Menopause can bring many changes, and one area many of us notice is the “menopause middle.” Our bodies shift, and what used to fit comfortably might not feel as flattering anymore. But there are style strategies to help us look and feel our best, emphasizing confidence without the need to cover up completely. Here are my top 7 tips to keep your wardrobe working for you:

1. Embrace Monochromatic Dressing

Creating a Column of Color – where your top and bottom are in the same shade – gives a streamlined look that elongates your body. And no, it doesn’t always have to be black! Earthy tones, jewel colors, and soft neutrals can all create the same effect. This look works wonders for minimizing the waist area and creating an overall sleek silhouette.

2. Layer with a Cardigan or Blazer/Jacket

Adding a longer-length cardigan or blazer is a quick trick for camouflaging the midsection. These pieces create vertical lines down the front, drawing the eye up and down rather than side to side. Look for tailored pieces with soft structure, like princess seams, darts, or even a subtle peplum, which can add shape without clinging. Avoid boxy styles that hide your shape – we want enhancement, not extra volume. If you’re petite, be sure to look for petite sizing in long cardigans to get the proportions right.  This JCrew sweater comes in Petite (and is on big sale).

Add a cardigan or jacket over a Column of Color — or,  another favorite trick is to coordinate the color/tone of the cardigan/jacket to the top you wear under it.

3. Choose High or Mid-Rise Jeans and Pants

Mid- or high-rise pants offer natural tummy control, helping create a smoother line through the waist. Fabrics with a bit of stretch and semi-structured fits can add comfort and help you feel held in without being too tight. Avoid pleated pants and, when in doubt, pair them with a shorter or tucked top instead of a long tunic, which can add more volume than you may want. Wit and Wisdom makes a great line of pants with ‘Ab’solution powermesh panels that comfortably mold and hold.

Important Note on Rises: Don’t rely on online descriptions! Terms like “high-rise” and “mid-rise” can be misleading because your ideal rise depends entirely on your vertical body type – whether you’re short-waisted, long-waisted, or balanced. The key is to know your best rise measurement and look at the actual rise number, not just the label. It’s all relative!

4. Try Wrap Dresses and Tops

A wrap dress or top, especialy with a V-neckline is a game-changer for creating balance and shape. The V-neck draws the eye upward, and the wrap style gently defines the waist without clinging. These pieces are flattering, comfortable, and don’t need to be tucked in, making them a great choice…and this season they are easy to find too. Here are some more options.

5. Look for Ruching and Gathering

Tops and dresses with ruching or gathers are forgiving and add softness without bulk. These details provide shape while drawing attention away from the midsection. They’re especially helpful for adding visual interest and making you feel pulled together without anything feeling too fitted. This dress combines wrap details, gathering, and drapey sleeves and comes in many colors. 

6. Be Mindful of Fabric Choices

Some fabrics are simply more forgiving than others. Lightweight textures, subtle patterns, and fabrics that gently skim your body (rather than cling) are all great choices. Steer clear of clingy jerseys, and look instead for subtle prints or vertical elements, like stripes and seaming, which can elongate the body and add a polished look.

7. Consider Modern Shapewear – Especially for Special Occasions

Today’s shapewear has come a long way – it’s now comfortable enough to wear daily without feeling restrictive. Look for high-waisted briefs or shorts that smooth without squeezing. These new designs provide gentle support under pants, skirts, and even jeans, giving you a sleek silhouette with zero discomfort.  These and these are my favorite shorts with pants (available in high waist and regular).  I also have this bodysuit for some dresses.