After my surgery I found it very hard to dress. I struggled to figure out what was right for me to wear.
I felt like nothing suited me. Anything that was loose fitting made me feel like I was wearing a tent. Anything that was fitted, made me self-conscious about the pouch, that was just my fear. In addition, I still wasn't feeling well enough to go shopping for new clothes.
Clearing out my closet
Every time I opened my closet my heart would sink looking at all these gorgeous clothes that I had gathered over the years, some having special meanings, especially the items passed down to me from my mom and I was sad at the thought of not being able to wear them again.
Getting dressed became a challenge because I would be looking at what I didn't feel comfortable wearing. Eventually I decided it was time to take control of the situation, and go through my closet.
I have heard many times before that you should clear out your closet once a year and throw out anything that you haven't worn in two years. I have never done this! As a result this seemed like a huge task, so I needed to make it fun.
Make a fashion show out of it
Get a couple of friends, family, anyone whose opinion you would trust and give them a fashion show.
It will make it more fun having a support team there. Having a change like this to your body can make you think it is noticeable, but your support team will be honest with you and most of the time it isn't noticeable at all.
Try everything on and split into 'keep' and 'donate' piles, but don't throw your good 'get-rid' clothes out; I have a very good use for them.
Out With The Old & In With The New
Now there is one obvious thing you need when revamping your closet – money! The saying is; 'one woman's rubbish is another woman's treasure,' and I definitely think this is true of clothes.
Since having a colostomy, I am suddenly looking at clothes that I wouldn't have worn before.
Wardrobe tips
Patterns can help to conceal bumps and movement.
Ruching can also conceal and can be very flattering.
Camisoles or tight-fitting undershirts can help hold the pouch against your body and help with discretion.
High waisted jeans or leggings can act as a protective layer and also help you to be discrete.
One final piece of advice
The biggest piece of advice I think I can give when it comes to coping after surgery is – be kind to yourself. Your body (as well as your heart) has been through a lot and you need to give yourself time to adjust.
