are an elasticated trouser which come in a variety of patterns and materials. For winter, the wet look style makes a great, and much comfier, alternative to leather trousers which allows women to feel fashion forward and confident.

In keeping with the season, Leigh also talks about the importance of investing in a good coat.

She said, “My favourite thing about winter is that, if you have a nice coat, who cares what you’re wearing underneath! This means that you can throw on your comfiest outfit, regardless of what it looks like, just throw a coat over the top and you’re good to go!”

She continued, “I’d always suggest to size up, which allows you to wear layers underneath, when you’re constantly switching from boiling to freezing which I know is considered a lifesaver by a lot of our customers at The Style Attic!”

Leigh shares her final piece of advice to anyone going through the change, “Ultimately, you should use this time to reevaluate what makes you feel good! Don’t take your wardrobe too seriously, fashion should be fun so wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and happy!”

“There is a joy to be found in redefining your style, no matter the reason, make sure to keep hold of that.”

Navigating the menopause can be confusing, but navigating your style shouldn’t be. If you’re still not sure, try to find the confidence to ask the shop advisors in your favourite store, with so many women feeling the same way, you won’t be the first to do so.