If you are on the brink of or in the throws of menopause, you have likely experienced a hot flash or two. And, it doesn’t take the hot months of summer to bring them on. Though I have been able to keep mine under control with supplements and diet now, there was a time they plagued me daily. I was forced to alter my wardrobe slightly to accommodate the sudden temperature changes. I’ve compiled a short list of some cool styles for menopause that have helped me keep cool and fashionable.
Understand Your Body
Menopausal and peri-menopausal (the years right before menopause begins) women often get uncomfortable symptoms because estrogen levels are significantly reduced. This causes those extremely rude and untimely temperature changes we call HOT FLASHES. This is a good time to pay attention to your diet and exercise plan. The important thing is to listen to your body and do what you can to be comfortable and healthy. Thankfully, once you come out on the other side of the menopause, things should feel more normal.
Cool Styles for Menopause #1: Learn To Love Layers
Choose lightweight layers that can be removed easily in all types of weather. One thing that was happening to me was I would get a big hot flash and 3 minutes later I would have chills. I always take a jacket with me wherever I go and have on a tank top under my main top. This gives such versatility for being both inside and out. It also looks stylish and as though you are put together. I find cotton the best overall fabric for keeping cool and comfortable.
Cool Styles for Menopause #2: Wear Patterns
Hot flashes induce extreme sweating that can be embarrassing to say the least. Again, layers can help, but what do you do if it comes through anyway? I recommend wearing more patterns, as they tend to hide sweat rings better than solids. Look for clothing that is geared toward the middle-aged woman, such as that at Alfred Dunner clothing. Patterned tops are also easy to layer as you can pair them with a plain cardigan or jacket.
Cool Styles for Menopause #3: Embrace Cropped Pants
It shouldn’t be too difficult to find some form of cropped pant these days. Style diversity has brought everything from capris, mid-thigh shorts, to culottes to the stores. Though, these will obviously be easier to find during summer months, you could still rock them in cooler seasons. Winter might call for a cover up, but you can also choose skirts that allow more air flow below.
Cool Styles for Menopause #4: Active Wear
I know that talking about active wear might actually make you hot, but hear me out! Active wear is designed to be breathable and keep you cool under hot conditions. It’s fair to assume that it could help keep you cool during a hot flash. Furthermore, buying and wearing active wear can also help motivate you to be active. Exercise promotes hormonal balance, healthy attitude, and can assist in easing many other symptoms of menopause.
Menopause doesn’t have to be a time of embarrassment, isolation, and low self-esteem. It’s a beautiful time in a women’s life that should be celebrated and embraced. I believe with a good attitude and some savvy ways to get through it, we can all make this one of the best times of our lives. If you have a fashion or menopause tip, please share!