What I Wear With My Ostomy: Comfort, Confidence, and Style Through the Years
From Low Rise Jeans to Confidence
When I first had surgery, low rise jeans were in style and they were not my friend! I had to figure out how to dress with my new body and my ostomy, and that took time, patience, and a lot of trial and error.
At first I avoided anything fitted or restrictive. I lived in high rise yoga pants, soft fabrics, and looser fits that gave me comfort and space to adjust. But as time went on, I started to realize something important. It’s not about hiding, it’s about feeling confident!
I first shared these thoughts back in 2021 (you can watch that short video here) and since then my style and my confidence have completely evolved.
What I Wear Now
Today my wardrobe is a mix of comfort and confidence. Here’s what I love and what works best for me!
High rise pants and yoga leggings – Still my everyday go-tos! Supportive, flattering, and comfortable for travel or long days.
Fitted dresses – Yes, I wear them now! I’ve learned how to style them so I feel beautiful and secure. Confidence made all the difference!
Bathing suits – I wear them proudly! There are so many cuts and designs now that make me feel good whether I’m by the pool or on the beach.
Bag covers – One of my favorite finds! My friend April Wilson, That Girl With a Bag, makes custom bag covers that match my outfits. I wear them with pants or skirts so just the tip of my bag peeks out, and honestly, they’re adorable!
Spanx or light shapewear – Still a favorite trick when I want a smoother fit under clothes.
Style Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way
Confidence changes everything.
What I once thought I couldn’t wear, I now wear easily because I feel comfortable in my skin and proud of my journey!
Trends come and go, wear what feels like you.
Low rise jeans have even made a comeback, and I’ve met plenty of ostomates who love them! The key is finding the right cut and rise for your body.
Accessories make the difference.
Whether it’s a bag cover, a flowy top, or the right pair of high rise pants, it’s all about balance and feeling put together!
Your body deserves to be celebrated.
You’ve been through so much and you deserve to wear what makes you feel confident, beautiful, and free!
A Style That Fits You
Finding what to wear with an ostomy isn’t about limits, it’s about learning what fits you physically and emotionally.
Over time I’ve realized that the most important thing you can wear is confidence! When you feel good, it shows in everything — your posture, your smile, your energy!
So whether you love yoga pants or fitted dresses, swimsuits or skirts, remember this: your style didn’t end after surgery. It just got stronger!
You May Also Like
How Ostomy Irrigation Gives Me More Freedom – My process for feeling comfortable and in control.
The People Who Got Me Through It – A look back at the first few days after surgery and the support that mattered most.
If this helped you or you know someone adjusting to life with an ostomy, share it with them!
Love,
LA