Ostomy Fashion Tips: Comfort & Confidence

Living with an ostomy doesn’t mean giving up on certain outfit styles and looks. In fact, chances are that you can wear what you wore prior to your surgery. That being said, there are a few new factors to be mindful of when selecting outfits. 
 
In this blog we will explore different ideas and guidelines to follow that will help you feel comfortable, confident, and supported. 
 
While we can provide general tips for ostomates, both old and new, not every piece of clothing is cut from the same cloth. Plenty of trial and error is key to finding a clothing lineup that is tailored to your unique wants and needs. 

Start with what you already have

Admittedly, while it is always enjoyable to do a little retail therapy, we would encourage starting the search in your own closet. As mentioned earlier, much of what you wore prior to your surgery may still be a great option! This is also a great opportunity to bring new light to otherwise forgotten pieces. 

General Tips

Comfort

• High-waisted: High-waisted pieces allow you to proactively add both comfort and discreteness to your outfit. This is especially true for ostomates with a stoma close to the waist/beltline.
• Stretch fabrics: Stretch fabrics can reduce pulling, overall increasing comfort. 
• Pouch management: Proper pouch management is essential to the comfort of certain items of clothing. If you find pouch changes stressful, read our blog about how to reduce anxiety during pouch changes! 

Concealment

• Layering: A classic technique in breaking up your silhouette can also help hide your pouch. Not to mention, the added warmth for the colder months. 
• Patterns: Patterns can help in concealing your pouch while also adding more personality to your outfit. The possibilities are endless with patterns!
• Size-up: While not everyone's cup of tea, sizing-up can provide added comfort in addition to also hiding your pouch better. 
  
  

Made for the Occasion: Ostomy-Specific Clothing

There are many options for ostomy support garments like wraps, bands, and belts. These items can provide lots of benefits to your outfit flexibility: 

• Security and comfort: That extra added assurance can form a solid foundation for you to build your outfits around. This can open the door to more outfit and style options.
• Discreet covers: Ostomy support garments are specifically made with concealment in mind. They can be quick and easy options when building outfits that do not inherently provide much concealment.
• Activity-focused: Athletic support garments are a must when it comes to participating in physical activities. 

Corsinel® (By Tytex®) is tailor-made to support ostomates by providing comfort and security for their active lifestyles. Shop Corsinel® today!

Conclusion: Clothing Made Easy