Dealing with Endo Belly: Finding Autumn Outfits That Work

Smart Endo
Sep 12, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Oct 3, 2024

If you have endometriosis, you're probably familiar with endo belly — the uncomfortable swelling of your stomach that can make you look like you're pregnant. It can be sore, or just heavy and uncomfortable. On top of that, it can be frustrating when your clothing options suddenly feel limited. Over the years, I’ve had to adapt many of my everyday clothes and evening outfits to accommodate the fact that my lower stomach can be so round that I simply don’t feel comfortable in certain styles. I know it might sound a bit silly, and I shouldn’t be so hard on myself, but it's totally normal to not want to look pregnant when you’re not. More than just the appearance, wearing restrictive clothing when you have endo belly can be very uncomfortable. From personal experience, I’ve learned that if I don’t give my body the extra space it needs, I can feel claustrophobic in my clothes or find it harder to breathe. I’ve even triggered an endo flare-up with excruciating stomach pain — all because of jeans that were too tight.

With all that in mind, I thought why not share some autumn-inspired outfit ideas that work well with endo belly.

Jeans

I recently bought a pair of jeans from Abercrombie and Fitch, and I haven't stopped being a sales rep for them since, not only was the style and cut exactly what I was looking for, but the material was so soft around my stomach. The jeans fit perfectly around my bum and waist, yet still managed to not dig in. They are snug yet loose and soft — which is crucial when your stomach can unexpectedly decide to swell at any moment. If you’ve tried A&F jeans, I’d love to hear if you agree with me, or if I'm the only one! And if you haven’t tried them yet and are looking for a new pair of winter jeans, I highly recommend giving them a shot. Jeans are a staple for autumn, and if they bring you as much comfort and joy as mine did, they could be a great investment.

Goals

Good fit - soft around the waist
Not so long they soak up the rain

Jean Outfit Ideas:

Pair jeans with a baggy jumper to comfortably conceal any endo belly.
Style jeans with boots, a big scarf, and an oversized coat to shift the focus to your outerwear.
Opt for an oversized T-shirt untucked, paired with a smaller jacket to create a relaxed yet flattering silhouette.

Knitted Trousers

Soft, knitted trousers can be a great choice for comfort, thanks to their stretchy waistbands. However, be mindful that some elasticated waistbands can be uncomfortable. In the past, I have tended to avoid trousers like these as I have found that they can highlight my endo belly, but here are some ideas for styling them effectively for Autumn.

Outfit Ideas:

Wear with an untucked shirt and jumper to balance the outfit and conceal any bloating. That first photo is relaxed yet very cool.
Opt for a matching set to keep the look chic and coordinated.

Skirts

The preppy, or "Old Money," look is trending, which means skirts and boots are in. Satin skirts can be tricky as they tend to highlight every lump and bump, but with the right styling, they can work. Pleated skirts, on the other hand, are designed to flare out, making them perfect for hiding an endo belly. Plus, they’re not restrictive and allow for comfort. Long knitted skirts are also fashionable but can be less forgiving, though a matching knit set can look stunning.

Skirt Outfit Ideas:

Long skirts paired with a baggy T-shirt or oversized jumper for comfort.
Pleated skirts for a classic, flattering look.
Matching knit skirt and jumper sets for a cohesive outfit.
A-line midi skirts that offer room and flow.

Dresses

Dresses are a fantastic option for autumn and winter since they don’t need a waistband around the stomach and can be soft and flowing for ultimate comfort. Look for options in darker, warmer tones and thicker materials, which pair beautifully with boots. Plus, you can layer tights and socks for extra warmth during the colder months.