Style in the Shift
Reflections on perimenopause, personal style, and why getting dressed suddenly feels different
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how we get dressed when everything starts to feel… different.
Over the past few months, I’ve found myself quietly navigating the early signs of perimenopause — and it’s brought up all kinds of feelings, especially around style. I’ve always believed in the power of a good outfit. That feeling when you put something on and feel like yourself again — strong, capable, a little more in control. But when your body starts changing and the clothes you’ve always reached for suddenly don’t feel right, it can throw you. I know I’m not alone in that.
The DMs I’ve received lately have been so real.
“Nothing fits like it used to.”
“I feel self-conscious about my belly now.”
“I just want clothes that feel good — not tight, not itchy, not fussy.”
“I’m too hot, then freezing… and I still need to look presentable for work.”
“I feel like I’ve lost my sense of style completely.”
“I’m not in my 30s anymore, but I’m not ready to disappear either.”
There’s a lot no one tells you about this stage of life — the bloating, the weight shifts, the mood swings, the unpredictable body temperature, the discomfort, the low energy. But what’s really struck me is how many women feel like they’re losing touch with their identity, simply because getting dressed has become harder than it used to be. It’s no longer just about style — it’s about confidence, comfort, and feeling seen.
And here’s what I know for sure: we don’t have to settle for feeling ‘meh’ for the next 15 years.
I’ve been quietly working through what it means to get dressed well during this shift — not just practically, but emotionally too. What does it look like to feel stylish when your body is changing? What does comfort really mean when you’re not willing to give up on style altogether? And how do we get back to a place where getting dressed feels good again?
I’ll be sharing more soon. For now, I just wanted to say: if you’ve been feeling any of this, I see you. You’re not alone — and you definitely haven’t lost your style.
I’d love to hear from you…
This isn’t just about my story — it’s about ours. I’m opening up the chat function here on Substack so we have a space to connect. Whether you’re looking for advice, want to share what’s been working for you, need help finding a bra that doesn’t dig in, or just fancy a little style talk — truly, anything goes.
This is a space to be real, supportive, and maybe even have a laugh about the chaos of it all. I’d love to hear how you’re navigating style during this season. Come say hi!
Julia x
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For more daily style inspiration, you can also follow along on my other platforms:
• Indyx - where I track what I’m wearing & what’s in my wardrobe
• Instagram - where I share all my daily outfits
• Pinterest - where I pin things I love (& my outfits too!)
• LTK - where I save all the outfit links & sizing details